Omaha Hi-Lo (also known as Omaha 8 or better) is frequently viewed as one of the most difficult but well-loved poker games. It is a variation that, even more than normal Omaha poker, invites play from all levels of players. This is the main reason why a once invisible variation, has grown in popularity so rapidly.
Omaha 8 or better begins like a normal game of Omaha. 4 cards are dealt to every player. A sequence of betting ensues where gamblers can bet, check, or drop out. Three cards are handed out, this is called the flop. One more sequence of wagering ensues. After all the gamblers have in turn called or folded, an additional card is revealed on the turn. an additional round of betting happens and then the river card is flipped. The players will need to put together the best high and low five card hands based on the board and hole cards.
This is where some entrants can get baffled. Contrasted to Texas Holdem, where the board can be every player’s hand, in Omaha Hi-Lo the player has to utilize exactly three cards from the board, and exactly 2 cards from their hand. No more, no less. Contrary to normal Omaha, there are two ways a pot may be won: the "higher hand" or the "lower hand."
A high hand is just what it sounds like. It is the best hand out of every player’s, whether that is a straight, flush, full house, etc. It’s the identical concept in nearly every poker game.
A lower hand is more complex, but really opens up the play. When figuring out a low hand, straights and flushes don’t count. A low hand is the worst hand that could be put together, with the lowest value being made up of A-2-3-4-5. Considering that straights and flushes do not count, A-2-3-4-5 is the lowest possible hand. The lower hand is any 5 card hand (unpaired) with an eight and lower. The lower hand takes half of the pot, as does the higher hand. When there is no low hand presented, the higher hand takes the entire pot.
It may seem complicated at first, following a couple of rounds you will be able to get the basic subtleties of play simply enough. Seeing as you have players wagering for the low and wagering for the high, and since such a large number of cards are in play, Omaha hi/lo offers an exciting range of betting choices and owing to the fact that you have numerous individuals trying for the high hand, along with many battling for the low. If you enjoy a game with a lot of outs and actions, it’s worth your time to participate in Omaha 8 or better.