The video poker strategies: tips, tricks, strategy cards and more

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The chances of winning in this game are usually very high. But with the right video poker strategy you can get even more out of it. In my report you will find strategies for maximum success. There is also further help for beginners and an overview of the most famous video poker myths.

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  • Video poker strategy
  • Video Poker Tricks
  • Strategy cards
  • Strategy myths
  • The start of the game
  • FAQ

I have prepared step-by-step instructions for you to get started. In addition to the most well-known video poker strategies, you will find help such as strategy cards to download. My virtual video poker trainer offers you practical tips and access to free demo versions. This way you can optimally prepare for real money games.

Video Poker Tips: Strategies simply explained

Video poker has been around since the 1970s. The first machines were based on CRT screens and had relatively little computing power. Nevertheless, video poker machines gained great popularity in the 80s. They offered a comfortable alternative to table games. The first video poker machines as well as the current online versions have one thing in common: Texas Hold'em as a basis and a simple game principle.

This is how it works

Despite the simple game mechanics, there are different video poker variants. Each offers its own payout percentages, betting limits, a different house edge and paytables. But all variants have one thing in common: they are based on a set of mathematical rules. You can take advantage of these with the right strategy. It doesn't matter if you don't have a sense for numbers. Simply use practical tools such as strategy cards.

However, you should be aware: There is no guarantee of winning. A video poker strategy only helps you maximize your chances of winning and reduce the house edge. What you need is my video poker trainer and my instructions. Once you're familiar with it, you'll be in the game Video poker online casinos positioned more successfully.

Basic strategy and video poker tricks – step by step

Almost every player thinks of ways to improve their game and increase their winnings. You are dealing with a game of chance - there are no guaranteed winnings. Nevertheless, you can get more out of the games with simple tips and video poker tricks. To do this, you should follow the following steps:

Play with the highest stakes

Although it sounds simple, many players don't think about it. If you play with the maximum stake, you can expect the highest possible winnings.

Check out the winning table

You should always check the paytable before playing. This allows you to assess whether it is worth using real money with this variant.

Use the right strategy

There is no strategy that can be applied to every single video poker variant. Therefore, choose the approach that suits your variant.

Collect or double your winnings

If you have a winning hand, the amount you won lights up on the winning table. With some game variants you can end up doubling your winnings in a risky game.

Some of the points mentioned may seem self-evident to you. Nevertheless, it is essential to apply these four steps. These steps will improve your gaming experience. I recommend you understand this before using strategy tables.

The best video poker tricks, guides and tables

In this section we get into practice with a selection of different video poker tricks. I have prepared a clear video poker trainer, strategy tables and much more for you. But first of all, I'll show you how to read a strategy table.

This is how you use strategy tables

Using a strategy table is much easier than some people think. A table like this shows you all the card combinations that appear in the game. These are ordered from worst to best hand. Misunderstandings are almost impossible. That's why this is one of the first video poker tricks I'll tell you.

During the game, all you have to do is look at the list and find your hand. Once you have identified your card combination, you are ready to play it. The list is based on mathematical calculations - deviations are therefore not possible. Below you can see an example of such a strategy table - for the video poker title 9-6 Jacks or Better.

Video poker strategy cards in practice

To give you an overview, I have prepared some practical examples for you. Based on the rules of Jacks or Better, I'll show you which cards you should keep in the game if you want to increase your chances.

If you really want to benefit from my video poker tips, you should also use them Video poker rules be familiar. You should know the winning combinations. If you feel like you need to catch up, I recommend my special page on the topic.

Jacks or Better – Simple strategy

If you use this simple Jacks or Better strategy, you can secure a payout rate of up to 99.4%. To do this, you must always play your first hand in the best possible way. For the hand in the example below, I would advise you to use the strategy of just keeping the four and speculating on a straight flush. Other options would be to hold two cards of the same color. But then the best possible outcome would be less worthwhile than the straight flush with odds of 1:50. When determining your options, rely on the paytable.

Jacks or Better – Medium strategy

Have you tried the simple strategy and would like a little more challenge? Then you should try the middle strategy. If used correctly, you can achieve payout rates of up to 99.52% - slightly higher than with the simple strategy. You don't just rely on the strategy table alone. You also need to keep an eye on the overall strength of your hand. In the example shown, you can keep three cards and speculate on a straight flush - or keep 2 cards to get a royal flush.

Jacks or Better – Optimal strategy

The third tactic presented here is called the optimal strategy. If you use this correctly, the payout rate increases to 99.54%. This is less complicated than the middle one. After all, it is enough just to pay attention to the strategy table here. With this strategy there are some hands that will never be played. In the example below, the only possible move would be to keep the ace and swap the rest.

Overview of all video poker strategy tables

By now you should have an increasingly better understanding of video poker hands. However, it is by no means recommended to learn everything by heart. Finally, winning combinations can vary from game to game. I therefore recommend that you save the strategy tables. So you are prepared for later use.

In this section we have prepared video poker strategies for you to download. The three strategy types presented for the basic video poker variant Jacks or Better await you. We try to continually add additional strategies. Please check back at a later date.

9-6 Jacks or Better Download PDF 9-5 Jacks or Better Download PDF 8-6 Jacks or Better Download PDF

Video Poker Myths

Players are said to have a lot of superstitions. In fact, we all have our favorite rituals. But these can obscure what is important. This is particularly true for strategies. Therefore, you should not believe any gambling myths that relate to the power of a strategy. In video poker there is similar to Online slot machines many superstitions. Here you can find out the most famous ones:

Video Poker Strategy Myths

  • 1/4 Player's Fallacy One of the most common misconceptions: The player's fallacy is the age-old idea that the results of past games affect the next one. E.g. “Red has won three times in a row. Black will come next time.”
  • 2/4 Counting Cards Although counting cards is legal and fair and reduces the house edge, it is by no means a guarantee of winning. Many players make the mistake of thinking that counting cards will get them rich.
  • 3/4 It's all about luck. Many players believe in luck in some way. Although in the end it is chance that decides, many game outcomes can actually be derived mathematically.
  • 4/4 The curse of the payout Especially among die-hard online poker players, you have probably heard about the curse of the payout. Some players believe they will be penalized by an operator after cashing out winnings once. However, the belief in rigged games is wrong.

Furthermore, you should always remember: Strategies help you win - but they do not guarantee anything. There is no perfect strategy. However, if you play wisely, my video poker tricks and strategies can help you minimize the house edge and increase your chances.

Video Poker Practice: Practice makes perfect

If you have made it to this section, you are familiar with the practical basics of one or more video poker strategies. Are you ready to put your knowledge to the test? Then you will find some of the most popular video poker games as a free demo version in the following test reports.

Author: Alex Morgan