Have you always wanted to get into mixed games but never felt like you had the right way in – leaving that itch unscratched and the fun just out of reach?
I was right there with you, stuck dreaming about it but unsure how to start. Now, I’m deep in the chaos, loving every second, and I’ve launched Baldy’s Mix on Twitch, where you can jump in, learn the ropes, and come along for the ride.
Starting in mixed games takes patience, so give yourself some grace. They’re a world apart from no-limit Hold’em, and those deep-seated habits will tug at you. Expect an internal tug-of-war, but trust me: there’s gold in sorting through the madness.
The key is understanding how each game tweaks the basics. Learning to turn those dials up or down will make you a beast of a poker player across mixed games and NLH alike.
Mixed game concepts
Raising to thin the field
Let’s tackle a mixed game concept that trips up a lot of no-limit Hold’em players. In limit poker, it’s often smart to raise – not because you’re sure you’ve got the best hand, but to drive others out of the pot. When it works, your hand’s equity spikes. In NLH, we’d rarely risk this, fearing a big reraise that blows us off our equity. But in limit, a reraise isn’t the end of the world and often justifies the equity gain.
Split pot scoop emphasis
In split pot games like Stud 8/b and Omaha 8/b, the real edge lies in drawing to the low. High-only hands have their moments, but NLH players tend to overvalue them. A low draw gives you a shot to scoop the pot if you backdoor a high and lets you play super aggressive when you hit, either taking it down right away or boosting your odds later. Plus, when your low turns into a monster high, opponents have to credit you for a low-only bet and will pay off your bets endlessly.
Online is the best place to learn
Learning mixed games live can be brutal, with experienced players, strong opinions, and a rushed, intimidating vibe. Plus, the mechanics – more cards, up cards, new betting, discards – take some getting used to.
Learning online first lets you master the basics without pressure, and you’ll see way more hands way faster. Live games stick to the regulars’ chosen mix, and one rotation can take hours. I recommend Phenom Poker. It's got 24+ variants, endless fun, and a community vibe (chat box included!) that keeps it interactive.
Eric Baldwin has won two WSOP bracelets and three Circuit rings. He was CardPlayer Magazine POY in 2009, has more than $9,300,000 in career earnings and is an ambassador for Phenom Poker. Follow Eric Baldwin on X and follow his mixed game journey on Twitch.tv.
