Poker is a game of strategy, skill, and a sprinkle of luck. For players who enjoy high-stakes action, the concept of running a hand twice (commonly referred to as “running it twice” or “2x”) can make things even more exciting. Combined with the idea of side pots, it can initially seem a bit tricky, but it’s quite simple once you understand it. Let’s break it down step by step.
What Does “Running It Twice” Mean?
Running it twice is an agreement between players to deal the remaining cards of a hand in two separate runs after all players are all-in. Each run will produce its own outcome, which means there are two chances for someone to win the pot. The original pot is split into two equal parts, with each run determining the winner of its respective half.
This approach is often used in cash games to reduce variance. By splitting the pot into two runs, players minimize their risk of losing everything to an unlucky card while still having a shot at winning some of the money.
What Are Side Pots?
In poker, side pots occur when at least one player has a smaller stack than others in the hand. Once that player goes all-in, any additional bets placed by players with larger stacks go into a separate “side pot” that only they can contest.
Here’s an example to clarify:
- Player A has $100.
- Player B has $200.
- Player C has $300.
If Player A goes all-in for $100, Player B and Player C can still continue betting against each other. Player A can only win the amount they contributed from each opponent, creating a “main pot.” Any extra bets made by Player B and Player C go into the “side pot.”
Combining Running It Twice and Side Pots
When a game involves both side pots and running it twice, the mechanics can feel a bit complicated, but they’re easy to follow once broken down.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Identify the Main and Side Pots
Separate the chips into the main pot and the side pot(s) based on the all-in amounts. Each player can only compete for the pots they contributed to. - Split the Pots for Two Runs
Both the main pot and any side pots are divided equally. Half of each pot is allocated to the first run, and the other half to the second. - Run the Board Twice
The remaining community cards are dealt in two sequences, each one being a complete run to determine a winner. - Assign Winners for Each Run
For the main pot, the winner of the first run takes half of it, and the winner of the second run gets the other half. The same process applies to side pots, where only eligible players (those who contributed) can win.
Example of Running It Twice with Side Pots
Let’s look at a hypothetical hand to see how this works:
- Player A: Goes all-in with $100.
- Player B: Goes all-in with $200.
- Player C: Goes all-in with $300.
Step 1: Create the Main and Side Pots
- Main Pot: $300 (the maximum amount all players can contest).
- Side Pot 1: $200 (contested between Player B and Player C).
- Side Pot 2: $100 (contested only by Player C).
Step 2: Split for Two Runs
- The main pot is split into two $150 portions.
- Side pot 1 is split into two $100 portions.
- Side pot 2 is split into two $50 portions.
Step 3: Run the Board Twice
- The dealer deals one set of community cards for the first run, followed by another set for the second run.
Step 4: Determine Winners
- For the main pot, Player A, Player B, and Player C are eligible. Each winner takes $150 from the respective run.
- For side pot 1, only Player B and Player C are eligible. Each winner takes $100 from the respective run.
- For side pot 2, only Player C is eligible. They automatically win both $50 portions.
Why Use Running It Twice with Side Pots?
This combination of rules is especially popular in cash games involving large pots because it helps reduce emotional swings and financial risks. Here’s why players might prefer it:
- Lower Variance
Splitting the pot between two runs means you’re less likely to lose everything to one bad beat. - Fairer Outcomes
With side pots, players only compete for the portion of the pot they’re entitled to, ensuring fairness regardless of stack size. - Encourages Aggression
Knowing there’s less at stake in each run can encourage players to play more aggressively, leading to exciting hands.
Tips for Understanding Side Pots and Running It Twice
If you’re new to poker or these concepts, here are a few pointers:
- Pay Attention to Stack Sizes
Before the hand begins, note how much each player has in their stack. This helps you predict how pots will be divided. - Ask for Clarification
In live games, don’t hesitate to ask the dealer to explain the pots if things get confusing. - Practice Online
Many online poker platforms support running it twice and automatically handle the calculations, making it a good way to learn.
Final Thoughts
Combining side pots with running it twice adds an extra layer of complexity to poker, but it ultimately enhances the game’s fairness and excitement. By understanding how these rules interact, players can better navigate high-stakes situations and enjoy the thrill of poker with less stress. So, the next time you’re all-in and someone suggests running it twice, you’ll know exactly what’s happening at the table!