Video Poker: The Best Odds In The Casino

When most players think of casino machines, they immediately picture the bright lights of traditional slots.


Unlike slots, which are purely games of chance, Video Poker requires skill and mathematical strategy.


Some specific Video Poker machines, when played perfectly, actually return more than 100% to the player in the long run.


Because the game uses a standard 52-card deck, the probabilities of hitting specific hands are completely transparent.


In this article, we will explore why Video Poker is so lucrative and how you can maximize your chances.

The Mechanics: How Video Poker Works

The basic premise of all Video Poker games is based on traditional five-card draw poker.


After reviewing your initial hand, you must decide which cards to hold and which to discard.


The machine then replaces your discarded cards with new ones drawn randomly from the remaining deck.


The lowest winning hand in the most popular variant, Jacks or Better, is a pair of Jacks.


Playing optimally requires memorizing a strategy chart that tells you exactly which cards to hold in every scenario.

The Secret to Winning: Analyzing Paytables

Before you insert a single coin, you must look closely at the payout schedule displayed on the screen.


The gold standard for Jacks or Better is the 9/6 paytable, which offers a 99.54% return with perfect play.


Playing an 8/5 machine instead of a 9/6 machine will cost you hundreds of dollars over the long term.


Never settle for a short-pay machine; always seek out the best possible paytables available in the casino.


You must always play "Max Bet" because the payout for a Royal Flush jumps disproportionately on the 5th coin.

Popular Variants of Video Poker

Each variant alters the rules slightly and requires a completely different optimal strategy chart.


Deuces Wild is a massive favorite where all four '2' cards act as wild cards, substituting for any other card.


If you can find a good Deuces Wild paytable and play perfectly, you will theoretically make a profit over time.


These volatile games appeal to players who want larger jackpot hits without relying entirely on the rare Royal Flush.


Always match your tactical approach to the specific rules and paytable of the machine you are sitting at.

Video Poker Strategy Fundamentals

Never play a short-pay machine. Demand the highest possible return.
If you cannot afford max bet, drop down to a lower denomination machine.
Memorize the optimal hold decisions to eliminate the house edge.
Do not break up a winning hand to chase a bigger payout.
Analyze every hand carefully; a single mistake costs you money.

Identifying Full Pay Machines

Hand RankOptimal PayoutsReduced Payouts
Royal Flush250 (800 on Max Bet)250
Straight44
House Edge0.46%2.70%


Video Poker is the hidden gem of the casino world, rewarding players who are willing to apply logic and study.


The combination of a 99.5%+ return and the possibility of hitting a massive Royal Flush is mathematically unbeatable.


Do not be intimidated by the strategy; with a little practice, the correct holds become second nature.


Always remember to play max coins and stay away from the terrible 7/5 or 6/5 machines hidden in the lobby.


Play smart, follow the chart, and enjoy the strategic depth of this incredible casino classic.