Irish Poker - A Fun Variant for All Poker Players That Want to Learn Something New
With so many available online casino games, it can be difficult to find just one to play on repeat. Instead, we’re always on the lookout for new opportunities and new sorts to play. So, if you’re tired of the same old slot titles, blackjack variations, and poker games, why not give something different a try? For example, Irish Poker might be just what you need to break the monotony and bring some more excitement into this entertainment option. Here is what you should know about it.
Why is poker so popular in Ireland?
If you’re wondering how there is an Irish variant of poker, you must not know how popular poker is in Ireland. For a while, the Irish were thought of as the most daring gamblers in the world until Scandinavian nations took that title. In 2019, it was estimated that there were 40,000 slot machines in the country and about 20,000 serious gamblers.
Research in etymology showed that the word poker is actually related to the Irish game poca, where people take bets against themselves and pocket money. The term “poca” means “pocketing”. While the game is a bit different from the modern-day variant, they have a common root.
In terms of legislation, the first regulation was passed in 1854 while there is also the 1931 Betting Act as well as the 1956 Gaming and Lotteries Act, in addition to their amendments. These state that running a land-based casino is not allowed, but there are loopholes that permit operating private clubs with facilities similar to a casino’s. Most of these can be found in Dublin. On the other hand, online casinos are legal in the country due to 2015 regulations. That means that interested players can easily find the best poker sites in Ireland, rated by real users where they can play a couple of games. This is great news for the players since they love playing online poker and now they can access it legally and safely.
Ireland even produced some famous poker players like Dermot Blain, Andrew “Andy” Black, Terry Rogers, Dara O’Kearney, Marc MacDonnell, and Donnacha O’Dea. Furthermore, it is home to the Irish Poker Open, which is the longest-running poker tournament in Europe.
What is Irish Poker?
If you’ve grown tired of Texas and Omaha Hold ‘em, it might be time to switch things up for a while. For example, while inspired by the two variations, Irish Poker comes with a twist. That way, you might have to change your strategy every once in a while. It’s available in more and more online casinos due to its increasing popularity. You might even be able to find live Irish Poker tournaments. However, keep in mind that the drinking game is better suited for a home environment.
The rules of Irish Poker
To get started, you should know that the rules are pretty similar to Texas Hold ’em. You will have to post a blind before the hand starts and the game goes clockwise from the player with the small blind. That being said, instead of getting two cards, every player gets four hole cards, placed face down. Then, the preflop betting round starts with the UTG player. With the preflop done, the standard flop begins, consisting of three face-up cards. After the flop, all active players need to discard two cards they have in their hands. This basically means that both the turn and the river are played like Hold ’em. When showing your hand, you can use any combination of hole and community cards that will allow you to create the best hand. As you can see, the rules are not complicated at all, with the only big difference being giving up two cards from your hand.
How to play Irish Poker
While the rules shouldn’t be too difficult to understand, you should still try a few tips that will help you get adjusted to this variation and come out victorious. For example, you want to pick out the best starting hand. A hand where all cards work together is ideal. You want to keep Aces, Kings, and Queens, or any rundowns, such as 8, 9, 10, and J. Moreover, hands that have both flush and straight possibilities are always welcome. Pairs of strong cards are also beneficial. Stay away from weaker hands, like you would in Omaha.
Drinking variation
If you’re looking to play a fun game with your friends while you sip on some drinks, you can also try the drinking variation of Irish Poker. Decide if you want beer, wine, shots, or some other kind of alcohol. While you don’t want too many rules to hamper your enjoyment, there are some guidelines to follow. For example, in the first round, a player has to guess if their first card is red or black while in the second, they can guess if the second one is higher or lower than the first one. You can find some other rules online to show you when to drink.
As you can see, Irish Poker is similar to other variations but just different enough to change things up. Try it the next time you want to play.