2-7 Triple Draw Poker is a popular form of lowball poker at top poker sites where the usual hand rankings are inverted. The aim is to get the hand that would be the lowest in traditional forms of poker. 2-7 Triple Draw Poker is played with five cards in your hand and involves rounds of discarding and drawing more cards in an attempt to get the lowest value hand.
In this 2-7 Triple Draw Poker guide, we break down everything you need to know about the game, its hand rankings, rounds, and more.
How To Play 2-7 Triple Draw Poker
2-7 Triple Draw Poker, also known as Deuce to Seven Triple Draw, is a lowball draw poker game. The lowball element emphasises the importance of players obtaining the lowest-ranked hand available. Unlike traditional versions of poker, players also have the ability to draw and discard their cards until they are happy with their hands.
Each player begins with five cards, facedown. There are three drawing rounds where players can discard one to five cards or choose not to discard at all. Between each drawing round is a betting round. This form of lowball poker typically uses a small and a big blind to initiate the betting after the initial deal.
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Hand Rankings In 2-7 Triple Draw Poker
2-7 Triple Draw Poker uses a completely inverted poker hand ranking. Hands that are typically high value, like straights and flushes, are low value in this lowball poker style.
There are no community cards in 2-7 Triple Draw Poker, so the hand is formed entirely on the cards you hold. The goal is to get the lowest high card while avoiding any combinations such as pairs and straights. The lack of community cards also means you will have no idea of the potential hands your opponents can draw, adding an extra element to the game.
When forming your hand, you need to consider that:
- Aces are always high, so they should be avoided.
- Straights and flushes are bad in this game.
- The best possible hand in this version of poker is 7-5-4-3-2 in different suits.
- The worst hand of single cards would be A-K-Q-J-9, which might beat a straight or a flush, but will not beat any other hands of single numbers in different suits.
- A Royal Flush is the worst possible hand.
2-7 Triple Draw Poker Rounds
2-7 Triple Draw Poker Rounds
Here is a rundown of the rounds involved in a game of 2-7 Triple Draw Poker:
- The Deal - Each player receives five cards facedown.
- First Betting Round - The blinds are placed, and then, starting with the first player to the left of the big blind, players choose to call, raise, or fold.
- First Draw - Players discard and replace up to five cards or keep their hand as it is.
- Second Betting Round - Another round of calling, raising, or folding occurs.
- Second Draw - Players try to improve their hand by discarding and replacing cards.
- Third Betting Round - Another round of betting.
- Third Draw - The last chance to discard and replace cards.
- Final Betting Round - Everyone makes their final betting call.
- Showdown - All remaining players reveal their hands, and the one with the lowest value wins the pot.
Tips for Playing 2-7 Triple Draw Poker
As a type of draw poker, 2-7 Triple Draw Poker involves a significant amount of strategy. It’s a game that can reward patience, discipline, and observation. Follow these tips if you’re new to the game or just looking to change up your strategy.
- Understand the hands - Familiarise yourself with the best possible hands in 2-7 Triple Draw so you know what you’re aiming for and what you’re working with.
- Know when to fold - If your starting hand has too many high cards, it may be better to fold rather than try to claw back a decent hand.
- Observe your opponents - Watch how many cards they are discarding because this may clue you in on the strength of their hands.
- Maximise strong draws - If you’ve got a strong low hand of single numbers, don’t be afraid to try to benefit from it.
- Be patient - It can take a while to get a good hand, just stay focused. Even after folding, you can watch to observe your opponent's behaviour.
- Manage your bankroll - Stick to your budget, know the limits, and don’t chase losses.
Conclusion
With unique hand rankings, the three-card draw format, and strategic depth, 2-7 Triple Draw Poker is significantly different from more popular types of poker.
The game is ideal for players who appreciate the strategic elements of traditional poker. The lowball nature means it could be a great alternative for players who are tired of the usual forms of poker they play.
