Poker is a classic card game loved by many around the world. The game has evolved over the years, giving rise to a variety of different variations that offer unique twists and challenges. If you’re looking to spice up your poker game, here are 10 must-try variations of poker games that will keep you on your toes.

1. Texas Hold’em: Texas Hold’em is perhaps the most popular variation of poker played worldwide. It is known for its strategic gameplay and intense competition. According to professional poker player Doyle Brunson, “Texas Hold’em is the Cadillac of poker games. It’s the game that everybody wants to play.”

2. Omaha: Omaha is another popular variation of poker that is similar to Texas Hold’em but with a few key differences. In Omaha, players are dealt four hole cards instead of two, and must use exactly two of their hole cards in combination with three community cards to make the best hand.

3. Seven Card Stud: Seven Card Stud is a classic variation of poker that was popular before the rise of Texas Hold’em. In this game, players are dealt seven cards, with the first two and the last card dealt face down, and the remaining four cards dealt face up.

4. Razz: Razz is a lowball variation of poker where the goal is to have the lowest hand possible. In Razz, straights and flushes do not count against you, making it a unique and challenging game to master.

5. Pineapple: Pineapple is a fun variation of poker where players are dealt three hole cards instead of two, and must discard one card after the flop. This adds an extra element of strategy and excitement to the game.

6. Crazy Pineapple: Crazy Pineapple is a wild variation of Pineapple poker where players are dealt three hole cards, but must discard one card after the flop. The twist? Players must discard their third card after the turn, making for even more unpredictable gameplay.

7. Badugi: Badugi is a draw poker variation where the goal is to have the lowest four-card hand with no pairs or matching suits. Badugi is a popular game in Asia and is gaining popularity in other parts of the world as well.

8. Chinese Poker: Chinese Poker is a unique variation of poker where players are dealt 13 cards and must arrange them into three different hands: two five-card hands and one three-card hand. Chinese Poker is a fast-paced and exciting game that requires skill and strategy.

9. Pot-Limit Omaha: Pot-Limit Omaha is a variation of Omaha where players can only bet up to the amount of the pot. This adds an extra layer of complexity to the game and requires players to carefully consider their betting strategy.

10. Five Card Draw: Five Card Draw is a classic variation of poker where players are dealt five cards and have the opportunity to exchange some or all of their cards for new ones. Five Card Draw is a simple and straightforward game that is perfect for beginners and experienced players alike.

So why not give one of these must-try variations of poker games a try? As professional poker player Phil Hellmuth once said, “Poker is a skill game pretending to be a chance game.” With these variations, you can test your skills and strategy in new and exciting ways. Good luck at the tables!