Are you a poker fan? You have a massive range of poker games to play online, including live and virtual titles. One of the most popular poker variants is Texas Hold’em: players use two hole cards and five community cards to create the best possible hand.
Tempest Hold’em Poker provides players with an original version of this classic card game, with new and fascinating features to discover. What makes it stand out from other poker games, and how do you play it? Read our Tempest Hold’em Poker guide to find out.
What is Tempest Hold’em Poker?
Tempest Hold’em Poker is a poker variant available at PokerStars. It is a different take on standard Texas Hold’em, with a bold structure that should appeal to newcomers and seasoned players alike.
The big difference between PokerStars’ variant and the standard game is that players have just two pre-flop actions available — all-in and fold. Usually, players can call or check, too, but this narrows their options to streamline the gameplay.
This game also features a giant blind alongside the familiar big and small blind. This is worth two big blinds.
Our recommended sites to play Tempest Hold’em poker:
Tempest Hold’em Poker Rules: How to Play
If you already know how to play poker, you should find the rules of this game fairly simple to pick up. Here are the main points you need to know before you try Tempest Hold’em Poker:
- The maximum number of players in a game is capped at six.
- Players are dealt two starting (hole) cards. Five community cards are dealt to the table. You need to build the strongest hand you can using a combination of these cards. The player with the best poker hand (e.g. royal flush, straight flush) wins.
- You can only fold (discard your hand) or go all-in (bet all of your remaining chips). This limits your options and creates a faster pace than you would find in standard Texas Hold’em.
- Each player can only make up to 10 giant blinds (or 20 big blinds, as giant blinds are worth two of these). This bet is posted by the player to the big blind’s left.
- When all six players at the table fold, the ante for the next hand increases. This boosts the size of the prize pot and takes the stakes to another level.
- If at least two players go all-in, a showdown will begin (as in standard Texas Hold’em). The ante will then reset for the next round.
Due to the fast pace, it is worth learning the rules in detail before you play Tempest Hold’em Poker for the first time. This will help you follow the action and understand what may happen at each stage of the game.
Tips for Playing Tempest Hold’em Poker Online
Here are three tips to help you prepare for this poker variant:
- Watch before you try: If possible, watch a few games unfold before you decide whether to play. This will give you a clear idea of how the gameplay progresses.
- Think about your actions: Tempest Hold’em Poker only offers two pre-flop options, but you still need to consider them carefully before you decide. Even if a game is moving quickly, give yourself the time you need to make the right decision for you. If you rush and go all-in without thinking clearly, you could lose your money within seconds.
- Manage your bankroll with care: Proper bankroll management is a must when playing any game. Set a limit for yourself for each round and avoid pushing yourself into actions you know are unwise just to keep up with other players. Recognise your cut-off point and bow out at the right time.
Tips for Playing Tempest Hold’em Poker Online
Conclusion
Tempest Hold’em Poker offers an unusual way to play the classic card game. The reduced pre-flop options encourage quicker gameplay, and the potential for increasing antes can build large prize pots over multiple rounds.
As with playing any poker variant, gamble responsibly when you try this game: set a comfortable limit for yourself and monitor your bankroll properly. Understand how the game works before you dive in.
If you want to try Tempest Hold’em Poker, you can play it at PokerStars today. Prefer to try something else? Find other trusted places to play in Gambling Zone’s guide to the best online poker sites in the UK.
