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Texas Hold’em is the most widely played format of poker enjoyed globally. It can be found in casinos, private games and online platforms, too. The majority of poker fanatics are well-acquainted with No Limit Texas Hold’em, but few realize there’s multiple alternatives, each boasting their own distinct rules and strategic components.
Before we delve into the four variations of Texas Hold’em poker, we’ll go back into the history books to look at the origins of Texas Hold’em and how it evolved into the premier poker format we know and love today.
The Origins of Texas Hold’em
Texas Hold’em’s roots can be traced back as far as the early 20th century in the lesser-known area of Robstown in the Lone Star State of Texas. Although details surrounding its inception remain unclear, the game gained popularity across the state before making its way to Las Vegas in the 1960s.
Consequently, Vegas has since been known as the global capital of poker. This neon-lit corner of the Nevada desert is famed for its proximity to the Grand Canyon, where trips can be taken by road, as well as its live entertainment scene. However, there’s nothing quite like the atmosphere when the World Series of Poker (WSOP) comes to town every summer.
From the outset, No Limit Texas Hold’em proved to be the shining light. A pivotal figure behind its meteoric rise was the late poker icon Doyle Brunson, who pioneered the game with the likes of Amarillo Slim and Johnny Moss.
As time passed, numerous variations of No Limit Texas Hold’em emerged. Although the fundamental mechanics of the game are largely consistent across all formats, each version has their own unique betting structures and tactical approaches.
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The Different Versions of Texas Hold’em
No Limit Hold’em stands out as the most familiar and frequently played version of the game. Its hallmark characteristic is that players can bet any quantity of chips they possess at any moment during play, creating thrilling high-stakes scenarios along with substantial pots. No Limit Hold’em requires an exceptional level of strategic depth, but it can pose challenges for novices, since a single error can deplete an entire chip stack.
In Limit Hold’em, by contrast, the amount you can bet per round is capped, restricting you to betting and raising in fixed increments. If the small blind and big blind were $5 and $10 respectively, you can only bet and raise in the increments of the big blind. Each betting round also limits the number of raises, so it’s useful for those who want to diminish the risk of committing an entire bankroll on one hand. However, the structured nature of the game means bluffs and aggressive manoeuvres are more difficult to pull off.
Pot Limit Hold’em is considered the “middle ground” between No Limit and Limit Hold’em structures. In Pot Limit, your maximum bet can only be the size of the current pot. If there’s $50 already in the pot, the maximum you can raise is another $50. The format offers tighter control over your betting, while still allowing considerable betting activity. Pot Limit Hold’em has failed to secure the same popularity as Pot Limit Omaha, which is one of the most played poker niches outside of Texas Hold’em.
Finally, Mixed Limit Hold’em is a fusion of No Limit and Limit rounds, creating a dynamic poker game that tests your flexibility as a player. The game structure will change from No Limit to Limit after every orbit i.e. one full round of blinds at the table. Mixed Limit games are fun to play and teach you to become more adaptable to your table conditions as a poker player.
Which Version Should You Play?
Let’s keep it simple. If you’re a fan of deep strategy and limitless pots, No Limit Hold’em should be your go-to choice. If you’re attracted to a methodical, math-driven poker games, Limit Hold’em ticks all the right boxes. If you like the idea of a balance between risk and control, be sure to give Pot Limit Hold’em a try. Similarly, if you like to switch-up poker strategies in the same game, Mixed Limit Hold’em is guaranteed to keep you on your toes.
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