Dealer's Choice Rules

Introduction

Dealer's Choice Rules are a popular format in home games and mixed game tournaments, where the dealer gets to choose the poker variant for each hand. This adds variety and tests players' versatility across different games.

How It Works

Typically, at the start of a hand, the player in the dealer position (or the button) selects a game from a predetermined list. The list may include common games like No-Limit Texas Hold'em, Pot-Limit Omaha, Seven-Card Stud, Razz, and others. Some variations allow any game, while others require the game to be known to all players. The dealer's choice format often rotates with the dealer button, so each player gets to choose when they are the dealer.

Common Variants

In many Dealer's Choice games, the following variants are standard:

• Hold'em (Limit or No-Limit)
• Omaha (Hi, Hi/Lo, or Pot-Limit)
• Seven-Card Stud (Hi, Hi/Lo, or Razz)
• Draw games like 2-7 Triple Draw, Badugi
• Mixed games like H.O.R.S.E. (though H.O.R.S.E. has a fixed rotation)

Rules and Etiquette

To ensure smooth play, Dealer's Choice games usually have a set of rules:

• The dealer must announce the game before cards are dealt.
• All players should be familiar with the chosen game; if not, the dealer may be required to choose a different game.
• Limits (e.g., Limit, Pot-Limit, No-Limit) are often predetermined per game or chosen by the dealer.
• Some games have a "must move" rule for blinds or antes.

Strategic Considerations

Dealer's Choice tests a player's adaptability. Skilled players exploit weaker opponents in games where they excel. It also mitigates the advantage of specialists, as the game changes frequently. Bankroll management becomes crucial because different games have different volatilities.

Conclusion

Dealer's Choice Rules make poker more dynamic and social. They are a staple in home games and certain tournament formats like the World Series of Poker's Dealer's Choice events.