Badugi Variations

Badugi – also known as Badeucy or Badacey – is a relatively new draw poker variant that has steadily gained traction over the past decade. It is especially popular in Canada, the United States, South Korea, and China, although it is played in other countries as well. In these regions, Badugi has become a staple poker variant. 

The name “Badugi” is believed to have Korean origins, with “baduk” being a similar term used in the Korean game of Go. While comprehensive academic studies are limited, community discussions and online tournament trends highlight several key regions where the game is particularly popular: 

South Korea

Often considered the heartland of Badugi, its innovative gameplay has resonated strongly with local online poker communities. 

China 

With the rise of digital gaming platforms, Badugi has attracted a growing audience among Chinese poker enthusiasts. 

Taiwan and Hong Kong

Known for their dynamic gaming cultures, these markets have embraced Badugi as an exciting alternative to traditional poker variants. 

Conclusion 

When it comes to global variations, the changes in Badugi are more about tailoring the betting structure and minor rules to suit different playing environments rather than altering the core mechanics of the game. As a modern addition to the world of draw poker, it lacks the extensive region-specific rule sets seen in most older games.