How to Play Video Poker online
One of the main strengths of video poker is how engaging it can be. While the game itself has straightforward rules and a rapid pace, it's not just about pressing buttons and hoping for the best.
What does this mean? Simply put, you need to use your intellect to truly get the most out of video poker. It's about understanding the best odds you're dealt after seeing your initial cards, and then making smart decisions about which ones to hold onto.
The reality is that video poker offers both fun and a good mental challenge. That's why we've put together this quick guide to help you enjoy every round of this game to the fullest – with plenty of fun and, who knows, maybe some good winnings in your pocket.
Video Poker Rules: How to Play the Game in Ghana
The basic rules of video poker are pretty simple to grasp. The exact gameplay might differ slightly depending on the variation of video poker you're playing. However, the core mechanics stay the same. So, you shouldn't have too much trouble switching between different versions.
Unlike other poker games, this is a solo game. Only you get dealt cards. Instead of going head-to-head with other players or the dealer, your aim is to build a hand that matches a winning combination shown on the game's paytable.
Here's how it works:
- First, you’ll need to pick your bet amount.
- Next, hit DEAL to get your first five cards.
- Look at your cards, decide which ones you want to keep, and click HOLD.
- Then, press DRAW to replace the cards you discarded with new ones.
- If you've landed a winning combination, the game will automatically award you a prize based on the paytable.
Some steps might change based on the specific version you're playing. For instance, some games offer an auto-hold feature that automatically selects the cards to keep in your hand.
Either way, remember that the cards are dealt randomly, much like online slot machines. You can try out strategies to win at video poker, but you can't really predict what cards the game will deal you next.
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
FAQ
How do I play Video Poker?
First, you need to select a reputable and high-quality online casino that offers Video Poker. Once you've made your choice, deposit funds into your account and pick one of the popular game versions, such as Jacks or Better or Deuces Wild. Next, start the game, decide on your bet amount, and click 'DEAL'. Review the initial five cards you receive and choose which ones you wish to hold or discard. Finally, new cards will replace the discarded ones, and you'll 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 version you're playing. Some of the most common winning combinations include a Royal Flush, Full House, Four of a Kind, and Two Pairs. In the Jacks or Better variant, you can secure a win with a simple pair of Jacks, Queens, Kings, or Aces. For the Deuces Wild version, the 2s act as wild cards, allowing you to form winning hands more easily.
What are the basic rules of Video Poker?
Video Poker is typically played with a standard 52-card deck. To begin, you select your desired bet amount, and your potential winnings will be determined by this wager. After receiving your initial five cards, your goal is to choose which cards to keep in order to create the best possible winning hand. Once you've made your selection, new cards are dealt to replace the discarded ones. If your final hand forms a winning combination, you'll receive a payout according to the game's paytable.
