The most common rotations
| Mix | Games |
|---|---|
| H.O.R.S.E. | Limit Hold'em, Omaha Hi-Lo, Razz, Stud, Stud Hi-Lo |
| 8-Game | H.O.R.S.E. + 2-7 Triple Draw, No-Limit Hold'em, PLO |
| Dealer's choice | Each dealer picks the game from an agreed list, often including Badugi, Big O and 2-7 Single Draw |
Why the best players love them
In a single game, specialists can memorise solutions. In a mix, nobody is equally strong in every variant, so the edges are bigger and the decisions are more human. Mixed-game events at the World Series of Poker have long been regarded as some of the most prestigious titles in the game.
How to start
- Learn the lowball games first. They are where newcomers to mixed games lose the most.
- Know each game's limit structure: small bets on early streets, double on later ones.
- Play tighter than you would in your best game. Your edge is smaller in the others.
Frequently asked questions
What does H.O.R.S.E. stand for?
Hold'em, Omaha Hi-Lo, Razz, Seven Card Stud and Stud Eight or Better, usually all played in fixed-limit format.
What games are in the 8-Game mix?
The five H.O.R.S.E. games plus 2-7 Triple Draw, No-Limit Hold'em and Pot-Limit Omaha.
How often do the games rotate?
Usually after one full orbit of the button in flop games, or after a set number of hands or a fixed time in stud games.