What is the "kill" in a poker game?

[ProGambler]

In poker, the term "kill" refers to a special rule that can be applied in certain cash games or limit poker games, usually in stud or stud-like variants such as Stud Hi-Lo or Razz. The kill is an optional rule that increases the stakes and alters the betting structure temporarily.

When the kill is in effect, it means that a specific player, often determined by the dealer button or a rotating button, must post an additional forced bet in addition to the regular forced bets (such as the ante or the bring-in). The kill bet is typically double the amount of the regular forced bet.

The purpose of the kill is to stimulate more action and increase the size of the pots. It can add excitement to the game and generate larger betting rounds. The kill is usually employed in games where the action is relatively low, and it helps to liven up the game by introducing larger betting opportunities.

 

[CR7]

When the kill is in effect, the player who is required to post the kill bet will have a few options. They can choose to simply post the kill bet, which means they are voluntarily putting in the extra money to increase the stakes. Alternatively, they can choose to "half-kill," which means they post half of the kill bet amount.

If the player who is supposed to post the kill is already in a forced bet position, such as the bring-in in Stud games, they may have the option to "check-raise" instead of posting the kill bet. This allows them to check when it is their turn to act and then raise after another player has bet.

Once the kill is in effect, the betting structure of the game usually becomes altered. This means that the betting limits for that specific hand are increased. For example, if you are playing a $2/$4 limit game and the kill is activated, the betting limits could temporarily become $4/$8.

It's important to note that the kill can be applied in different ways depending on the specific game and the house rules. Some variations may only allow the kill to be activated under certain conditions, such as when a player wins a particular pot or when a certain hand combination is dealt.

Overall, the kill is a rule in poker that adds an additional forced bet and increases the stakes temporarily, making the game more exciting and potentially leading to bigger pots. It is most commonly used in stud or stud-like variants and can be a fun way to spice up the action at the table.