Browse > Home / HORSE Poker Tips

HORSE Poker Tips


For those of you that do not know, HORSE poker is a mixture of all your favorite poker games:

H – Hold Em
O – Omaha Hi/Lo
R – Razz
S – Stud
E – Eight or better Stud

It has been said that HORSE poker is the true test for a poker player and will show how well rounded they may be. All games are played in the limit style of betting, and you have to be prepared to change gears at the start of every new level. While strategy books have been written for each game already, it is important to consider a few of these things when you sit down for a mixed game.

HORSE Poker Tips & Strategy

  • Try to play more of the games you are stronger in. Take advantage of players who do not play specific games well.

  • Do not “not play” the games you are weak in. The blinds will eventually eat you up. If possible, try to play the “nuts” or close to it.

  • The most popular games are Hold Em and Omaha. Try to get a little more than “familiar” with the Stud based games.

  • Although this may seem obvious, keep track of the rounds especially in Stud. You will start with Razz and make the transition into Stud. Two completely different games and many players forget and go a couple hands before they figure it out.

  • All games are Limit style of betting, be sure to bet for value.

    • Texas Hold Em

  • Stick to good starting hands.

  • ABC poker: Bet when you have something and fold when you do not.

  • Get your money in when you are ahead

    • Omaha hi-lo

  • You will want to play hands that are connected, suited, and one pair in the hole. The more combinations you have the better. Any hand such as A-A-X-X is playable and should be raised. Hands such as K-K-Q-10 are good as well as a flop can bring multiple straight and flush opportunities. For low draws you can also add A-2-3-4 or A-A-2-3.

  • Be careful chasing draws. In limit style games you simply will not have the odds to call. Only chase multiple draws such as multiple straights combined with flushes.

  • Be sure to only play a maximum of one pair in the hole. For example, you do want to play hole cards that consist of 3-4 Aces as you will lose potential outs.

  • Do not play in multi way pots (3+ players) unless you can scoop the pot. This will ensure you will not lose money by splitting the pot multiple ways.

    • Razz Poker

  • The best hand is a wheel: A-2-3-4-5.

  • Pay attention to other players cards.

  • Good starting cards should consist of very low cards such as A-2-3 or A-2-4 or A-2-5. This is not to say that you can not play a starting hand like A-2-7, but be prepared to let the hand go if you feel beaten.

  • Straights and flushes do not count against you.

    • 7 Card Stud

  • Start with a combination of cards. For example K-J-10 would be a decent starting hand. It is even better if 2 or more cards are suited.

  • Use your exposed cards as “scare cards” for your opponents. Make them think you have something when you do not.

  • Play hands that are made with hidden cards aggressively. If you have a pocket Kings showing and one exposed, play aggressively. Especially if your opponent is showing one Ace with no other big draws. This will definitely hold true in lower stakes as they will feel a pair is good.

    • Eight or Better Stud

  • Similar to Omaha, try to “scoop” the pot. Do not get crazy with a low hand with more than 3+ players.

  • Hands such as A-X-X are good, A-K-X (X= 2 thru 5) are ok, and any combination with straights or flushes. Give yourself multiple opportunities to make hands.

  • Be aware of your opponents cards and be sure what you have can beat his exposed cards. If so, see what types of draws they may be on.

    • And then, repeat … After 8 or better Stud you will go back to playing Hold Em again. These tips are just to get you started of course but should definitely keep you from being a losing player. The biggest tip of all is to practice, practice, and practice some more, especially in games you feel that you are weaker in. You will find that learning how to play each game in HORSE will make you an overall better poker player.