What Does Live Blind Mean in Poker?
A live blind is a bet made before receiving cards, typically to start the action in a poker hand. It often comes with the option to raise when the action returns to the player. You can play poker online to experience various strategies involving live blinds.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Live Blind
Live blinds are commonly mentioned in home games or casual poker settings where players agree on this rule to induce action and create a bigger pot from the beginning.
In-Game Example
In a casual game, the player to the left of the dealer posts a live blind of $5 before the cards are dealt. After the initial round of betting, the action returns to them, and they have the option to raise, adding more dynamics to the hand.
Strategy / Tips
- Best Practice: Use live blinds to create action and leverage your position when you have the option to raise.
- Common Mistake: Posting a live blind without a plan for how to proceed if the pot is raised heavily.
- Pro Tips: In games where live blinds are frequent, adjust your strategy to anticipate the extra bets and pots.
- Differences Playing Over the Table vs Online: Live blinds are less common online, but knowing the concept can still help in understanding game dynamics in live settings.
Alternative Names
Straddle (commonly used interchangeably in some games).
FAQs
- Q: Can a live blind be raised?
A: Yes, a player posting a live blind generally has the option to raise when the action returns to them. - Q: Is a live blind mandatory?
A: It depends on the house rules or game agreement; often, it is voluntary.
