Short Deck Poker: The Rise and Evolution of a Thrilling Game

Short Deck poker, which uses a 32-card deck with cards from five to six, gained popularity in Macau in 2014-2015. The game, known as 6+, developed ideas from Manila poker, which is popular in Australia. It features a 28 or 32-card deck, uses blinds and ante, and has a flush stronger than a full house.

Phil Ivey and Tom Dwan praised Short Deck poker for its constant action, large pots, and the importance of skill despite the increased element of chance. Dwan noted, "I like playing 6+. You should like it too, but be careful."

Short Deck poker spread to online platforms, with PokerKing Asia hosting hundreds of tables with ante up to $300 at its peak. Many Russian poker players, including Sergey vedevas Lebedev and Mikhail inner Shalamov, were introduced to Short Deck poker through Trueteller. Short Deck poker was added to the iPoker network in 2016, under the name Six Plus Holdem.