How to Play Video Poker: 9 Video Poker Tips

If you’re looking for a fun and exciting casino game with the potential to win big, video poker may be just what you’re looking for. Unlike traditional poker, video poker is played on a machine, making it accessible and easy to learn. 

But don’t let the simplicity fool you – there are still strategies and tips you can use to increase your chances of winning. In this article, we’ll share nine video poker tips to help you become a more successful player and increase your chances of winning. So, grab a seat at the virtual poker table, and let’s get started!

How Does Video Poker Work?

Before diving into the tips and strategies for winning at video poker, it’s crucial to have a solid understanding of how the game works. Unlike traditional poker, played with other players and a dealer, video poker is played on a machine, similar to a slot machine. The game involves making the best possible five-card hand, with payouts based on the strength of your combination. 

Video poker typically begins with a bet, after which you will be dealt five cards. Then, you can hold or discard any number of these cards to improve your hand. Once the final hand is determined, you are paid out based on the pay table for that specific game.

Video Poker Payout Odds

Video Poker Hands Explained

What Are the Different Video Poker Versions, and Why Does That Matter?

With the steady growth of the online gambling industry in recent years, many different versions of video poker are available. As a result, it can be challenging to know where to start, especially if you have little experience.

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That’s why our experts will explain to you some of the most popular versions of the game so you are prepared for every scenario. Generally, there isn’t too much of a difference between the different video poker versions, which means that the universal tips and strategies we provide will work for all. However, if you want to increase your profits, knowing more about each one will never hurt. So let’s check them out.

Jacks or Better

Jacks or Better is one of the most popular versions of video poker and for a good reason. It’s simple to understand and offers a high payout percentage if you play your cards right. This version aims to create the best possible five-card hand using two dealt cards and five community cards.

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As the name suggests, a pair of jacks or better is the minimum hand required to win. But don’t let the simplicity fool you – there are still plenty of strategies and tips that can help you increase your chances of winning big. From knowing when to hold onto certain cards to understanding the different payout tables, we’ve got you covered with our nine video poker tips you will learn more about today.

Double Bonus Poker

Double Bonus Poker might be just the version for you if you’re looking for a video poker game with a little more excitement and bigger payouts. This game is similar to Jacks or Better but with some bonuses for hitting specific hands, such as four aces or four 2s, 3s, or 4s.

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However, the disadvantage is that the payouts for weaker hands, like two pairs or three of a kind, are slightly lower. Therefore, if you want to win while playing Double Bonus Poker, it’s crucial to understand the game’s unique strategy and payout table.

Deuces Wild/Jokers Wild

If you’re looking for a video poker game that offers a wild twist, Deuces Wild and Jokers Wild are two popular variations you might want to try. In Deuces Wild, all the twos in the deck act as wild cards, which can help you form winning hands more easily.

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Jokers Wild adds joker cards to the deck as wild cards, creating even more opportunities for big wins. While the game mechanics may differ slightly from traditional video poker, the basic strategies still apply. So, following simple tips and tricks can increase your chances of hitting that elusive royal flush or other big payouts.

What Is the House Edge in Video Poker?

Understanding the house edge in video poker is crucial to maximizing your chances of winning. The house edge represents the percentage of all your bets the casino expects to keep over the long term. In video poker, the house edge can vary depending on your game version and paytable.

Some video poker games offer a low house edge, meaning your chances of winning are higher than others. By understanding the house edge in video poker, you can make the correct decisions and choose the game that gives you the best chance of winning.

Increase Your Winning Chances By Using the Best 9 Video Poker Tips

Generally, video poker is a popular casino game that offers you the chance to win big payouts with a combination of luck and strategy. While it may seem simple enough to press the deal button and hope for the best, using the right tips and strategies can significantly increase your chances of winning. 

Whether you’re an experienced poker lover or a beginner, these 9 video poker tips will help you improve your game and increase your chances of winning from the game frequently.

Choose the Best Video Poker Online Casino

If you want to maximize your chances of winning at video poker, choosing the right online casino to play at is important. Look for a casino that offers a wide variety of video poker games and generous bonuses and promotions. Additionally, ensure the casino is licensed and regulated by a reputable governing body, such as the UK Gambling Commission or the Malta Gaming Authority. A platform like this is the ever-popular 888 Casino.

Reading reviews from other players can also help determine which casinos are trustworthy and offer the best overall experience. With the right casino, you can enjoy your favorite video poker games with the peace of mind that your personal and financial information is secure and your chances of winning are optimized by playing games with a lower house edge.

Select the Highest-Paying Video Poker Game

One key factor to consider in video poker is the pay table. Different video poker games can have vastly different payout structures, so choosing the one that offers the highest payouts for winning hands is important.

