Video poker stands as one of the most intriguing and rewarding games in the world of gambling. With the perfect fusion of skill and luck, it offers players not only the thrill of a slot machine but also the strategic depth of poker. For those stepping into this realm for the first time, the game can appear deceptively simple—but beneath its surface lies a wealth of tactics and decision-making that can turn casual spins into long-term gains. This guide dives deep into the fundamentals, strategies, and nuances that can help beginners make informed decisions and elevate their gameplay.
What Is Video Poker?
Video poker is a digital version of five-card draw poker played on a computerized console similar to a slot machine. Unlike traditional slot games that rely purely on chance, video poker allows players to influence the outcome based on their choices. After placing a bet, players are dealt five cards and must choose which cards to hold and which to discard. New cards are then drawn to replace the discarded ones, and the final hand determines the payout according to a fixed paytable.
The most common variation is Jacks or Better, but other popular versions include Deuces Wild, Double Bonus Poker, and Joker Poker, each with its own rules and payout structures.
Understanding the Paytable
Before inserting your first coin or clicking your first bet, take a moment to study the machine's paytable. This table shows how much each hand combination is worth, and it varies from one version of the game to another—even between machines offering the same variant.
For instance, in Jacks or Better, a full pay machine offers 9 coins for a Full House and 6 coins for a Flush (commonly referred to as a "9/6" machine). The higher these numbers, the better your odds. Choosing a machine with the best possible paytable is one of the easiest ways to improve your return on investment.
Learn the Basic Hand Rankings
To succeed in video poker, players need a solid grasp of poker hand rankings. These include:
Royal Flush (A, K, Q, J, 10 of the same suit)
Straight Flush (Five consecutive cards of the same suit)
Four of a Kind
Full House (Three of a kind plus a pair)
Flush (Any five cards of the same suit)
Straight (Five consecutive cards of mixed suits)
Three of a Kind
Two Pair
Jacks or Better (A pair of Jacks, Queens, Kings, or Aces)
Memorizing these hands helps in making faster, more accurate decisions during gameplay.
Always Play Max Coins
One of the most crucial and often misunderstood tips for beginners is to always play the maximum number of coins, usually five per hand. Why? Because many machines offer a disproportionate payout bonus for a Royal Flush when betting the max. For example, betting fewer coins might reward 250 coins for a Royal Flush, but betting all five could yield 800 or even 4,000 coins. The expected value of the game significantly increases when playing max coins.
Start With Jacks or Better
While the world of video poker is rich with variations, beginners are best served starting with Jacks or Better. It offers a straightforward set of rules, a relatively low variance (meaning fewer dramatic swings), and easier decision-making compared to more complex games like Deuces Wild or Double Bonus.
Moreover, the strategy charts for Jacks or Better are well-documented and widely available, making it easier for newcomers to learn optimal play without diving into overwhelming complexities.
Know the Optimal Strategy
The most compelling aspect of video poker is that each game has a mathematically optimal strategy—a precise way to play every possible hand to maximize long-term returns. These strategies are derived using computer simulations and probability calculations.
For beginners, strategy charts can seem intimidating, but they are invaluable tools. With time, memorizing the most common plays becomes second nature. For instance, in Jacks or Better:
Always hold a high pair (Jacks or better).
Break up a low pair if you're one card away from a Straight or a Flush.
Hold four cards to a Royal Flush over a made hand like a low pair.
Free strategy tools and trainers are widely available online and can help sharpen your decisions through simulated play and instant feedback.
Practice With Free Games First
One of the greatest advantages of video poker is that it can be practiced for free. Most online platforms offer demo versions of popular video poker games, giving you the chance to familiarize yourself with different variations, paytables, and strategies without risking a single dollar.
Practicing for free allows you to build confidence, refine your decision-making, and internalize strategies before stepping into a real money environment.
Manage Your Bankroll
Bankroll management is essential for longevity and success in video poker. Even with perfect play, variance and losing streaks are inevitable. Knowing how much to bet and how to pace your play can make the difference between an enjoyable session and a frustrating one.
A good rule of thumb is to bring at least 40 to 50 times your minimum bet for a proper video poker session. If you're playing at $1 per coin and betting the max (5 coins), you'll need $5 per hand, which means a bankroll of $200–$250 would provide a healthy buffer.
Also, avoid chasing losses. Video poker is best approached with a clear mind and disciplined play.
Learn the Differences Between Variants
Once you’ve mastered the basics of Jacks or Better, you might feel inclined to explore other video poker variants. Each comes with its own flavor and set of rules:
Deuces Wild: All twos act as wild cards, dramatically changing the strategy and hand values. While it offers more chances to complete winning hands, it typically requires stronger combinations for payouts.
Double Bonus Poker: This version offers increased payouts for Four of a Kind hands but has a higher variance.
Joker Poker: A wild Joker card is added, creating more winning opportunities but also shifting the expected returns and strategies.
Always review the paytable and strategy for any new variation before wagering real money. A strategy that works for one game can be disastrous in another.
Avoid Common Beginner Mistakes
While playing video poker can seem straightforward, many beginners fall into the same traps:
Not checking the paytable: Assuming all machines pay the same is a costly mistake.
Playing fewer than five coins: You miss out on the biggest payout potential.
Ignoring strategy: Random play or relying on "gut feeling" erodes your advantage.
Chasing losses: Emotional decisions rarely end well in gambling.
Being aware of these pitfalls is the first step toward avoiding them.
Use Rewards and Loyalty Programs
If you’re playing video poker at a physical casino or on a regulated Casino Revolution, always make use of player rewards programs. These systems offer comps, cashback, and tier points that can add significant value over time.
While these rewards won’t overcome poor strategy or a bad paytable, they can sweeten the deal and slightly increase your overall return.
Focus on the Long Game
Unlike other casino games where the house always has a built-in edge, some video poker machines offer a return-to-player (RTP) of over 99% when played perfectly. In rare cases with generous paytables and casino promotions, it’s even possible to find +100% expected value.
This transforms video poker from a mere pastime into a game of skill, patience, and precision. Winning big in the short term is never guaranteed, but those who dedicate time to learning proper strategy will fare far better than the average player.
Final Thoughts
Video poker is a compelling fusion of entertainment and strategy that can reward players who take the time to learn its intricacies. By starting with the basics, understanding the math behind the game, practicing with free versions, and developing sound bankroll habits, beginners can position themselves for long-term success.
It’s not a game of pure luck, and that’s exactly what makes it so engaging. As you grow more familiar with the rules and strategies, video poker transforms from a guessing game into a skill-based challenge—one that’s rich with potential for both fun and profit.
With every hand dealt, you’re not just spinning reels—you’re making choices that matter. And with the right approach, those choices can lead to consistent rewards and a deeply satisfying gaming experience.
