Video Poker Online vs. in a Casino: Benefits and Drawbacks

Video poker, much like other casino mainstays, predates its online incarnation. It was a massive hit in physical casinos across the globe long before the internet became a common fixture. Now, it's also a huge success on the premier online casino game sites here in Ireland.

There are plenty of perks to playing video poker online. However, some players still swear by the traditional casino atmosphere. Next, we'll go over the main pros and cons of the online version when stacked against a classic video poker machine.

Online vs. In-Person Video Poker in Ireland

First off, let's get to grips with the differences between the original video poker game and the version you'll find in an Irish online casino:

• Video poker in a casino: This is the classic setup. You play on a dedicated machine, slotting in coins or casino chips to get going. Typically, these machines are found in the main casino floor, nestled amongst the slots and other gaming options. You'll see the cards on a screen and make your selections using physical, old-school buttons.
• Video poker online: The online version is super accessible, playable right in your web browser or via dedicated desktop or mobile apps available.You can find it across the best Irish casino sites, with a whole host of different variants to try. All the action unfolds on your screen, whether that's your PC, tablet, or phone. Plus, many online versions come with tempting bonuses and player perks.

What are the Key Advantages of Playing Video Poker Online in Ireland?

Here are some of the main draws that have made online video poker so popular among players in Ireland:

Convenience, Pure and Simple

Let's be honest, playing video poker online beats trekking to a physical casino any day. You just need to log onto a website or fire up an app and you're straight into the game you fancy. This means you can get your gaming fix anytime, anywhere, no matter the time of day.

Also, depending on the city or country you live in, going to a casino may be out of the question. Many times, there is no casino near your home — or that type of business is just forbidden where you live.

Diversity

Normally, online casinos can offer a greater quantity and variety of games compared to brick-and-mortar casinos. After all, an online platform is not limited by space as much as a traditional place.

The best casino sites can offer dozens of options for different variants of video poker: Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, Joker Poker, and much more. In some cases, there is more than one game available for each version. So, you can always find the best online casino game to play.

Low minimum bets

Online casinos are also more flexible with the value of bets. A classic video poker machine may be limited to one or more betting options. However, an online game can be easily programmed to accept many different types of bets — and even different currencies.

One of the benefits it brings to players is the possibility to bet low values. In many cases, you can bet less than $1.00 on each video poker round.

Deals and promotions

Another advantage of online casinos is the bonuses and promotions they usually offer to users. Competition among sites is high. And promotions certainly help them attract new players — as well as retain the older ones.

It is common to find welcome offers, no-deposit bonuses, free spins, and other benefits on casino sites. For players, this means more playtime and more chances to win. All of this while spending the same amount of money or even less.

Free games available

Another advantage of online casinos is having the opportunity of playing video poker for free. Many sites offer demo versions of video poker. You will get a fictitious balance, then you will be able to play as many rounds as you want to try the game without any expenses.

Free versions do not allow you to win real money. But they are a good option for you to have fun and better understand the rules of video poker. It is also an alternative to getting to know different versions of the game.

The cons of a Video Poker online casino

Despite all those advantages, some aspects will always weigh against a video poker online casino. Below are the main disadvantages it has when compared to a brick-and-mortar casino.

Atmosphere

The atmosphere of a traditional casino fascinates many people. The best casino rooms have engaging decor and lighting, as well as face-to-face service all-round. Not to mention access to other services, such as restaurants, bars, and performances.

Many people prefer to trade all of this for the convenience of being able to play at home or during their daily commutes. So it really depends on your personal preference.

No social interaction

For those who like to be among other people, playing video poker in a brick-and-mortar casino can also be very interesting. Social interaction can make the experience more enjoyable, especially because you will be among other players, having fun and cheering for each other.