It’s a common starting point for poker newbies for a number of reasons. For one thing, there’s no better way of learning the comparative values of different poker hands than spending half an hour playing video poker. Another draw to the game is that there’s nobody else watching, not even a dealer, so if you make a fool of yourself, it really doesn’t matter.
For all that, though, video poker is not just a training ground for poker newbies. Sit down at any machine or log into a legal online poker site and you’ll see there are perhaps 10 different video poker games to choose from, some of which are definitely best reserved for the more experienced players! Let’s explore the most popular options.
Jacks or Better
The most popular video poker game of them all, Jacks or Better is essentially the “standard” game. It’s the ideal starting point for beginners as there are no complications and there’s a logical structure to the rewards. In standard form, Jacks or Better also delivers respectable returns, as long as it is set to the usual payouts. Check that the full house and flush deliver at least nine to one and six to one respectively. If they don’t, it’s time to start using a different casino.
Joker Poker
As the name suggests, this variation involves playing with a joker in the pack. It acts as a wild card, so it opens up all sorts of new possibilities, including the tantalizing prospect of five-of-a-kind. This is a great one for those who enjoy the strategic side of video poker, and if you get it just right, the house edge drops to less than zero.
Deuces Wild
This tends to be the game that relatively inexperienced players move on to when they feel they are ready for something beyond Jacks or Better. Again, the name says it all, in that the twos serve as wild cards. Naturally, this makes it easier to score a winning hand, so the pay table is adjusted accordingly. Now, you need three of a kind or better for a payout. Again, it’s worth checking the pay table before you start. The thing to look at in Deuces Wild is the reward for four of a kind. It should be at least five to one, and if it is, you can again knock the house edge down to zero if you know what you are doing. However, you’ll need a good bankroll and nerves of steel, as this is one of the more volatile variations of video poker.
Double Bonus Poker
If stinging the casino and walking away with a profit is your main objective, this variation gives you the best chance of success. It’s all about the payout for four of a kind, which increases with rank. The counter is that the reward for a pair is reduced. Like Deuces Wild, it means high volatility, but stick with it and the 100.17 percent RTP will come through for you in the end!
