Stud Poker Variations: Razz & London Lowball
Stud poker is full of fascinating variations to keep poker players interested. Two of the most popular Stud pokers variations are Razz and London Lowball.
In general terms, Razz is the California Lowball of Seven-card stud. In this case you’re trying to get the lowest valued five-card combination out of seven cards. If it helps, think of it as trying to get the worst hand (something many of us are good at without even trying!) The best ‘worst’ hand to get is an ace, deuce, three, four and a five. Unlike in London lowball (which we’ll discuss in a second), it’s ok to get those five cards for that hand since straights and flushes don’t count against you.
Here are some things to keep in mind when playing Razz Poker. Razz requires everyone to ante before anyone gets cards. On the third street (1st up-card) the highest card starts the action and afterwards the player with the lowest card starts the action on each betting round.
London lowball is, in most aspects, another opposite of Seven-card stud. The object is to get the lowest possible hand (just like in Razz). For example, an ace, deuce, three, four and a six is the lowest hand. Five isn’t desired for that hand because straights and flushes count against you. This is one of the differences with Razz. Aces in London Lowball are usually counted as a low card. London lowball hasn’t caught on much outside of Europe, but that ok. Even Texas Hold ‘em was an obscure game at one point, and look at it now.
Here are some final tips for Razz & London Lowball. Take a look around the table as you play. Since it’s a stud poker game, a good portion of the cards will be visible. Use that to reduce the possible number of available cards. For example, if there are three aces face up, then it’s more unlikely that you’ll be dealt one than if there weren’t any showing at all. Also, use your visible cards against other players. Since they can see your cards, it may be a good time to bluff if you have some good cards showing (but have nothing hidden.) Put on your best poker face and stare down “Devilfish Dave” till’ he sweats and folds.
Good luck out there!
