How to Play Video Poker online

One of the main draws of video poker is its dynamic nature. While the game boasts simple rules and a fast pace, it requires more from the player than just hitting buttons and hoping for the best.

What does this mean? Simply put, you'll need to use your noggin if you want to truly get the most out of video poker. It involves understanding the best odds you have after seeing your initial cards, then deciding which ones to hold onto.

The truth is, video poker can be both fun and a bit of a mental challenge. That’s why we’ve put together this quick guide to help you enjoy every round to the fullest. Get ready for some craic and, who knows, maybe a nice bit of profit in your pocket!

Video Poker Rules: How to Play This Engaging Game

The general rules for video poker are pretty straightforward. The exact gameplay might vary a bit depending on the variation of video poker you choose. However, the core mechanics stay the same, so you’ll find it easy to switch between different versions.

Unlike other poker games, this is a solo affair. You’re the only one getting cards. Instead of going head-to-head with other players or the dealer, your aim is to create a hand that pays out according to the game’s paytable.

Here’s how it works:

1. First, pick your bet level.
2. Next, hit DEAL to get your initial five cards.
3. Study your cards, decide which ones to keep, and give HOLD a click.
4. Then, press DRAW to get new cards in place of those you discarded.
5. If you land a winning combination, you’ll automatically get a payout based on the paytable.

Some steps might differ slightly depending on the game version. For instance, some versions allow you to use an auto-hold feature, which intelligently selects cards to keep for you.

Regardless, remember that cards are dealt randomly, much like with online slots. You can try employing strategies to win at video poker, but you can’t predict the exact cards the game will give you.

Understanding Video Poker Hands

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