One of the most critical mistakes many video poker players make is not playing the maximum bet, which is often essential for hitting the jackpot. If you’re playing a progressive video poker machine, betting below the maximum can mean missing out on potentially life-changing sums of money when you hit a royal flush or other high-paying hands.
Understanding Video Poker Variations
Before diving into specific strategies, it’s crucial to understand that not all video poker games are created equal. From Jacks or Better to Deuces Wild and Double Bonus Poker, each game has its own set of rules and optimal strategies.
Choosing the Right Game
For beginners, a game like Jacks or Better is usually recommended due to its straightforward strategy and high payout percentage. More seasoned players might prefer Deuces Wild because of its increased volatility and the fun of playing with wild cards.
Learning the Pay Tables
Each video poker variant comes with its own pay table, which outlines the payouts for various hands. A key tip is to look for machines that offer 9/6 pay tables on Jacks or Better games — that is, nine coins for a full house and six for a flush. These machines typically offer the best return to the player (RTP).
Mastering Basic Video Poker Strategy
A fundamental video poker strategy can dramatically increase your chances of winning.
Always Hold Royal Flush, Straight Flush, Four of a Kind
These are the top-paying hands in virtually all video poker games, and if you’re lucky enough to be dealt one of these, make sure to keep all the cards to ensure the best payout.
The Strategy of the Draw
When you’re dealt a hand, you need to decide which cards to keep and which to discard. For example, if you have four cards to a royal flush, it makes sense to hold these four and ditch the fifth card, regardless of its value, in hopes of hitting the royal.
Dealing with Low Pairs
In most scenarios, it’s advisable to hold low pairs. Even though they might not pay immediately, they offer the potential to draw into three of a kind, full houses, or even four of a kind, all of which provide higher payouts.
Bankroll Management
Proper bankroll management is essential in video poker to sustain your play and increase your chances of hitting a big payout.
Set a Loss Limit
Before playing, decide on the amount of money you are comfortable losing. Stick to this limit to avoid any financial strain.
Sizing Your Bets Wisely
While it’s important to bet the maximum to qualify for the highest jackpots, make sure your bet size aligns with your overall bankroll. If maximum bets deplete your bankroll too quickly, find a machine that allows lower max bets while still offering good payouts.
Advanced Video Poker Tips
For those looking to deepen their video poker expertise, consider these advanced tactics.
The Importance of Speed
Video poker is not only about strategy but also about speed. The faster you play, the more hands you can get through, increasing your chances to hit a high-paying hand. However, make sure your speed doesn’t sacrifice accuracy in your strategies.
Utilizing Casino Bonuses
Take advantage of casino comps and bonuses, which can effectively increase your return on investment. Many casinos offer loyalty programs that reward video poker play with cashback, free play, or other perks.
Practice Makes Perfect
Many online platforms offer free video poker games, allowing you to practice without risking any money. Utilize these to hone your strategy and get comfortable with the game mechanics before hitting the casino floor.
By understanding the game variations, mastering the basic strategies, managing your bankroll wisely, and learning advanced tips, you’re well on your way to improving your video poker play. Always remember, gambling should be fun and played responsibly.
