Quick Answer: Video poker is one of the best casino games for players because it combines skill and strategy with high payout potential. By choosing the right pay tables and using proper strategy, players can achieve returns of 99% or higher—much better than most slot machines.
What Is Video Poker?
Video poker is a casino game that blends elements of slot machines and traditional poker. You are dealt five cards and can choose which cards to hold or discard. The goal is to make the best possible poker hand based on the game’s pay table.
Unlike slots, video poker outcomes are not purely luck-based. Your decisions directly impact your results, which is why experienced players consistently outperform beginners.
Why Video Poker Offers Better Odds
Video poker is widely considered one of the best casino games because of its high return-to-player (RTP) percentages. When played correctly:
- Many games return 96% to 99%
- Some versions can exceed 100% with perfect strategy
- The house edge can be less than 1%
This is significantly better than most slot machines, which often have house edges between 5% and 10% (or higher).
Understanding Video Poker Pay Tables (Most Important Factor)
The pay table determines how much you win for each hand—and ultimately controls the game’s overall return.
| Game Version | Full House | Flush | Typical Return |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9/6 Jacks or Better | 9 | 6 | 99.54% |
| 8/5 Jacks or Better | 8 | 5 | 97.30% |
| 9/6 Double Double Bonus | 9 | 6 | 98.98% |
| 8/5 Bonus Poker | 8 | 5 | 99.17% |
Key Tip: Always look at the full house and flush payouts. These numbers tell you if you’re playing a “good” or “bad” machine.
A 9/6 jacks or better pay table. It pays 9 coins for a full house and 6 coins for a flush.
Why You Won’t Always Find the Best Pay Tables
While some video poker games offer extremely high returns, the reality is that the very best pay tables are often hard to find—or not available at all in many casinos. Casinos know that knowledgeable players seek out these machines, so they frequently limit how many are offered or place them in less visible areas.
For example, a full-pay game like 9/6 Jacks or Better (99.54% return) may only be available in certain casinos, in high-limit areas, or sometimes not at all. More commonly, players will encounter slightly reduced versions like 8/5 or 7/5, which carry a noticeably higher house edge.
This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t play—it just means you need to be selective.
- Always compare pay tables on machines before choosing one
- Look for the highest full house and flush payouts available
- Be willing to walk away from poor pay tables
- Understand that “good” is often relative to what’s available in that casino
The key is to consistently choose the best available option, even if it’s not the absolute best version of the game. Over time, these small differences can have a major impact on your results.
How to Play Video Poker (Step-by-Step)
- Insert money and choose your bet size (always bet max coins for the best payouts)
- Press “Deal” to receive five cards
- Select which cards to hold
- Press “Draw” to replace unwanted cards
- Get paid based on the final hand
Basic Video Poker Strategy Tips
- Always play max coins to qualify for the highest royal flush payout
- Follow a video poker strategy chart for your specific game
- Prioritize high pairs (Jacks or better) on non-wild card games
- Rarely chase unlikely hands like inside straights
- Learn differences between game types (Jacks or Better vs Bonus Poker vs Deuces Wild)
Best Video Poker Games to Play
Not all video poker games are created equal. Here are some of the best options:
- Jacks or Better – Best for beginners, simple strategy, high return
- Double Double Bonus – Higher variance, bigger payouts for certain hands
- Deuces Wild – Wild cards increase winning opportunities
- Bonus Poker Deluxe – Balanced gameplay with solid returns
Video Poker vs Slot Machines
| Feature | Video Poker | Slot Machines |
|---|---|---|
| Skill-Based | Yes | No |
| Typical RTP | 96%–99%+ | 85%–95% |
| Strategy Matters | Yes | No |
| Best for Long Play | Yes | No |
Common Video Poker Mistakes
- Playing poor pay tables (like 6/5 instead of 9/6)
- Not using a strategy chart
- Betting less than max coins
- Assuming all machines are the same
- Playing too fast without thinking through decisions
Where to Find the Best Video Poker Machines
The best video poker machines are typically found:
- In high-limit rooms
- At off-Strip or local casinos
- In casinos competing for knowledgeable players
Always compare machines before playing—small differences in pay tables can dramatically affect your long-term results.
Conclusion: Why Smart Players Choose Video Poker
Video poker stands out as one of the smartest choices in the casino. With the right strategy and careful game selection, you can dramatically reduce the house edge and extend your bankroll.
If you want the best odds in the casino, video poker should be at the top of your list.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is video poker better than slots?
Yes. Video poker typically offers much higher returns and allows skilled players to improve their results through strategy.
What is the best video poker game?
Jacks or Better is widely considered the best for beginners due to its high return and simple strategy. Always compare pay tables on machines before choosing one
Can you beat video poker?
In some cases, yes. With perfect strategy and favorable pay tables, certain machines can return over 100%.
Do casinos control video poker outcomes?
Video poker uses a random number generator (RNG), but the pay table determines the long-term return.
WANT TO LEARN TO BE A BETTER PLAYER?
How to Play Blackjack
How to Play Craps
How to Play Baccarat
How to Play Slots
How to Play Video Poker
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: https://www.americancasinoguidebook.com/video-poker/video-poker-strategy-guide-how-to-play-win-and-find-the-best-machines.html