When most players think of casino machines, they immediately picture the bright lights of traditional slots.
Video Poker bridges the gap between the solitary play of a machine and the strategic depth of card games.
It is widely considered the best game in the casino for players who are willing to learn proper tactics.
Because the game uses a standard 52-card deck, the probabilities of hitting specific hands are completely transparent.
We will guide you through the basics of Video Poker strategy and show you how to beat the house edge.
Understanding the Basics of Video Poker
The gameplay is incredibly straightforward, utilizing the standard hand rankings of classic poker.
You can hold all five cards if you are dealt a winning hand, or discard all five if the hand is terrible.
The machine then replaces your discarded cards with new ones drawn randomly from the remaining deck.
To win your bet back in standard games, you usually need at least a pair of Face Cards.
Playing optimally requires memorizing a strategy chart that tells you exactly which cards to hold in every scenario.
How to Spot a "Full Pay" Video Poker Machine
Not all machines are created equal; casinos subtly alter the payouts to increase their house edge.
In the popular game "Jacks or Better," you must always look for a "9/6" machine.
If the machine only pays 8 for a Full House and 5 for a Flush, the house edge increases significantly.
Never settle for a short-pay machine; always seek out the best possible paytables available in the casino.
Betting less than the maximum coins drastically lowers the overall RTP, making it a severe strategic error.
Popular Variants of Video Poker
While Jacks or Better is the most common game, there are several other highly popular variants.
Because hands are easier to make, the lowest winning hand in Deuces Wild is usually Three of a Kind.
A "Full Pay" Deuces Wild machine (often called 100.76%) actually gives the player a mathematical advantage over the house.
These volatile games appeal to players who want larger jackpot hits without relying entirely on the rare Royal Flush.
Always match your tactical approach to the specific rules and paytable of the machine you are sitting at.
Key Tips for Video Poker Players
Always check the paytable before playing. Hunt for 9/6 Jacks or Better. Play Max Bet on every single hand to get the best mathematical RTP. Use a strategy card. Never guess which cards to hold. Never discard a high pair to draw for a straight or a flush. Analyze every hand carefully; a single mistake costs you money.
Identifying Full Pay Machines
Poker HandGreat Machine (9/6)Bad Machine (8/5) Four of a Kind2525 Full House98 Player ReturnExcellentPoor
It completely removes the mindless repetition of slots and replaces it with rewarding, strategic gameplay.
By finding the right machines and playing perfectly, you can stretch your bankroll further than in any other game.
Take the time to learn the strategy charts; it is the most profitable homework you will ever do.
Protect your bankroll by refusing to play anything less than the optimal Full Pay games.
Good luck chasing that elusive Royal Flush, and enjoy the lowest house edge the casino has to offer.