Short Deck Poker, also called Six Plus Hold'em, is a fast-paced poker variant played with a 36-card deck (all cards below 6 removed). With adjusted hand rankings (flushes beat full houses), it creates more action and bigger pots than Texas Hold'em. Popular in high-stakes games, it's a favorite among pros and casual players alike.

The Short Deck Poker rules are similar to Texas Hold'em, but with key differences:

• Deck: 36 cards (2-5 removed)
• Hand Rankings: Flushes > Full Houses, and straights are rarer
• Gameplay: Blinds, betting rounds, and showdowns follow traditional poker, but with more aggressive action due to the short deck

In Six Plus Hold'em, the Short Deck Poker hand rankings change:

1. Three of a Kind > Straight (unlike traditional poker)
2. Flush beats Full House
3. No Low Cards: Pairs and high cards gain value

This shift creates more dynamic showdowns and strategic betting.

The key differences between Short Deck Poker and Texas Hold'em are:

• Deck Size: 36 vs. 52 cards
• Hand Strength: Flushes > Full Houses in Six Plus Hold'em
• Action: More all-ins and big pots due to stronger starting hands

Players love Short Deck for its faster pace and higher variance.

Top sites to play Short Deck Poker online include:

• PokerStars (US/UK)
• GGPoker (global)
• WSOP.com (US only)

Look for "Short Deck Poker cash games" or "Six Plus Hold'em tournaments" for the best action.

A winning Short Deck Poker strategy includes:

• Play More Hands: High cards and pairs gain value
• Aggressive Betting: Capitalize on weaker straights and flushes
• Position Matters: Steal blinds more often in late position

Pro players adjust quickly to the 36-card deck dynamics.

Short Deck Poker is easier to learn but harder to master than Texas Hold'em. The simplified deck (no small cards) means more playable hands, but the adjusted rankings require new strategies. It's perfect for players who love fast-paced poker action.

Short Deck Poker's popularity comes from:

• Faster Gameplay: More all-ins and quick decisions
• TV Exposure: Featured in Triton Poker and high-roller events
• Bigger Wins: Adjusted odds create massive pots

It's the top choice for thrill-seeking poker players.