what is meant by "blind" in game of poker

[adams]

In the game of poker, a blind is an obligatory wager placed by one or perhaps two participants prior to the distribution of the cards. These blinds play a crucial role in flop-style poker variations like Texas Hold'em and Omaha, as they stimulate the momentum and deter individuals from haphazardly abandoning the game unless they are bestowed with exceptional playing cards.

 

[CR7]

Exactly! In the game of poker, a blind refers to a mandatory bet that players have to make before any cards are dealt. The purpose of blinds is to ensure that there is always some money in the pot, even if no players decide to voluntarily bet or raise. This helps to maintain a level of excitement and action in the game.

In flop-style poker variations like Texas Hold'em and Omaha, there are usually two types of blinds - the small blind and the big blind. The small blind is typically half the size of the big blind. The players sitting to the left of the dealer are usually the ones who are required to post the blinds.

The blinds rotate around the table in a clockwise manner after each hand, ensuring that all players take turns posting the blinds. By having these mandatory bets, the blinds also serve as an incentive for players to stay active in the game. It prevents players from simply folding and waiting for premium hands, as they are forced to invest some of their chips in every hand.

Blinds can vary in size depending on the game and the stakes being played. In higher stakes games, the blinds are usually larger, which creates more pressure to play more aggressively and take calculated risks.

Overall, blinds are an integral part of poker and contribute to the strategic depth and competitive nature of the game. They help to keep the game flowing and ensure that there is always something at stake, even in hands where no one chooses to voluntarily bet.

 

[mosesdera]

The blind structure at different stakes seems like it could really change how a game is played. At lower limits the small blind might not be much to put in, but at higher stakes it's a meaningful opening bet.