As a professional in the field of poker, particularly Texas Hold'em, I can provide a comprehensive answer to your question regarding the use of aces in the game. In Texas Hold'em, aces can indeed serve as the highest or the lowest card in a straight, depending on the specific hand and the rules of the game being played.

In standard Texas Hold'em, a straight is a sequence of five consecutive cards of any suit. Aces can be used as the highest card in a straight, such as a 10-J-Q-K-A, which is known as a "broadway" straight. However, the unique aspect of Texas Hold'em is the ability to use an ace as the lowest card in an "A-2-3-4-5" straight, commonly referred to as a "wheel." This is the lowest possible straight and is still considered a valid straight in the game.

The use of aces as low in a straight is not exclusive to Texas Hold'em; it is a feature of most poker variations that allow for straights. The key here is the concept of "straights" and "wheels" in poker. A straight is a hand that contains five cards in sequential order, and a wheel is a specific type of straight that starts with an ace and ends with a five.

In any other context, such as in a flush or a full house, aces are always considered the highest-ranking card. For example, in a flush, if you have all the cards of the same suit, the ace will be the highest possible card contributing to the strength of the hand.

It's also important to note that the ability to use an ace as low in a straight can significantly impact the strategy of the game. Players must consider the possibility of an opponent making a wheel when they see a low ace on the board, especially in situations where the board is showing a potential for a straight draw.

In conclusion, the versatility of the ace in Texas Hold'em adds an extra layer of complexity and strategy to the game. Understanding when and how to use an ace as either high or low in a straight is crucial for any player looking to improve their game.

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1 Answer. Aces may indeed be used as low in a straight in holdem. A2345 is the lowest possible straight, also sometimes called a "wheel." In any other context, aces will be ranked higher than other cards.Nov 13, 2014read more >>