By selecting the highest-paying video poker game, you’ll give yourself a better chance of winning and maximizing your profits. To know which games offer the best payouts, you must check and compare their pay tables and RTP scores. 

Play Free Video Poker First

Playing free video poker is an excellent way to familiarize yourself with the game and its rules before playing with real money. In addition, free video poker games allow you to practice different strategies and understand the rules without any financial risk.

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Most online casinos offer free video poker games. So, take advantage of this opportunity to practice and refine your skills before taking the plunge into the real money games. If you are looking for a site where you can try video poker for free, 22bet is one of the best options. 

Learn The Essentials of Bankroll Management

Bankroll management is a crucial aspect of video poker that often gets overlooked. However, it can make or break your game. That’s why learning the essentials of bankroll management is one of the most critical tips to help you win at video poker. By understanding how to manage your bankroll correctly, you can ensure that you’re playing within your limits and never risk an amount that will put your well-being at risk. 

It also allows you to play for extended periods without replenishing your funds, ultimately giving you more chances to hit that winning hand. So, before you start playing video poker, take the time to learn about bankroll management to help you maximize your winnings and make the game significantly more fun and relaxing.

Always Hold the Highest Paying Hands

When it comes to video poker, specific hands pay more than others. Therefore, knowing which ones to hold and which to discard is crucial for maximizing your chances of winning. One of the most important tips for playing video poker is always to hold the highest-paying hands. This means holding on to cards that can form a royal flush, straight flush, four-of-a-kind, full house, flush, or straight. 

Doing this increases your chances of hitting a big payout and coming ahead in the long run. So, remember this the next time you’re playing video poker and always aim for the highest-paying hands. But that’s a general strategy for the players who are okay with the high variance. If you are after more frequent payouts, this is not your correct approach. 

Keep a Low Pair Instead of a High Card

One of the most common dilemmas when playing video poker is deciding whether to keep a low pair or a high card. Players usually keep the high card, hoping to land a better hand on the next draw. However, this may not always be the best approach.

Keeping a low pair instead of a high card increases your chances of hitting a three-of-a-kind, which is a powerful winning hand. This is one of the video poker tips that can significantly improve your chances of winning and boost your bankroll. So, remember to hold onto the low pair and see how it plays out.

Avoid Chasing a Straight or a Flush With 3 Connected Cards

Knowing when to hold and fold is essential. One of the players’ most common mistakes is chasing a straight or a flush with three connected cards. In this scenario, it’s best to let it go and try again. 

Holding onto those three cards and hoping for a miracle rarely pays off, and it’s better to focus on building a better hand with the cards you already have. You can keep reading unique video poker strategies to learn more about improving your video poker game.

Don’t Leave a Kicker

Paying attention to the kicker, the additional card accompanying your hand, is essential when playing video poker. If you have a high pair, the kicker is critical for determining the payout. Leaving a kicker on the table can significantly lower your payout potential. So always hold on to the kicker card that will give you the best possible payout.

Look for the Most Generous Bonuses

Taking advantage of the most generous bonuses available is essential to increase your chances of winning big at video poker. Look for online casinos offering promotions and bonuses for video poker players. These bonuses boost your bankroll, allowing you to play longer and potentially hit more winning hands.

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Read the terms and conditions carefully to ensure you understand the requirements for receiving and using these bonuses. With the right bonus, you could significantly increase your chances of walking away from the virtual video poker table as a winner.

Never Rush

When playing video poker, staying patient and never rushing is essential. Instead, take the time to analyze each hand, strategize, and make the best decision possible. Rushing can lead to mistakes, missed opportunities, and lost money. 

Remember that video poker is a game of skill, and your decisions can impact your chances of winning. So take a deep breath, stay focused, and take your time. Keeping a clear head and avoiding hasty decisions can increase your chances of winning big at video poker.

Final Words

Playing video poker is an exciting way to win money while having fun. Always choose the highest-paying game, manage your bankroll, and keep a cool head.

Playing free video poker first can help you practice and understand the game better while taking advantage of the best bonuses can give you an extra edge.

By following our experts’ tips, you’ll be on your way to becoming a video poker master and hopefully winning big!

FAQ

What is the Best Video Poker Game for Beginners?

Jacks or Better is the best video poker game for beginners. It’s simple to learn and has a low house edge.

Can I Play Video Poker for Free?

Yes, most online casinos offer free video poker games for players to try out and practice their skills.

What is the House Edge in Video Poker?

The house edge in video poker can vary depending on the game and the paytable. Generally, the house edge ranges from 0.5% to 5%.

Is It Possible to Actually Win at Video Poker?

Of course! Using proper strategy and bankroll management can significantly increase your chances of winning and having fun at the video poker tables.