Video Poker Strategy

Video poker strategy is a big subject because each variation of the game requires a slightly different strategic approach. That said, the online video poker beginner can improve his chances of winning by adopting a basic video poker strategy that applies to almost all games. Here’s what we recommend:

Check the Payout
When playing online video poker you should always shop around for the best payout deal. This means looking for the machine that will give you the best payout percentage overall. If a Jacks or Better machine at one casino has a payout of 98% and another has a payout of 90%, the former is obviously the one to play at.

Play Maximum Coins
In order to get the advertised percentage payout, it is often necessary to play the maximum number of coins permitted, as this is often the only way you can qualify for the jackpot. You should therefore play the maximum number of coins if at all possible.

Establish A Bankroll
Before you play any video poker machine, you should make sure you have sufficient funds available to give yourself a decent chance of winning. Risking your last pound on an all-or-nothing hand is more likely to result in you walking away with nothing.

Discard Kickers
Kickers (single high cards) are of even less value in video poker than they are in regular poker, so don’t draw four and hold one unless a pair would win you money. Instead, discard the kicker and draw five.

Keep A Pair
Even if the pair is not big enough to give you a payout, you should keep a pair and draw three in the hope of making two pair or three of a kind or better. When you keep a pair, do not also keep a stray high card because that will reduce your odds over the long term.

Keep Four To A Big Hand
If you are dealt four cards and you are one away from a big hand (for example, a straight flush) keep those four and draw one. You’ll only hit once in a while but this is the best decision overall.

Keep A Five Card Winner
If you get a five-card winning hand such as a flush or straight, keep it. The only exception to this rule is if you can draw one to a royal flush. Even then, if you are holding a straight flush you would be better off keeping it than drawing for the royal.

This is the simplest and most basic video poker strategy available, and you will probably progress to a more advanced approach when you have some experience of the game. However, beginners who play the game with the above points in mind will fare far better than those who play with no strategy whatsoever.

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