5 card draw is one of the most simple poker games around. It consists of 5 cards, 2 betting rounds and 1 draw. As a result strategy is fairly limited. While common poker strategy and tactics such as betting and bluffing can be applied, the lack of betting rounds and quicker game serves to limit more in depth strategy to a point. However the following pointers should still be considered.
Hand selection – the starting hands you can play in draw largely depend on your opponents and the number of them left in the game. At a loose table – high pairs and 3 draw is acceptable, at tighter table’s higher pairs or better only should be your starting mark. Flush and straight draws should only be played from late position and any sets, or two pair should see you making a raise before the flop. Although the problem with two pair is unless they hold a premium pair then they risk being out drawn by an opponent.
Position – once again a key factor in the game, if you’re last to draw you can see how many cards previous players draw. A good tactic here is to stand pat if you have already raised in the previous round. Bluffing under such circumstances is much more successful as standing pat usually serves to kill the betting action after the draw.
Drawing cards – the amount of cards a player draws says a lot about the strength of the hand they are holding
3 cards – probably a pair
2 cards – a pair and a high card, or chasing a flush draw.
1 card – chasing a straight or flush draw. Or two pair.
The amount of cards you draw can also be used to mislead your opponents. For example if your holding high trips, try drawing one card to signal 2 pair, a weaker hand than what you are actually holding.
There are already a lot of games nowadays that can be played. Some are expensive and some are just right for the budget. But it’s great when you are a gamer.