Poker Draw Variations: Q Ball
Q Ball poker is an interesting variation of a lowball poker game. What makes Q Ball so unique (besides its rather odd name) is that it combines more of the variations of draw poker into its play style, making the game a little more complex in its standard rule set. This type of lowball is usually played with three blinds: One blind from the dealer, one unit to the dealer’s left, and two units for the second poker player to the dealer’s left. To additionally spice things up, a typical Q-Ball deck makes use of one Joker card.
At the beginning of the round, each player is dealt three cards. After the cards are dealt, a round of betting will take place with the player after the big blind. The first player may then call the big blind, raise, or fold. It is also important to remember that there is no checking in the first round (which we’ll get to a little later).
Following the initial deal, the players are then issued a fourth card that is followed by a second round of betting that involves the player to the dealer’s left. Once again, there’s still no checking allowed in play just yet (so just sit tight for a few more moments, check fans.) As there is no bet facing the first player, the first player is required to either open or fold.
Finally, each player is then dealt a fifth card, followed by yet another betting round beginning on the dealer’s left. Now, this round adds a little variation, as checking is now allowed (told you it was coming). At this point, each poker player will now draw as in normal draw poker. Betting is not over yet, as there is a fourth betting round, and the inevitable showdown.
Still with the rules so far? That’s good. Now it’s key to remember that standard A-5 lowball rules come into play (like in California Lowball). This means A-5 is the best hand (as straights are ignored.) There are also preferred betting structures that some Q-Ball games will utilize to make things lively (like 1-2-2-4 – betting twice to 4x as much as the first round in rounds 2-4)
Q Ball sounds a little tricky to get the hang of at first, but as with anything else, it gets easier to understand through repeated play (which the sharks at the professional tables heartily recommend, by the way… ok, maybe it’s best to practice in a friendly game at a friend’s house first!)
