How to Play Seven-Card Stud
When many people start playing poker, stud poker is one of the go-to options. It is available in different varieties that include five-card stud, seven-card stud, Mississippi stud and razz.
The game is simple, each player receives a certain number of cards. The cards are dealt face up with the last one being placed face down. The aim is to have the highest value possible, with the exception being razz that seeks to have the lowest value hand. Of course, each version has its own set of rules and we’ll be looking at seven-card stud.
What You Need to Know About Seven-Card Stud
Each player will receive three cards, two face down and one face up. You can look at the face-down cards. Bets go clockwise and players will have the option to bet or fold. Once each player has had a turn to bet, they will receive another face-up card. This continues until each player has seven cards. Players will then select their five best cards, and the player with the best cards wins.
Knowing When to Fold
The first few rounds will set the tone for the game, and if you have a weak hand, you will be better off folding. You can of course bluff your way through it if you’re able to. Take a look at the players around you to determine if it is worth sticking it out or not.
If you find yourself with a king or ace with the first three cards, staying in the game is recommended. If you have a pair, you can start playing aggressively to try and win the pot. Be careful about playing too aggressively as it can scare away the other players and reduce the likelihood of the pot growing.
While you may think that you have a good hand, you will never know how you compare with the rest of the players. Poker is a tricky game, and you may find that you experience setbacks in your quest for victory.
Another pro tip is to stick around if your first three cards have the same suit or form a sequence. Stick around and if the fourth card follows suit, play the next round. If not, you are better off folding.
Keep an Eye on The Table
Of course, if the cards in your hand are good, you need to make sure that it is able to beat the cards visible on the table. If your cards cannot compete, folding is worth considering. You need to pay attention to what is happening on and around the table. This will give you an idea of how to proceed and how to avoid tilt, the gamblers fallacy and other pitfalls.
Unlike when you play the tragamonedas Peru offers, poker is a game of skill and following your gut. You will need to take the time to practice and admit defeat before you are able to conquer tournaments and get those headline-worthy wins.