Quickstart Guide to Understanding Video Poker
Video poker is a popular casino game that combines elements of traditional poker and slot machines. Its retro vibe and simplistic graphics make it a go-to for most old-school gamblers.
It's a game of skill and strategy where your goal is to build the best possible poker hand to win. I've been playing video poker extensively, and I've come to realize something interesting:
It’s one of the games with the lowest house edges in casino gaming, and this makes it a perfect blend of luck and skill for players who enjoy critical thinking next to a bit of understanding of odds.
Video poker has a simple and straightforward gameplay. A typical round consists of:
- You place your initial bets, usually 1 to 5 coins, depending on the machine's limits.
- The RNG (random number generator) will deal you five cards facing up.
- Now, this is where you have the option to discard any cards that don’t help in forming a winning hand.
- The computer will replace the discarded cards with new ones, and the hand evaluation will begin
- This is where your final five-card hand is then evaluated against a predetermined paytable to see if you’ve won. Common poker hands like pairs, three-of-a-kind, flushes, straights, and more are used to determine winnings.
- You will receive your payouts. Payouts are based on the rank of the final hand and the initial bet size. Higher-ranking hands yield larger payouts.
Studying the Hand Rankings in Video Poker
![video poker hand rankings]()
In video poker, the goal is to create a winning combination. Different combinations have different values, which in turn directly influence the payout. The hands are ranked based on standard poker hand rankings. Here are the common poker hands in video poker, ranked from highest to lowest:
- Royal Flush: A, K, Q, J, 10, all of the same suit. This is the highest-ranking hand and typically pays out the highest amount.
- Straight Flush: Five consecutive cards of the same suit (e.g., 8, 9, 10, J, Q of hearts).
- Four of a Kind: Four cards of the same rank (e.g., 7, 7, 7, 7).
- Full House: Three cards of one rank and two cards of another rank (e.g., 3, 3, 3, 8, 8).
- Flush: Five cards of the same suit, not in sequence (e.g., 2, 4, 6, 9, K of diamonds).
- Straight: Five consecutive cards of different suits (e.g., 4 of clubs, 5 of hearts, 6 of diamonds, 7 of spades, 8 of clubs).
- Three of a Kind: Three cards of the same rank (e.g., Q, Q, Q).
- Two Pair: Two sets of pairs (e.g., 5, 5, J, J).
- One Pair: Two cards of the same rank (e.g., 10, 10).
- High Card: If no other hand is made, the highest card in the hand determines the rank. For example, a hand with Ace-King-10-8-2 would be ranked by the Ace.
Different video poker formats have different hands or payouts.
It's essential to check the specific game's paytable to understand the payouts for each hand. A strong understanding of poker hand rankings is crucial for successful video poker play.
Video Poker and Its Amazing Variants
Video poker casinos offer interesting and exciting twists of the original game. This is a great opportunity to understand and learn the flow of the game, especially if you are a beginner.
That is because there are easier video poker variants, just like their more complex and intricate counterparts. Let me give you some examples of popular video poker variants that will surely keep you entertained:
Jacks or Better
A beginner-friendly format where you must have a pair of jacks or higher to win. It’s a simple variant that gives you a better understanding of the game alongside lucrativeness. I had a lot of fun playing it and I can tell you it really teaches you the basics of winning.
Deuces Wild and Jokers Wild
Deuces Wild makes all 2s wild, so they can replace any other card. This offers great flexibility and helps in crafting a winning hand.
Similarly, Jokers Wild (also known as Joker Poker) lets you use the Joker cards to substitute for any other card.
Bonus Poker and Double Bonus Poker
These variations allow for more winning poker hands. Different hands will get different bonus payouts. If you're lucky and skilled enough, paytables for these variants give high sums for premium hands.
Bonus and Double Bonus Poker are very popular in many land-based and online casinos since they are really lucrative.
Tens or Better
In Tens or Better, you'll need at least a pair of Tens. This is a good alternative to Jacks or Better, but you still need to play your cards the smart way.
Aces and Faces
This format prioritizes Aces and face cards (Kings, Queens, and Jacks). In addition, four-of-a-kind hands with Aces or face cards are even more rewarding.
Multi-hand Video Poker Variants
As the name suggests, this variant lets you play multiple hands simultaneously in a game. Most multi-hand video poker games allow you to play up to five hands, but there are also wackier formats with ridiculously more hands to be played at once.
