When a game has been around as long as poker has, it’s natural for new formats to develop over time. Without these, the gameplay can become a little too familiar, and that’s when players may start seeking something with a fresh edge. One such variation that’s gained considerable traction in recent years is Short Deck Poker.
This format has become particularly popular in certain poker circles and has even caught the attention of experienced players. In this article, we’ll look into what Short Deck Poker involves, how the rules differ, how the hand rankings are arranged, and how it compares to traditional poker formats. Check out each section below to learn more.
What Is Short Deck Poker?
Short Deck Poker is a relatively recent take on the classic Texas Hold ’em game. First introduced in 2014 by two well-known businessmen and keen poker players from Asia, the game was originally more of a trial run – a 
way to shake up the usual flow of play.
The change they made was subtle at first – a few low cards were taken out of the deck. But over time, they found the gameplay became more intriguing the more they reduced. Eventually, they settled on a specific structure that cut the number of cards down noticeably, creating what is now known as the “Short Deck”.
You might also hear this format referred to by other names – Six Plus Hold ’em, Short Deck Hold ’em, or even Triton Hold ’em – depending on the setting.
Short Deck Poker Rules
Naturally, a game built around a reduced set of cards plays a little differently. But for anyone who already knows Texas Hold ’em, much of the structure might feel somewhat familiar at first glance.
The biggest difference is the one hinted at earlier – the deck itself. Instead of the standard 52-card setup, Short Deck Poker uses just 36 cards. The 2s, 3s, 4s and 5s are removed, which subtly alters both the flow and the potential outcomes.
Here are the typical rules of play:
- Each game is played with a 36-card deck.
- Some games may skip the traditional blinds. In such cases, every player usually places an ante before cards are dealt.
- Players receive two hole cards each.
- The action begins with the player to the left of the button.
- There are four betting rounds, as in regular Hold ’em: Pre-flop, Flop, Turn, and River.
- Aces can serve in more than one role – something that becomes particularly useful when forming certain combinations.
- Crucially, the usual order of hand rankings is adjusted. Some hands that are stronger in regular poker may rank lower here, and vice versa.
These changes may seem small on paper, but they can make a real difference during play.
Short Deck Poker Hand Rankings
As mentioned above, one of the more significant adjustments in Short Deck Poker involves how hands are ranked. This isn't just a cosmetic tweak – it can completely shift how a round plays out.
Some combinations you might expect to hold strong may now be overtaken by others that are usually lower down the list in traditional formats. For example, in several Short Deck versions, a flush typically beats a full house, reversing the usual order seen in Texas Hold ’em.
Here’s how the hands typically rank in Short Deck Poker, from highest to lowest: 
- Royal Flush: Five high cards of the same suit – for example, A-K-Q-J-10 of spades.
- Straight Flush: Five cards of the same suit in sequence – for example, 10-9-8-7-6, all of diamonds.
- Four of a Kind: Four cards of equal value – for example, J-J-J-J.
- Flush: Five cards of the same suit, not in sequence – for example, A-Q-9-8-7, all of hearts.
- Full House: Three of a kind plus a pair – for example, 10-10-10 and 7-7.
- Three of a Kind: Three cards of the same rank – for example, 6-6-6.
- Straight: Five cards in consecutive order, of any suit – for example, 6 of spades, 7 of hearts, 8 of clubs, 9 of diamonds, and 10 of clubs.
- Two Pairs: Two pairs of equal value – for example, A-A and 9-9.
- One Pair: Two matching cards – for example, Q-Q.
- High Card: When no combinations form, the highest single card counts – for example, A of clubs, J of diamonds, 8 of spades, 6 of diamonds, and 10 of clubs.
The absence of 2s through 5s, as mentioned earlier, makes some hands easier to form, but the power of each hand changes accordingly. That’s why a hand like a straight, while more frequent, doesn’t carry the same weight here as it would elsewhere.
Is Short Deck Poker Easier?
Whether Short Deck Poker feels more straightforward or more complex depends heavily on how well someone adapts to changes in structure and probabilities. At first glance, having fewer cards might suggest more chances to form valuable combinations. And that’s partially true — you may notice higher cards and stronger potential hands appearing more often.
However, this also means that familiar poker strategies might not translate well. Hands that typically dominate in Texas Hold ’em might not carry the same weight here, due to the altered rankings and increased likelihood of certain combinations forming.
For instance, where a straight was once difficult to land and quite powerful, in Short Deck Poker, it occurs more often but is often outranked by hands that were previously seen as less threatening.
Understanding these shifts is key. If you choose to play, paying attention to how each game is set up is vital. Not every Short Deck game follows the exact same version of the rules, and casinos or hosts may introduce subtle differences. Always make sure you're clear on the specific structure being used at the table.
Conclusion
Short Deck Poker offers a refreshing alternative for anyone looking to move away from more traditional formats like Texas Hold ’em or Omaha. While the base mechanics are still grounded in familiar poker principles, the trimmed-down deck and reworked rankings mean the game may feel fresh, even for seasoned players.
So, if you’re after a new challenge or want to explore a different kind of poker dynamic, Short Deck Poker may be worth a look. Just make sure to keep the rule changes in mind, and be prepared to think differently about what makes a hand strong.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.