I've had the idea for a while now to design a battle, rpg type game that uses the dynamics of Poker (texas hold em) as the mechanic. 

Essentially, instead of having "money" and betting that, you would have HP or LP (life points) you would bet. And each time you win a hand, the strength of your hand would determine the strength of your attack on an opponent in addition to how much HP you'd then have available to bet ( after winning a hand). 

The more I think about this, perhaps have two separate bars - HP and MP (magic points ?) , you bet magic points as currency with each betting round and if you win a hand, you not only get all the magic points won during that round, (like the "pot" in standard poker), the strength of your hand ( 3 of a kind, flush, etc.) determines the strength of your attack on an opponent's HP. So winning would be a matter of dwindling your opponent's HP or MP first.

I also even thought about incorporating "elemental suits" into the attacks. Could determine effectiveness or type of attack. 

Winning then would consist of dwindling an opponent's HP. And being the last one standing... thoughts ?  

That's a good idea ! I was thinking of doing that ... honestly, I think the game mechanic itself would work and be fun but I was just wondering how much stuff like attack animation and NPC opponent personality would play role in making it a more enjoyable experience ! I was even toying with the idea of different "deck themes" kind of reminiscent of yugioh just to add an edge of personalization and flair to the game - i'd like other ideas and opinions... I may post a simulation or drawing-board concept of what I'm talking about

offer ideas and opinions people! does this sound enjoyable to you !? 

I agree, prototype it out, see if the Poker Rules line up with what you want from the game. If anything, maybe simplify it a little bit, make it so there's not this long line of one-ups that players have to remember.

It does have potential though.