How To Win At Video Poker
It's hard to believe that video poker has been around since the early 1970s, for the game and its many variations are still fresh and enticing to poker lovers everywhere. In fact, video poker is a huge hit online - probably the most popular online casino game. Unlike a slot machine, where your odds of winning depend on sheer luck, video poker enthusiasts know that in this game, they can practice strategies and skill in order to win.
No Secrets to Winning
These strategies and skills aren't a secret. They are available to anyone who takes the time to perfect their poker knowledge. One of the best strategies is to choose the online video poker games that have the best payouts. This information is available in the paytable of each game. Keep an eye on the paytable when you are about to hold or play a card to see if perhaps you have cards that would give you a bigger win. Those who are new to poker in general can get a good feel for the game by playing video poker that allows players to play for free as well as for real money.
Emulate the High Rollers
High rollers like to choose video poker games that have high payouts, as they believe that the odds are better. They also look for games that have been nicknamed "9/6" because a Full House pays 9 coins, and a straight pays 6 coins. Many of these people became well-versed in poker by using what is known as a strategy card. A strategy card lists every card combination possible. Once you have located the hand you were dealt on the card, you are given instructions as to which cards to discard and which cards to keep.
Keep On Playing
It is also a known fact that the longer you play video poker, the better your chances are at hitting that coveted Royal Flush. With the standard 52 card deck, the odds of a Royal Flush are 1 out of every 40,000 hands. This has been estimated to equal about 100 hours of game play. As long as you have the free time and the cash needed to play for long periods, your chances increase.
Wagers Make a Difference
The amount you win in video poker depends on the amount you have wagered. The aim of the game is to capture the often elusive Royal Flush, which can only be won if you bet all five coins. The Royal Flush also pays an additional bonus. If five coins per hand doesn't suit your gambling budget, a bet of three coins would give you a win that is three times the amount of a one coin win.
Play and Play Again
As with any game, practice makes perfect. Practice your poker technique and strategy for free at online casinos before venturing out to play for money. By perfecting your poker strategy, your chances of winning at video poker are very good. The payouts from video poker are quite satisfactory, and can turn video poker into a thoroughly enjoyable pastime you will want to repeat as often as possible.