Razz Poker

Razz is known in poker circles as the most frustrating poker variant around! The game requires that players, contrary to other variants, make the worst possible poker hand they can!

Razz has gained itself quite a steady following since it was introduced into professional circles many years ago, and many players familiarize themselves with this game if only to become proficient in H.O.R.S.E poker – a type of poker that is made up five different games, Razz being one of them.

History of Razz Poker:

Razz Poker was first introduced as a poker variant in the World Series of Poker in 1973, when it was won by Sam Angel. Since then, Razz has appeared in most WSOP tournaments, although it became hugely popular during the 2004 event and has since attracted quite a cult following.

Razz Poker Hand Rankings

The following are considered the best hands in Razz Poker. Remember – the objective is to make the lowest hand possible!

Lowest High Card: Known as the Wheel and made up of Ace, 2, 3, 4 and 5.

Second Lowest High Card: If more than one player in the game of Razz has the same high card, the next highest cards are compared. For example, a player with an Ace, 2, 3, 5 and 6 will lose to a player who has an Ace, 2, 3, 4 and 6.

One Pair: A very rare occurrence may see a player win with a pair in Razz, although this is more likely to happen in London Lowball due to the slight rule differences.

How to Play

The Third Street

• The dealer deals two cards face down to each player.
• Another card is dealt face up.
• The player with the highest cards bets half the low limit bet, known as ‘bringing in’. Raising entails betting the entire low limit bet.
• The game is played clockwise around the table with players folding, raising or calling.
• Bets and raises are equal to the low limit bet size.

Fourth Street

• A fourth card is dealt to each player.
• The player with the lowest hand folds, checks or bets.
• The game is played clockwise around the table.
• Bets and raises are equal to the low limit bet size.

Fifth Street

• A fifth card is dealt to each player.
• Play proceeds as in previous rounds.
• Bets and raises must equal the high limit bet size.

Sixth Street

• A sixth card is dealt to each player.
• Play proceeds as in previous rounds.
• Bets and raises must equal the high limit bet size.

Seventh Street

• A final card is dealt to each player.
• Play proceeds as in previous rounds.
• Bets and raises must equal the high limit bet size.

The Showdown

• Players take it in turns to show their hands. The player with the lowest ranking poker hand takes the pot.

Razz Poker Tips and Strategies

• The best starting hand in Razz Poker is A, 2, 3, while any three cards (excluding pairs) between Ace and five are generally good starting hands.
• Watching the other players’ upcards can tell one a lot about the state of their hands and is considered an important strategy in Razz Poker.
• Looking for ways to steal the ante is important, especially in higher up limits.

Conclusion

Razz is certainly a poker variant with a twist and is therefore found a place for itself in niche circles of the game. Basing its rules on regular Seven Card Stud Poker, Razz brings players hours of entertainment through its fast pace and interesting rules.