Considered to be one of the most popular casino games online, video poker has been thrilling players around the globe ever since its inception. A hybrid of slots and poker, video poker combines the fast pace of slots with the hand rankings and game play of poker.
The first video poker terminals started appearing in land-based casinos in Las Vegas in the late 1970’s and although they were a far cry from the sophisticated online versions of the game we enjoy today, their premise was the same. IGT was responsible for creating these games and they were an almost instant hit with those who preferred the solitude they offered. A TV-type monitor was attached to a gaming machine, making it possible for players to enjoy poker-style entertainment with less pressure and at their own pace, in contrast to if they were seated at a gaming table.
By the mid 1990’s when online casino’s started opening their virtual doors, video poker was one of the first games to go live and over the years it’s amassed a massive fan base.
Video Poker Basics
Although there are huge number of video poker variants available online, the premise of the game technically remains the same, no matter what style of play you choose. Jacks or Better is the most popular option but Deuces Wild, Double Bonus Poker, Aces and Faces and Tens or Better are just a few of the many other games available.
To begin players must choose their betting limits and hit the Deal button. Thereafter 5 cards are dealt and the aim of the game is to build the best 5-card poker hand possible. Players must choose whether they want to hold or discard any or all of their cards and can have 1 additional draw thereafter to better their hand. Once the second hand is dealt the game ends and a payout is received if the hand qualifies.
The same hand rankings as used in traditional games of free spin pokies Australia are applied in video poker and players should be familiar with these before they place real money bets. Free video poker games available at online casinos allow players to learn how the game works before risking real money. Once you feel confident in your ability you can switch to real money play and try your hand at winning big.
Video Poker Payouts
Video poker is renown for being a very rewarding game and it has a low house edge when compared to many other similar casino games. It’s important to note that not all video poker games payout the same, so checking the paytable before you play is an excellent idea.
If you look at a game such as Jacks or Better, the minimum winning hand must have a pair of Jacks. For a pair players will receive a payout of 1 coin at whatever stake has been selected. If 5 coins are bet, 5 coins will be won. Two pair, three of a kind, a straight, flush and full house will all payout, whilst a royal flush is the most desirable hand as it can result in a payout of 4,000 coins.
Understanding poker hands is thus important, as you’ll need to know what these hands comprise of in order to enjoy the best chances of success.
Many video poker games also offer a gamble option where winnings can be wagered on a double or nothing game. This adds a little bit more excitement to the game and greatly increases your winning potential.