
What Does Kill Mean in Poker?
A ‘Kill’ is a forced bet made by a player after winning a certain number of consecutive hands or scooping a pot of a specified size. This rule is often used in split-pot games to increase the stakes temporarily.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Kill
In games like Omaha Hi-Lo or other split-pot games, where players might mention a ‘Kill’ after a big hand or a series of wins to increase the action.
In-Game Example
Imagine you’re playing Omaha Hi-Lo, and you’ve just won two consecutive pots. The table implements a ‘Kill’ pot rule, meaning for the next hand, you must post an additional ‘Kill’ bet, effectively doubling the stakes for that round.
Strategy / Tips
- Best Practice: Recognize when a ‘Kill’ is about to be implemented and adjust your strategy to account for higher stakes.
- Common Mistake: Failing to adapt your playstyle when a ‘Kill’ pot is active, leading to unnecessary losses.
- Pro Tips: Use the knowledge of a ‘Kill’ to pressure opponents who may be uncomfortable with higher stakes.
- Differences Playing Over the Table vs Online: In live games, players might be more conservative with ‘Kill’ pots due to physical tells, whereas online poker players may be more aggressive due to anonymity.
Alternative Names
Sometimes referred to as “Kill Pot” or simply “Kill Rule.”
FAQs
- Q: What happens if a player refuses to post a Kill bet?
- A: Typically, players must post the Kill bet or sit out the hand, depending on house rules.
- Q: Are Kill pots common in all poker games?
- A: No, they are more common in split-pot games like Omaha Hi-Lo.
Related Terms
- Split Pot
- Omaha Hi-Lo