Bernd Becker 
Video poker is one of almost every gambler’s favorite table games. Its popularity hasn’t waned even since it burst onto the scene in the late 20th century. It offers some of the best odds you can find in online gambling.
If you are familiar with online video poker, you know it requires practice, strategy, and luck. In this guide, we will explore certain strategies that will help you excel at it!
Video Poker Variants and their Pay Tables
There are different types of video. Each of them has their pay tables and strategies for playing them. Some popular video poker variants include:
- Double bonus poker
- Sevens Wild
- Joker’s wild
- Deuces and Joker
- Joker Poker
- 9/6 Jacks or Better
- Deuces Wild
- Aces & Faces
- 2 Ways Royal
The pay tables determine the payouts for each hand in video poker. They will assist you in knowing the hands to discard or hold. Do your research on the poker variants that have the best pay tables and offer the best odds. It is best to select video poker variants with high-paying tables. For example, 9/6 Jacks or Better provides a higher payout for flushes and full houses.
To get some practice, you can start with First Person Video Poker at Starvegas Casino Online. As a new player, you’ll get your deposit doubled (you may get about $1k extra) so you;ll have some free cash to experiment with different strategies.
Pay Attention to Poker Hand Rankings
Video poker hands have ranks based on their value. You need to keep the hand rankings in mind. This understanding will help you know which cards to discard or keep. You will also learn potential winning combinations and identify high-value hands.
For instance, the hand rankings in Deuces Wild range from Three of a Kind as the lowest to Natural Royal Flush as the highest.
Practice First in Demo Mode
You can try a demo version of the game before playing video poker for real money. As a free version, the demo allows players to familiarize themselves with the game’s mechanics without risking real money. You may play with some of the most respected providers. Still you should pay the necessary attention to practice your game in the demo first. Please see details here.
It can also help people practice the techniques in the poker strategy sheet. In fact, some software programs are advanced enough to inform you when you are making a strategic mistake.
Learn the Unique Strategies For Different Poker Variants
Every poker variant has its features and rules. Once you master them, you are on track for a successful betting experience. In Deuces Wild, there are several “wild” cards that will raise your chances of getting a winning hand combination. Keep your deuces so that you can swap them for other options while finishing your winning hand.
Ultimate X Poker is a variant known for its volatility. If you achieve any winning hand in Ultimate X Poker, it might activate a multiplier for the next hand. In Jacks or Better, the best idea is to hold the high cards, which include Kings, Jacks, Queens, and Aces.
Familiarize yourself with the optimal strategy for every poker variant. If possible, memorize the video poker strategy chart. It will teach you the best decisions to make for every hand.
Play the Maximum Coins
When you bet max coins, you can hit a larger payout. For example, a royal flush pays out 250x per coin if you bet one coin and 4000x if you bet five. However, this strategy might deplete your funds a bit quicker.
Nevertheless, remember that video poker involves luck. Wager five coins per round and reduce the value of the coin.
Take Advantage of Bonuses and Promotions
Don’t underestimate the potential of video poker promos to boost your earnings. Look for casinos with user-friendly bonuses. Read the promo’s terms and conditions. Ensure that the bonus’s wagering requirement is favorable.
Wrap Up
Note that practice makes perfect. You can start making big earnings while playing video poker on day one. Try to hone your skills in a risk-free environment and learn the fundamentals and rules of video poker intensely.
