Posted in Guides February 16, 2017
Strategies for Winning at Video Poker, Try Them for Free
Video poker is a stimulating game that can test your limits in every way. Playing it can be an enjoyable experience, and with some of the best odds offered in online casinos, it’s even sweeter. Winning at this game requires some tricks, and we’ll share a few that adapt particularly well to video poker.
Video poker emerged in the 1970s and quickly garnered a dedicated following. Nowadays, it’s one of the most played games in online casinos. The game’s appeal lies in intellectual challenges, as winning often demands skill. It also boasts low house odds, giving players a higher chance to win big. Online gambling portals offer tables with different incentives, such as cashback or free plays, making video poker the only game where the house doesn’t hold a clear advantage.
Tips for Winning at Video Poker
Some strategies work equally well for every type of video poker, while others are more specific. Here are a few of our top tips:
- Always play with the maximum number of coins
You can play video poker with one to five coins, but it’s best to go all out and play with five. That way, you can receive extra bonuses and incentives in almost every game. If your bankroll can’t accommodate betting with five coins, then switch to a lower coinage. - Avoid waiting on a royal flush
A ‘royal flush’ is the best combination of cards you can get in video poker, but the odds of this happening are only 1 in 40,000. It’s best to avoid daydreaming of this spectacular win as it’s a waste of time. Instead, focus on gradually building up your payouts by winning small. - Avoid double-ups unless you’re ready to take the risk
The double-up feature is what makes your odds better than that of the house, so you can score a big win. However, it’s risky, and only suitable for players who seek high volatility. If you prefer low-risk endeavors, then pass on the double-up feature and enjoy the game.
Winning Strategy for Deuces Wild
Multiple strategies cater to various types of video poker games that you’ll learn with experience. However, when starting your video poker adventure, try this Deuces Wild strategy. Understanding these terms will help:
- Inside straight – a straight that’s lacking one inside card, i.e., 6, 7, 9, 10.
- Outside straight – an open-ended straight that you may complete on either side, such as 7, 8, 9, 10.
Here’s how to use the strategy:
- Ensure you play on a full pay as this offers maximum returns. This is one of the few situations where you can get over 100% return.
- Select the highest play on the list mentioned below.
Highest plays to lowest plays:
- 4 deuces
- Pat royal flush
- 3 deuces (only)
- Pat four of a kind
- 4 to a royal flush
- 4 to a straight flush
- 2 deuces (only)
- Any pat 4 of a kind
- 4 to a royal flush
- Full house
- 3 of a kind or straight or flush
- Other 4 to a straight flush
- 3 to a royal flush
- 3 to a straight flush
- Deuce only
- 4, 5 to a royal flush
- 3 of a kind to a straight flush
- 4 to a straight flush
- 3 to a royal flush
- Pair
- 4 to a flush
- 4 to an outside straight
- 3 to a straight flush
- 4 to an inside straight
- 2 to a royal flush
Avoid playing any hands not included in the list mentioned above. It’s that simple! Try it for free on Deuces Wild 1 Hand or Deuces Wild.
Winning Strategy for Jacks or Better
The highest possible good play is the ideal strategy:
- 4 of a kind or royal flush or straight flush
- 4 to a royal flush
- 3 of a kind or full house or straight or flush
- 4 to a straight flush
- Two pair
- High pair
- 3 to a royal flush
- 4 to a flush
- Low pair
- 4 to an outside straight
- 3 to a straight flush
- Unsuited A, K, Q, J
- 2 suited high cards
- 4 to an inside straight (3 high cards)
- 3 to a straight flush
- Unsuited K, Q, J
- Unsuited Q, J
- Suited J, T
- Unsuited KQ, KJ
- Suited Q, T
- Unsuited AK, AQ, AJ
- Suited K,T
- 1 high card
- 3 to a straight flush
Read our special guide on how to win at Playtech’s Jacks or Better and try the free games of Jacks or Better, Jacks or Better Multihand, or Jacks or Better 1 Hand without depositing any money.
Enjoying Video Poker at the Best Online Casinos
Almost every casino, except for those that offer slots only, provides a selection of video poker games. These games come in different designs, with enticing bonuses to make the game more enjoyable, and increase the chances of winning.