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t actually have better winning chances if you play multi-hand than if you played a standard single-hand round in a specific game. The payouts are essentially the same, and the outcome in multi-hand can be something like this: you will get more of the smaller wins, but if you hit a royal flush, the payout will be considerably lower than if you played a single-hand game.
What’s the Difference Between Land-based and Online Video Poker?
Video poker casinos have evolved tremendously, and many establishments offer quality video poker machines that are often matched only by their online counterparts.
There are some differences you should know about if you’re wondering where and how to play video poker for real money.
| Land-based Video Poker | Online Video Poker |
| Video poker consoles have a certain charm attached to them, and the idea of enjoying them in an authentic, physical casino appeals to many players. | Internet and computers do a great job at simulating the same retro atmosphere of video poker consoles. The main perk is convenience and accessibility. You don’t have to travel to a certain location to enjoy them. That’s also ideal if you wish for a quiet environment. |
| Brick-and-mortar casinos ensure the social aspect of gaming. You can play video poker at your own pace on the chosen machine while still getting to chat with fellow players and get some valuable secrets and insights. | The relaxing idea behind online video poker makes it easier for you to focus and think carefully about your decisions without being distracted. This is good especially if you are a beginner and experiment with free demos beforehand. |
| Land-based video poker may not have that kind of diversity when it comes to games and formats, even if they still offer popular video poker variants. | With online video poker sites, you not only enjoy popular formats and variants, but you also get to try out exciting features like multi-hand formats and benefit from player-friendly options and settings. |
| casinos may offer loyalty programs or promotions, but they are typically limited compared to the bonuses and promotions available at online casinos. | Online casinos frequently provide bonuses, promotions, and loyalty rewards that can significantly boost your bankroll. |
Should You Play Video Poker Online For Real Money?
Video poker is one of my favorite casino games, but I will be as impartial as possible regarding this matter.
I suggest you think about this from two points of view.
First, consider the importance of responsible gambling and how you should treat the game as a form of entertainment.
Second, know that video poker can really work in your favor when it comes to potential winnings. That’s because it has a considerably low house edge and favors skill and not just luck. This means you can make a decent income out of your video poker games, but in terms of a rewarding experience.
I want to remind you that video poker won’t make you a millionaire, as retired pro players always stress, but it gives you the opportunity to improve your critical thinking and decision-making skills and rewards you for your cleverness.
So, you could try and play at video poker casinos for real money, but keep your habits in check and do not bet more than you can afford to lose. Because losing is a very occurrent probability in every casino game.
Play Free Video Poker To Train Your Mind Muscles!
As I said, video poker is a game of skill and luck, and these two blend into one another so smoothly that you’re going to have a relaxing time by playing casually.
But I still suggest you give free demos a shot before venturing into the real deal. First, it’s completely free and you don’t need to create an account or deposit any real money. It’s fast, simple, and fun.
Second, it’s the best way to improve your skills and gain enough confidence and wisdom to play video poker online for real money the right way.
If you understand these, then it’s time to jump into some training. Head over to our list of free video poker games and search for a game variant that you want to practice, such as Jacks or Better, or Deuces Wild.
You’ve found it? Nice! Then start it and let’s go craft those winning hands.
Remember to play strategically, even if we’re talking about a free version where you don’t have anything to lose. Treat the demo as you’d treat a real money gaming situation.
![Urgent Games Jacks or Better Video Poker Casinos]()
Urgent Games Jacks of Better
Keep This In Mind When Playing Video Poker For Real Money
Video poker casinos offer great times, and each variation comes with its own quirks and exciting features. However, do not underestimate the value of playing strategically and adapting to each situation.
While there are specific tactics for each variation, below you will find a few tips and tricks that work universally and will greatly help you no matter what video poker game you choose to play.
Always consult the paytable
![video poker casinos paytable]()
Besides learning the rules of the game you are playing, keep in mind that every online video poker machine is different and will pay out various amounts for winning hands. Therefore, the best thing you can do to ensure that your gaming experience goes as planned is to always consult the paytable of a game beforehand.
Become accustomed to what pays and how much money you can earn with various combinations of cards. In this way, you can adapt your strategy accordingly.
Always Choose Low Pairs Over a High Card
![video poker casinos low pairs]()
If you have a high card in your initial hand and a pair of a lower rank, hold the pair. You have better odds of winning with one pair than a simple high card if you don’t get something better after drawing.
Break Up Your Straights and Flushes When Right
![video poker casinos break straights and flushes]()
Did you get a straight or a flush with high chances of turning into a royal flush or a straight flush when the right cards are drawn? Then, it might be a good idea to break it up. However, you should always weigh your options carefully before doing so.
