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Anaconda Poker Rules

The game is fairly unique but surprisingly, this is a popular variation and is very similar to 7 card stud game except for some key differences. This version of the game is also called Screw Your Neighbor, 3-2-1 Anaconda or 3-2-1 Left. Before we look at how to play the game, you need to understand one of the key differences in this variation. The first main difference is that all players are dealt seven cards face down (as opposed to some cards being dealt face up) - it is worth noting that there are some variations to the number of starting cards that are dealt - in some cases it is six.

To start the game there is a round of betting after the initial deal and then all players pass three cards to the player on their immediate left. As in any game, the concept doesn't change in that to stay in the hand, a player must call any bet made (match it). If there is no bet made by any player, you an check, fold or raise.

The three cards should be selected by each player (so you get to choose from the player on your right). No players get to see their new three cards until everyone has made a pass. No There is then another round of betting and then each player passes two further cards of their choice to the player on their left. Another round of betting and then all players pass one final card to the player on their left.

All players now keep five cards and throw away the other two making the best five card poker hand available. All players staying in the hand place the cards face down in front of them, another round of betting and then the showdown.

This game is generally played hi-lo and like other hi-lo variations, the high and low hand split the pot. As in all hi-lo games, it is possible for one player to win both should the high or low hand not be met. Where a player wins both the high hand and the low pot, the player would be said to be 'scooping the pot'. A reason that the Hi-Low variations are not as popular as their No-Limit counterpart is simply that there is more earning potential in the No-Limit games (players don't like splitting their winnings) - although it is infinitely easier to go bust!

To date there is no online room that offers an online version of this game however, it is a fun game and would likely be a hit if introduced in your home game.

Interesting: Visit our Games Section for Room Comparisons for online games.

Summary of Differences from 7 Card Stud

1) Unlike 7 card stud, seven cards are dealt face down followed by round of betting.

2) After the initial betting round, three down cards are passed to each players opponent on his left followed by by a round of betting.

3) A further two cards are then passed to the player on the left and another round of betting.

4) Best five cards are then put in a pile in front of each player and exposed one by one starting with the player with the highest card.