Ready for more action? If Texas Hold’em is the Cadillac of poker, Pot Limit Omaha (PLO) is the Ferrari.
Omaha is the second most popular poker game globally. The pots are bigger, and the strategy is deeper. This guide covers the core rules of Pot Limit Omaha (PLO), simplified for clarity.
1. The Golden Rule: “2 Plus 3”
In Omaha, you get 4 Hole Cards. But there is one strict rule that confuses beginners:
In Hold’em, A♠ + 4 spades on board = Flush. In Omaha, this is impossible because you must use 2 cards from your hand.
✅ Your Actual Hand: Pair of Kings (K♠ + K♥) and Pair of Twos (Board).
2. Hand Strength Inflation
In PLO, everyone has 4 cards, so average hand strength is much higher. High pair is not enough.
| Hand Strength | Hold’em | Omaha (PLO) |
|---|---|---|
| Top Pair | Strong Hand | Weak / Bluff Catcher |
| Overpair (AA) | Monster | Vulnerable |
| Two Pair | Winning Hand | Marginal |
| The “Nuts” | Rare | Essential target |
3. How to Calculate “Pot Limit”
In Pot Limit, the maximum raise is the size of the pot. The formula is: 3x last bet + remaining pot.
4. Core Strategy Concepts
Master these concepts to stop playing like a “Hold’em player” in an Omaha game.
1. Wraps (Mega Draws)
In Hold’em, a straight draw has 8 outs. In PLO, a “Wrap” (e.g., T-9-8-7 on 6-5-x) can have up to 20 outs.
2. The “Nuts” Only
If you have a Jack-high flush, someone likely has the Ace-high flush. In PLO, draw to the absolute best hand.
3. Blockers
Holding the A♠ on a 3-spade board (without a flush) lets you bluff effectively by representing the nut flush.
4. Danglers
Avoid hands like A♠K♠J♦2♣. The “2” is a dangler that effectively forces you to play with only 3 useful cards.
Common Questions (FAQ)
Looking for Softer Games?
PokerOffer connects you with exclusive poker sites featuring softer fields and high-value player benefits.
Find Your Edge