Consider Playing the Game With Five Coins
![video poker casinos five coin]()
If you are confident in your abilities and have a comfortable bankroll, betting the maximum amount at a video poker game can actually be advantageous.
It most certainly sounds risky, but if you are adept at playing video poker, betting max coins is quite profitable.
Video poker machines often offer a bonus payout for hitting a royal flush when you bet the max coins. It also enhances your overall payback percentage. Video poker games have varying payback percentages, and they usually get better when you bet the maximum coins. Furthermore, betting the max amount allows you to reduce expected losses because you manage to tilt the scales of payback percentages.
Use this tactic wisely and responsibly!
Think About Low Pairs versus Single High Card
![video poker casinos low pairs vs single high card]()
When you’re dealt your hand, chances are you’ll encounter an interesting event: choosing to keep a low pair over a single high card or the other way around.
It’s really important to sharpen your decision-making skills because that will be what will keep you in the game for longer. Tactics differ from one video poker variation to another, and it really helps to know when and what to discard.
Picking the Right Video Poker Casino
It’s not enough to pick the right video poker game or machine. You also have to conduct research and do detective work in your quest to find the perfect playground.
Pick Only From Licensed Casinos
![video poker casinos licenses]()
Many video poker casinos have tantalizing and catchy looks and offers, but sometimes the appearances are deceiving.
Never ignore this crucial step: choosing a reliable online casino.
Players always need to look for licensed platforms. These, such as what's found in our list, have been approved by dedicated regulatory bodies and that’s a reassuring sign telling you that your gaming experience will not be spoiled by scams, frauds, or rigged games.
I cannot stress enough how important fairness, safety and reliability are in this regard. So, look for licensed and audited video poker casinos to be on the safe side.
Study Reviews, Ratings, and Honest Feedback
![video poker casinos reviews and feedback]()
A casino’s quality is the sum of its ratings and reviews. Low ratings and bad reviews clearly indicate the platform’s lousiness and dubiousness.
Conversely, high ratings and positive reviews show that the respective video poker casino treats its patrons well and respects their safety and ensures they have a pleasant experience. It’s always a good idea to go through different discussion forums and reviews and engage with the community to get important insights on what is good or bad about casinos.
Do not overlook Terms and Conditions
These are critical factors that, if neglected, can severely impact your experience. The fine print always contains information on aspects like deposits, payments, bonuses, and other serious topics.
How to Play Video Poker Online
Most video poker casinos provide their clientele with easy-to-use functions and services. What matters most is to be able to create your account and add funds quickly and safely. That’s the first step.
Once you’ve added your funds and agreed with the casino’s terms and conditions, you are free to browse through its game selection. Pick a video poker game that catches your eye and get ready to play.
The majority of video poker games feature the traditional simplistic and beloved interface of the classic physical machines, so it will be very easy to get accustomed to the buttons, not to mention the paytable.
All you have to do now is bet your desired amount or number of coins and hit that deal button. From here on, you will rely on your skills and patience to beat the house.
Payment Options for Video Poker Casinos
When it comes to banking options, players in the have a diverse range of methods to choose from, including the most popular ones like:
- Debit or credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, or Discover
- E-wallets like PayPal or Neteller
- Prepaid cards like Paysafecard
- Bank transfers
Remember
Choose the option that works for you and offers fast and secure payment while protecting your sensitive information.
How Did Video Poker Emerge?
Based on classic five-card draw poker, video poker is a type of casino game that emerged in the 1970s and was played on computerized terminals similar to those of slot machines. The Fortune Bell Company was the first to produce them, but the game didn’t become mainstream until 1979.
This is when Si Redd’s Coin Machines, or SIRCOMA for short, released its first Draw Poker cabinet. This is an interesting piece of information when considering that the very same company evolved into what we know today as International Game Technology or IGT for short.
When the 1990s rolled around, video poker transitioned to the online medium and the game truly gained its status as one of the most popular casino games.
Time To Ace Those Hands
I hope you will have fun exploring the mechanics and strategies of online video poker. This classic game provides hours of entertainment and boosts your mind muscles, but only if you know how to play, where to play, and when to stop.
I recommend warming up with a couple of demo video poker games. These are the perfect tutorials for every newbie and will give you plenty of time to think and come up with the right strategy.
Remember that the best video poker casinos are the ones that are licensed and offer audited and accredited gaming options. Video poker sites should help you relax and enjoy a nice round or two, not catch you in scams, frauds, or impulsive betting. So go ahead and have fun, but watch your back!
