So, you have decided to play Video Poker. Great! But then comes the dilemma: which version to choose? There is not one or even two of them, but a whole ocean of variations! For example, Atlantis video poker is one of those options that attracts players with its features. But there are others, and to understand them is sometimes more difficult than finding the TV remote control in the apartment.
Why is the choice so important? Yes, because different versions have their own rules, payouts and subtleties. One game can be generous, another – treacherous, the third – perfectly balanced. If you approach the choice as to buying shoes, the main thing is to “sit” comfortably, not just look beautiful. Therefore, let’s understand what points to consider, so that you do not regret your decision.
Varieties of Video Poker – not all cards are equally useful
There are several main variants in the world of Video Poker, and each with its own character. Here are the most popular ones:
- Jacks or Better – a classic of the genre. If you have a hard time memorizing combinations in poker, this variant is made for you. It’s simple: a pair of Jacks or Better is a win.
- Deuces Wild – here twos turn into jokers, and you can collect incredible combinations. The main thing – do not forget that the game reduces the payouts for regular hands.
- Bonus Poker – essentially the same Jacks or Better, but with additional bonuses for certain combinations. Sometimes luck is more important than strategy.
- Double Double Bonus Poker – If you want to take a risk for big payouts, this one is for you. But be prepared: for big wins you have to pay for lower chances of winning in general.
When choosing a game, it is important to realize that the difference is not only in the names. The payout tables and special rules determine your strategy and the final result.
Payouts and odds – look at more than just the pictures
It’s no secret that the same game can give different results if you change the payouts. Manufacturers like to adjust the numbers a little, and this changes everything from the profitability of bets to the probability of winning.
The best approach is to study the paytable before you start. For example, if in Jacks or Better the odds for a full house is 9 and for a flush is 6, it is a good version of the game. If less – you can look for something better.
By the way, the return to player (RTP) is not just a number, but an important indicator. The higher it is, the less money is lost on the distance. If a game has an RTP of 99.5%, then theoretically it will only eat 0.5% of your bets in the long run. Unless, of course, you decide to play something with an RTP of 94% – then you’ll need luck more than strategy.
Strategy – don’t rely on intuition alone
Yes, sometimes you want to hit “deal” and just trust fate. But Video Poker is not a slot game, here strategy decides a lot. Each variant has its own correct algorithm of actions.
For example, in Jacks or Better always keep pairs, even if there are cards for a possible flush. In Deuces Wild, on the contrary, with jokers you can take a risk and try to collect something cooler. In general, depending on the rules of the game, it changes which cards are better to keep and which ones to discard.
The good news: there are plenty of strategy tables on the internet. The bad news is that few people study them and then wonder why the balance melts. So, if you want to win and not just play, you should prepare a little.
Online or offline – where is it more convenient to play?
The choice between online gaming and classic casino is like choosing between watching a movie at home or in the theater. Both options have their pros and cons.
Offline casinos give the very atmosphere – noise, card tables, cocktails, excitement. But you have to pay for the comfort: the minimum bets are higher, and the machines are not always with favorable payouts.
Online versions are more convenient: you can play in your pajamas, without unnecessary glances and with the ability to choose the best payout tables. The only thing you will have to consider is that not everywhere you can find really honest versions of the game. Therefore, it is better to check which casino offers Video Poker and what conditions are set there.
Bankroll management – not to lose everything in an evening
Any cash game requires control. Even if the strategy is perfect, the payouts are high and luck is on your side, a lack of a bankroll management plan can derail everything.
The most sensible advice is to determine the amount you can spend and stay within it. And, of course, avoid the main mistake of beginners – to increase bets after a loss in the hope to win back. This works only in the movies, and in reality ends up with the fact that there is simply no money left.
Bottom line – what to pay attention to?
Choosing the best option for Video Poker is a balance of several factors. Important things to consider are:
- Thetype of game – classic or something with special rules?
- Payouts – is it worth the gamble or is it better to look for a version with better odds?
- Strategy – are you willing to learn or will you rely on luck?
- Online or offline – what is more convenient for you?
- Money control – do you have a plan or will it be impromptu?
If you answer these questions in advance, the chances of a successful game will increase significantly. Well, if you just want to have fun – then you can relax. The main thing is not to forget that Video Poker is about playing, not about trying to get rich in an evening.
