Dealer's choice: how to run a mixed home poker game
In a dealer’s choice game, the player who deals (or holds the button) chooses which poker game is played — for one hand or one full orbit. It’s a classic way to keep home games varied and fun.
How it works
Section titled “How it works”- Agree on a list of allowed games before you start.
- The dealer announces the game (and the betting structure) before dealing.
- Most groups play the chosen game for one orbit so everyone gets the same positions.
- The deal passes to the left; the next dealer chooses.
Popular games to include
Section titled “Popular games to include”| Game | Why it’s good for home games |
|---|---|
| Texas Hold’em | Everyone knows it |
| Omaha / PLO | Big hands, lots of action |
| Omaha hi-lo | Split pots keep more players in |
| Seven-card stud | Classic, no community cards |
| Five-card draw | Simple and nostalgic |
| Pineapple / Irish poker | Fun Hold’em twists |
| Razz / 2-7 triple draw | Lowball variety |
| Chinese poker | Great for breaks or short-handed tables |
Agree on rules first
Section titled “Agree on rules first”- Stakes and betting structure for each game (no-limit, pot-limit or fixed-limit). See betting structures.
- Whether wild cards or very unusual games are allowed.
- How to handle misdeals and disputes. See misdeals and rulings.
Tips for beginners
Section titled “Tips for beginners”- Choose games you know well when it’s your deal.
- Ask questions before the hand starts — nobody minds in a friendly game.
- Play tighter in games you’re new to.
See also home poker game and HORSE and mixed games.
What is dealer’s choice poker?
Section titled “What is dealer’s choice poker?”A home-game format where the dealer chooses which poker game is played for a hand or an orbit.
Which games are good for dealer’s choice?
Section titled “Which games are good for dealer’s choice?”Hold’em, Omaha, Omaha hi-lo, seven-card stud, five-card draw, Pineapple and lowball games.
How long is each game played?
Section titled “How long is each game played?”Often one full orbit so everyone gets the same positions.
What should be agreed before playing?
Section titled “What should be agreed before playing?”The list of allowed games, stakes, betting structures and how to settle disputes.