Written by In the world of high-stakes poker, trends come and go but every now and then, a new variant captures the spotlight and refuses to let go. Short Deck Poker, also known as 6+ Hold’em, is one such sensation. With its action-packed gameplay, higher variance, and a splash of unpredictability DopeBox, Short Deck has earned its place alongside Texas Hold’em and Omaha as a must-play for any serious poker fan.
Whether you’re new to poker or a seasoned grinder looking for a fresh challenge, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Short Deck Poker rules, gameplay, and strategy essentials.
What Is Short Deck Poker?
Short Deck Poker is a variation of Texas Hold’em that uses a 36-card deck instead of the traditional 52-card deck. The twist? All the 2s through 5s are removed, leaving cards 6 through Ace in play.
This simple change drastically alters the game’s dynamics, leading to more aggressive action, frequent big hands, and a fascinating shift in strategy.
Key Differences from Texas Hold’em
Before diving into the rules, here’s a quick comparison of Short Deck Poker and traditional Texas Hold’em:
| Feature | Texas Hold’em | Short Deck Poker |
|---|---|---|
| Deck Size | 52 cards | 36 cards |
| Cards Removed | None | 2s, 3s, 4s, 5s |
| Hand Rankings | Standard | Adjusted |
| Play Style | Varied | Aggressive & Swingy |
How to Play Short Deck Poker
1. The Setup
- Uses a 36-card deck (6s through Aces).
- Usually played with 6 players, though 7- or 8-handed games are possible.
- The button and blinds structure is often replaced with an ante-only structure to encourage action.
2. The Deal
- Each player is dealt two private hole cards.
- Five community cards are dealt face-up in three stages: the flop (3 cards), the turn (1 card), and the river (1 card).
- Betting rounds occur pre-flop, post-flop, post-turn, and post-river—just like in Texas Hold’em.
Short Deck Poker Hand Rankings
Because the deck is smaller, the odds of certain hands change, which in turn changes the ranking of poker hands. Here’s the adjusted order from strongest to weakest (most commonly used variant):
- Royal Flush
- Straight Flush
- Four of a Kind
- Flush
- Full House
- Three of a Kind
- Straight
- Two Pair
- One Pair
- High Card
Note:
- In Short Deck, a Flush beats a Full House. This is because with fewer cards of each suit, flushes are harder to hit.
- Aces can still be high or low when making a straight. So A-6-7-8-9 is a valid straight, as is 10-J-Q-K-A.
Basic Strategy Tips
Short Deck Poker is a game of big swings and fast action, but that doesn’t mean you should play recklessly. Here are a few strategic tips to help you thrive:
1. Value Pocket Pairs More
With fewer cards in the deck, you’re more likely to hit sets and full houses. Medium and high pocket pairs hold more value than in Texas Hold’em.
2. Watch Out for Flush Draws
Flushes are harder to make, and they’re more powerful. Be cautious when chasing a flush—it’s harder to complete, and others will recognize its value.
3. Adjust Your Hand Ranges
Because everyone is more likely to make strong hands, you should tighten up your starting hand selections slightly compared to traditional Hold’em.
4. Don’t Overvalue Straights
Straights are more common and often beaten by bigger hands. Be careful not to overcommit unless your straight is very strong (e.g., the nut straight).
Why It’s So Popular
Short Deck Poker gained popularity through high-stakes games in Asia and was made mainstream by poker legends like Tom Dwan and Phil Ivey. Its action-heavy format, frequent monster hands, and strategic depth make it incredibly entertaining for both players and spectators.
Poker tournaments and online platforms now regularly feature Short Deck events, and some professional players specialize in it exclusively.
Final Thoughts
Short Deck Poker isn’t just a fad—it’s a bold new twist on a classic game. Whether you’re itching for something new or ready to face off in a format where anything can happen, learning the Short Deck Poker rules is your first step into a thrilling arena of high variance and even higher rewards.
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