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The Rise Of Mixed Games And Why Pro Players Are Switching From No-Limit Hold’em

Anyone worth their salt in the poker world knows that No-Limit Texas Hold’em (NLHE) is where it’s at. Love Texas Hold’em? You’re in luck! This variant has reigned as the single top form of poker, dominating both live and online tables – for a seriously long time now. It’s the game that brought millions into the fold and in fairness, we owe it a lot.

But recently, a growing number of top-tier players have been shifting their focus away from NLHE to embrace mixed games. Don’t fret, we’re going to take a look at what mixed games actually are first! Then, we’ll move on to talk about the strategic diversity they offer and why many believe they represent the future of high-level poker.

What Are Mixed Games?

I promised an explainer and thus I shall deliver! Mixed games combine multiple poker variants into a single format, typically rotating between several different styles within one tournament or cash game session. Popular mixed game formats include H.O.R.S.E., which stands for Hold’em, Omaha Hi-Lo, Razz, Seven Card Stud, Stud Hi-Lo, and Eight-Game Mix, which adds more variants like Pot-Limit Omaha and 2-7 Triple Draw Lowball.

So, how does that affect players? Well, whether you’re playing a mixed game of poker online or in person, there’s no way around it. You have to master multiple poker disciplines. You’ve got to constantly adapt your strategies as the game changes every few hands. This stands in stark contrast to the singular focus of No-Limit Hold’em, where you’re the ultimate specialist. For some, it’s a nightmare, but others can thrive. And those in the “others” group tend to be the incredibly smart guys.

Why Are Pros Moving Away from No-Limit Hold’em?

Let’s get into it then; why are the pros leaving? No-Limit Hold’em, for all its popularity, has evolved into a highly studied and mathematically solved game. The widespread availability of training tools, solvers, and game theory optimal (GTO) strategies has narrowed the gap between professionals and well-trained amateurs. Sure, NLHE still offers great complexity, but the field has become much tougher. This means that finding a significant edge can be challenging.

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Mixed games fly in the face of all of this. They present a fresh set of challenges and opportunities. Since many poker variants within mixed games are less explored, pros can use their broader knowledge and adaptability to gain an edge over opponents who may not quite have got to grips with some of the less common variants yet.

More Complex and Dynamic Strategy

One of the biggest appeals of mixed games is the depth of strategy required. Each variant demands different skills, such as the patience and precision of limit games, the reading ability for Stud games, or the split-pot calculations in Omaha Hi-Lo. Success in mixed games comes down to versatility and a deep understanding of poker mechanics, allowing pros to flex their strategic muscles in a way that No-Limit Hold’em doesn’t always allow.

For example, Razz (a lowball game) requires players to think differently about hand strength, bluffing, and position, while Seven Card Stud adds the challenge of tracking exposed cards. The variety keeps the gameplay dynamic, pushing pros to stay sharp across multiple disciplines rather than relying on a single skill set.

Less Variance = More Stability

As anyone who’s sat waiting for a card will know only too well, No-Limit Hold’em can be a highly volatile game. Its massive swings in short-term results are due to the “all-in” nature of many hands. While pros certainly understand the long-term nature of variance, the massive ups and downs of NLHE can be mentally exhausting and financially stressful, especially in high-stakes play. So what if there was a lower volatility alternative?

Oh, there is! Mixed games, particularly those with a limit betting structure, tend to have lower variance. Since players can only bet a fixed amount in each round, the likelihood of going bust on a single hand is reduced. For those of us who enjoy the play and aren’t so bothered about the winning, this is whatever. But to professionals who value stability and are looking for a more controlled, strategic environment – this is the holy grail.

The Never-Ending Search for an Edge

As more players specialize in No-Limit Hold’em, the level of competition has become fiercer than ever. With their variety of formats, they offer fertile ground for players who can quickly adapt and outmaneuver opponents who are unfamiliar with certain variants.

Many high-stakes players believe that excelling in mixed games requires a broader poker IQ, as it forces them to specialize in everything from split-pot games to lowball variants. In a field where everyone is trying to gain an edge, being proficient in multiple games offers a significant advantage over players who only excel at one. The fact that not all of us can do it is exactly what these pros are relying on.

Bigger Opportunities

As the demand for mixed games grows, so too do the opportunities in major poker tournaments. Prestigious poker events have always featured mixed game tournaments, and sure, they don’t necessarily attract the largest prizes, but it ain’t bad! With these, you can nail all of those poker variants – at the highest level!

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