Mechanical gambling machines have been in the world for more than 100 years, helping to set the stage for video poker to arrive in the 1970s. After rising to prominence in Las Vegas and Atlantic City casinos, the game was later converted for online play and can be highly rewarding for players who understand its intricacies.
Video Poker Variations
Having been present in the offline and online gambling industries for years, video poker has spawned multiple variations, but three are more prominent than most others. Get all the core details in the subsections below.
Triple Card Poker
This is a more compressed version in which players can profit from pairs or higher, but the catch is they only have three cards in each hand. Compared to other games, this variant has some of the best online video poker payouts for flush or higher.
Jacks or Better
Jacks or better is a more expansive variant that starts with players being dealt five cards instead of three. At this stage, players get to keep the cards like and exchange the ones they do not ant.
Hi-Lo Poker
In comparison to the other two variants, hi-lo poker is the most complex. Quite simply, this is because players receive seven cards during the course of the game and must create their best hand with only five of those cards.
Top Real Money Tips
Playing video poker online can go much more smoothly when you know the ins and outs of casino sites. Outside of the gameplay, there are things you can do to improve your overall experience.
Low Wagering Requirements
These requirements are what a casino will apply to bonus offers. Essentially, these are used to stop players from just taking funds and walking away. In the industry, the best wagering requirements are those that balance the interests of the casino and the player. Try to get the lowest possible, but always check to see that the deposit value is not included.
Alternative Payment Methods
Alternative methods like PayPal, Neteller, Skrill, or paysafecard can provide a simpler and quicker method of completing deposits, while also increasing safety. Moreover, it is often possible to claim bonuses for using alternative payment methods.
Regulated Casino Sites
In the British Isles, all casino sites are legally obliged to have a licence with the UK Gambling Commission. And this is a good thing for players because it ensures they are protected and able to play at fair sites held to high standards. UK players should never risk joining a casino that does not have this licence.
Simple Strategy
For the most part, video poker is simpler compared to games like blackjack and baccarat. Both of those have countless calculations to make, considering the multiple decks of cards. Thankfully, video poker is slightly more accessible when you integrate these helpful tips in your game:
- Video poker is more understandable compared to slot machines, so think about which cards you need to make a winning hand.
- You don’t have to go for glory on a straight or a flush when it’s easier to get a payout with two pairs or three of a kind.
- Stick to wagers you can afford, as a bad run of cards can deplete your funds. Try to play for the big wins by sticking around for the long run.
- Some machines skimp on payouts. Always stick with games that offer 9/1 for a full house and 6/1 for a flush – those are the telltale hands.
Playing for Free
One of the best things about casinos is that there are times when you can claim free offers and win real money. And the only way to do so is by finding no deposit offers, such as the £5 offer at mFortune. New players can snag the funds and win up to £10.
Video poker can be overlooked at times, but these games can be rewarding when you know the best ways to play online.
