Video Poker

Part slot machine, part single-player 5-Card Draw, Video Poker is a unique amalgamation of two different types of games that combine to create something wholly new. Popular both online and off, video poker has been a favorite game for casino denizens and local fans alike. Unlike slot machines, video poker is often played outside of casinos, sometimes even in bars and convenience stores.

Unlike slot machines, video poker has an element of skill to it, requiring players to make decisions on what cards to keep and which cards to discard. The goal is to (usually) to get a pair of jacks or better to receive a payout. Small pairs will usually payout 1:1, while better hands will give massive payouts. Quad aces or a royal flush will win a player a huge jackpot. The payouts for each machine should be clearly listed, so give it a look before you start playing.

There is, naturally, less strategy than in an actual game of 5-Card Draw where the player would be able to bluff, read the opponents, bet for value, and many of the other common poker tactics. What players can do is make important decisions on what type of hand they’re going for. Do you go for the flush and the big payout or keep your small pair and try again with your guaranteed cash? It is up to the player to decide.

The return of investment (ROI) on video poker machines is usually highest when players bet the maximum amount possible on every hand, to ensure the highest jackpots. The percentage change is very small, though, so don’t blow your bankroll if you’d be able to have more fun for longer by betting less. Otherwise, no betting strategy exists for Video Poker, just intelligent card exchanges.

Some recent video poker programs have started offering new bonus-games to spice up the game. It offers a double or nothing option, where the player has an option to draw for the high card against the computer. Drawing the high card will result in double the returns if they win, but nothing if they lose.

Players can play Video Poker online at most major online casinos. Places such as Golden Palace and Ladbrokes will offer a wide variety of games for any player, including video poker.