Learn How To Play HORSE
HORSE tests players all around poker skill more than any other game. Usually played in a limit tournament format, but also played occasionally in ring games HORSE combines five versions of poker. It is a complicated and challenging structure, which requires a high level of concentration and skill, but HORSE can be a great deal of fun to play, especially if you want to alter your normal routine.
Each of the letters in
HORSE stands for a different game.
Each game is played using its own traditional rule set. HORSE is similar to a dealers choice game, but is a structured format without options.
Tournament Structure
In HORSE tournaments, the first game played is texas holdem, followed by omaha and so on, with each game being played a set and equal amount of time. The limits, and antes in the seven card stud variations advance on a schedule just like any other tournament. The most well known HORSE game is the World Series of Poker tournament every year. The tournament had a $50,000 buy in and attracted many of the best poker players in the world.
Ring Game Structure
HORSE ring games are just like other ring games in one respect: the blinds and antes stay the same. But the game changes on a set schedule, usually every round. For example, at an eight-handed table, texas holdem is played for eight hands, followed by omaha for eight hands, razz for eight hands, and so on.
Strategy
It is important to work on maximizing your wins while playing your strongest games and minimizing your losses in your weaker games. Try to recognize which players excel at each game to learn which players to be careful of and which players to attack. The best way to prepare for a HORSE ring game or tournament is to shore up your weak areas by playing the variations that you do not play often. Once you are in a HORSE game, only play your strongest hands in your weakest games. The key is to push your advantage in your best games and cover up any weaknesses by only playing above average hands in the other games.
