If you’re a fan of poker and looking to spice things up with a twist, Baduki (also spelled Badugi) might just be the game for you. Originating in Asia and gaining popularity in both online and offline card rooms around the world, Baduki Game is a lowball poker variant that’s all about creating the lowest possible hand—but with a unique set of rules that make it both strategic and refreshing.
Understanding the Basics of Baduki
Baduki is typically played with 2 to 8 players, using a standard 52-card deck. Unlike Texas Hold’em or Omaha, Baduki is a draw poker game, meaning players can discard and draw new cards during play. The objective? To make the lowest four-card hand possible—but with no duplicate suits and no pairs.
In Baduki, Ace is low and straights or flushes don’t count against you. The ideal hand is A-2-3-4, each card of a different suit. That’s known as a “Baduki” or a perfect hand.
How to Play the Baduki Game
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The Deal: Each player receives four cards face down.
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Betting Rounds: There are usually four betting rounds—one after the deal and one after each of the three draws.
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The Draws: In each draw round, players can discard any number of cards (from none to all four) and receive new ones from the deck.
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The Showdown: After the final round of betting, players reveal their hands. The best Baduki hand wins the pot.
Hand Rankings in Baduki
Baduki uses lowball hand rankings, but with a twist. The hands are ranked by their highest card, with suits and pairs being crucial factors.
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4-Card Baduki (each card a different suit and rank) beats any 3-card hand.
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A hand like A♠-2♥-3♦-4♣ is unbeatable.
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If no one has a 4-card Baduki, the best 3-card hand wins, and so on.
Strategy Tips for Baduki
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Discard smart: Always aim for a 4-card Baduki. Holding onto suited cards or pairs limits your chances.
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Observe your opponents: If they’re drawing multiple cards, they probably have a weaker hand.
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Be selective: Don’t chase weak hands. Starting with 3 different suits and low cards gives you the best edge.
Why Play Baduki?
Baduki offers a fresh take on poker that challenges your ability to think differently. Because it’s less well-known, many players are unfamiliar with optimal strategies, giving you an edge if you study the game. It’s also a great way to break the monotony of traditional poker games while improving your decision-making and bluffing skills.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned poker pro or a curious beginner, Baduki is a fun and exciting variation that’s worth adding to your card game rotation. With its unique rules and fast-paced play, it’s no wonder this game is gaining fans across the globe. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to play poker.
