How to Play Video Poker online
One of the great things about video poker is how engaging it can be. While the game has straightforward rules and moves fast, it also requires players to do more than just hit buttons and hope for the best. It's a game where a bit of thinking can go a long way.
What does that mean? Simply put, you'll need to use your brain to truly get the most out of video poker. It involves understanding the odds after you see your first cards and then deciding which ones to hold onto. This decision-making makes it more interesting than just a game of chance.
The truth is, video poker can be both fun and a good mental workout. That's why we've put together this quick guide to help you enjoy every round to the fullest – with fun, and who knows, maybe some winnings in your pocket too.
Video Poker Rules: How to Play
The general rules of video poker are quite easy to pick up. The gameplay might differ slightly depending on the video poker variation you choose. However, the core elements stay the same. This means you won't have too much trouble switching between different versions.
Unlike other poker games, this is a solo game. You're the only one getting cards. Instead of comparing your hand against other players or the casino dealer, your goal is to achieve a winning combination based on the game's paytable.
Here's how it typically works:
- First, you need to choose the value of your bet.
- Next, click the 'DEAL' button to see your initial five cards.
- Look at your cards, decide which ones to keep, and then click 'HOLD'.
- Then, click 'DRAW' to get new cards to replace the ones you discarded.
- If you've formed a winning combination, you'll automatically get a prize according to the paytable.
Some steps might differ based on the version you're playing. For instance, some games offer an 'auto-hold' feature that automatically selects cards to keep.
In any case, remember that cards are dealt randomly, much like with online slots here in Zambia. You can try using strategies to win at video poker, but you can't predict exactly which cards the game will give you.
Winning Hands in Video Poker
Those who have played other versions of poker will quickly recognize the possible card combinations in video poker. After all, they include the most popular — and desirable — options, such as Royal Flush, Full House, or Two Pairs.
Depending on the variation you are playing, some combinations will be possible and others will not. Therefore, it is important to check the paytable displayed on the screen before you start.
The payouts for each combination obtained are calculated according to the odds of getting them. In other words, the harder it is to get a winning hand, the higher the prize you will receive. The paytable may vary slightly in each game, but generally follows a similar structure.
Below, we list the most common hand rankings and payouts in the main variations of video poker.
Jacks or Better
In this version of video poker, the main feature is the possibility of winning with a simple pair of Jacks, Queens, Kings, or Aces. Typically, when you get a Jacks or Better combination, the payout is equal to the amount of the bet you placed.
- Royal Flush: 1 to 250
- Straight Flush: 1 to 50
- Four of a Kind: 1 to 25
- Full House: 1 to 9
- Flush: 1 to 6
- Straight: 1 to 4
- Three of a Kind: 1 to 3
- Two Pairs: 1 to 2
- Jacks or Better: 1 to 1
Deuces Wild
In this other version of video poker, the main feature is the presence of wild cards. All cards with a value of 2 (the deuces) can be used to substitute for other cards.
Naturally, this changes the entire payout structure. At the same time, it requires a bit more attention when choosing which cards to keep in your hand or discard.
- Natural Royal Flush: 1 to 800
- Four Deuces: 1 to 200
- Wild Royal Flush: 1 to 25
- Five of a Kind: 1 to 15
- Straight Flush: 1 to 10
- Four of a Kind: 1 to 4
- Full House: 1 to 4
- Flush: 1 to 3
- Straight: 1 to 2
- Three of a Kind: 1 to 1
FAQ
How to play Video Poker?
To begin, you need to select a reputable and high-quality online casino that offers Video Poker. Once you've chosen, deposit funds into your account and pick a version of the game you'd like to play, such as Jacks or Better or Deuces Wild. Next, start the game, set your desired bet amount, and click on DEAL. Review the initial cards you receive and decide which ones you wish to hold and which to discard. Finally, await the new cards to see if you've formed a winning hand.
What are the winning hands in Video Poker?
The winning hands in Video Poker can differ based on the specific game version you are playing. Some common winning combinations include a Royal Flush, Full House, Four of a Kind, and Two Pairs. For instance, in the Jacks or Better variant, you can secure a win with just a pair of Jacks, Queens, Kings, or Aces. In the Deuces Wild version, the 2s act as wild cards, allowing you to form winning hands more easily.
What are the rules for playing Video Poker?
Typically, Video Poker is played with a standard 52-card deck. Your first step is to choose your bet amount, as the potential payout will depend on the size of your wager. After receiving your initial five cards, you must decide which cards to keep (hold) and which to discard, aiming to form the best possible winning hand. Once you receive new cards to replace the discarded ones, if you have a winning combination, you will receive a payout according to the game's paytable.
