Poker is one of the most popular card games in the world, and while it’s always been and will continue to be an exciting game, sometimes it’s good to try one of the numerous poker variations that are available. Not only are these intriguing games in their own right, but it’ll keep your card playing skills sharp instead of having them stagnate by playing the same type of game over and over again. Let’s take a look at two of these popular variants and see exactly how to play them.

Badugi

There is some controversy over the origin of Badugi, but what we know for certain is that’s it’s been played since at least the 1980s. Suits play a critical role in this game, and it’s very similar to lowball. The goal is to be the player with the best four card low hand. However, it’s important to remember that in this game, there are three draws and similar suits and pairs will count against you.

Four cards are dealt to each player at the beginning of the game. The greatest hand possible is 4-3-2-A, with each card having its own suit. Try to avoid pairs and the same suits. Having a ‘badugi’ refers to four different cards of different suits, and having that will win you the game. If two players have ‘badugi,’ then whoever’s hand is lowest wins. If no one has it, then it’s whoever has the lowest three non-pair and different suited cards wins, or the lowest two. There are three bets and three draws after each round, the lowest wins. Additional information on how to play Badugi can be found here.

Guts

This is a classic variant, and it’s like having a game of chicken and features lots of opportunities for bluffs and big showdowns. There are several ways to play the game, but the most popular is to have players ante up and then be dealt three cards a piece. At this point, players can determine for themselves if they want to play the hand, which depends on its strength or their ability to bluff. Afterwards, players hold their cards near the center and the countdown begins – 1, 2, 3, ‘guts.’ On guts, players will either fold or hold up their cards to advance. The highest three cards win the whole pot. The game lasts until there is only one player left holding up their hand. Here is some more info about how to play Guts.