The 5 Best Video Poker Strategies
Video poker is a game that really rewards smart play and a decent strategy, unlike some other casino games that are purely down to luck. The choices you make during a game directly influence the result and your chances of winning. Therefore, having a solid strategy is key if you want to consistently come out ahead. Video poker offers a variety of strategies that can seriously boost your winning odds, potentially lowering the house edge and improving your long-term results. Understanding the importance of strategy in video poker can actually turn it into a really rewarding pursuit. In this article, we're going to dive into the top 5 video poker strategies that will help you nail your chances of success.
Strategy 1: Always Play the Maximum Coins
When you're playing video poker, always make sure to bet the maximum number of coins. Most video poker machines have a special bonus payout for hitting a Royal Flush when you're max-betting. By going all-in on the bet, you give yourself a shot at the biggest possible win. This is especially crucial when you're playing on progressive video poker machines, where the jackpot just keeps climbing with every game played.
Betting the maximum not only ups your chances of snagging that Royal Flush but also improves the machine's overall payout percentage. By maximising your bets, you ensure you're getting the most bang for your buck with every hand. This strategy might need a bit more in your bankroll, but the potential wins really make it worth the punt.
Strategy 2: Get to Know Your Pay Tables
To really boost your winning potential at video poker, it's essential to get a handle on the pay tables. Every machine has its own unique pay table, which lays out how much you'll be paid for each specific hand. Take the time to study these tables carefully to find machines that offer better payouts and odds.
We recommend looking for machines with a 9/6 payout. This means you'll get paid 9 coins for a Full House and 6 coins for a Flush, giving you a sweet low house edge of just 0.46%. Steer clear of machines with 8/6 and 9/5 payouts, as they generally come with a higher house edge.
Pay tables can differ a fair bit from one machine to another, even within the same casino. Some machines might offer better payouts for certain hands, while others might pay out less. It's super important to get familiar with the pay table before you start playing and pick machines that offer the best possible returns.
Plus, pay tables can give you the lowdown on the house edge and the expected return for the machine. By comparing the pay tables across different machines, you can pinpoint the ones that give you the best shot at winning by offering the highest expected return.
Strategy 3: Using the Optimal Strategy Chart
If you're playing video poker, an optimal strategy chart is a great tool to help you make the best decisions. It tells you which cards to keep and which ones to discard in each possible situation. These charts are available for popular variations like Deuces Wild, Double Bonus Poker, and Jacks or Better. They use math and probability to help you make the best choice for each hand.
You can find video poker games at regulated mobile casinos, like those from Microgaming, Playtech, and NetEnt. Playing video poker online has a lower house edge than many other casino games. But it's important to know the rules of the game, such as which cards to keep and discard.
If you're interested in Microgaming's video poker games, here are some standard house advantages:
- Jacks or Better: 0.46%
- Aces & Eights: 0.91%
- Deuces & Joker: 0.93%
- All American: 0.62%
- Deuces Wild: 3.23%
Before you start playing, make sure you know the hand rankings. For example, in Jacks or Better, you need at least two jacks to win. Aces & Eights has a higher house advantage, but it offers bonuses if you make a hand with a face card and an ace.
Using an optimal strategy chart might take some practice, but it's worth it. It helps you make the best decisions possible, lowers the house edge, and improves your chances of winning.
Strategy 4: Managing Your Bankroll Effectively
In any form of gambling, effective bankroll management is essential. It's crucial to set a budget for your video poker sessions and stick to it. Never gamble with money you can't afford to lose, and never chase your losses.
A common mistake many video poker players make is betting too much of their bankroll on a single hand. This can quickly deplete your funds and leave you with nothing to play with. Instead, it's recommended to bet a small percentage of your bankroll on each hand to ensure that you have enough funds to withstand losing streaks.
Another aspect of bankroll management is knowing when to walk away. If you've been playing for a while and haven't had any significant wins, it's best to take a break and come back another time. It's important to recognize that video poker is a game of ups and downs, and you won't win every time. By managing your bankroll effectively, you can minimize your losses and maximize your chances of long-term success.
Strategy 5: Knowing When to Walk Away
Knowing when to walk away is a crucial strategy in video poker. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of the game and keep playing even when you're losing. However, chasing losses is a surefire way to deplete your bankroll and leave the casino empty-handed.
A good rule of thumb is to set win and loss limits before you start playing. Decide on the amount you're willing to lose and the amount you want to win. Once you reach either of these limits, it's time to walk away. This strategy ensures that you only end up losing what you can afford. It allows you to enjoy your winnings without giving them back to the casino.
It's also important to take breaks during your video poker sessions. Playing for extended periods can lead to fatigue and poor decision-making. Take regular breaks to clear your mind and come back refreshed. By maintaining a clear head, you can make better decisions and increase your chances of winning.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Video Poker
While we've covered the best video poker strategies, it's also important to be aware of common mistakes that many players make. Avoiding these mistakes will help you maintain a winning edge and maximize your profitability.
One common mistake is playing with too many hands. It's tempting to play every hand you are dealt, but this can quickly lead to losses. Instead, be selective and only play hands that have the potential to form strong winning combinations. Folding weaker hands will save you money in the long run and improve your overall profitability.
Another mistake is not practicing proper bankroll management. As mentioned earlier, it's crucial to set a budget and stick to it. Only bet what you can afford to lose, and avoid chasing losses by increasing your bets. By practicing effective bankroll management, you can ensure that you have enough funds to withstand losing streaks and maximize your chances of success.
Additionally, it's important to avoid playing video poker machines with low payout percentages. Some machines may have a significantly higher house edge than others, making it almost impossible to win in the long run. Always check the pay tables and choose machines that offer the best possible payouts and expected returns.
FAQ
Why is Playing the Maximum Number of Coins Important in Video Poker?
Playing the maximum number of coins in video poker is vital because it significantly boosts your chances of landing a Royal Flush and securing the highest possible payout. Many machines offer enhanced payouts for a Royal Flush when you bet the maximum. This is especially true for progressive video poker machines, where the jackpot grows with each game. While it may require a larger starting balance, the potential rewards make it a worthwhile strategy. Remember to gamble responsibly.
How Does Understanding Pay Tables Help Video Poker Players in New Zealand?
Understanding pay tables is crucial for video poker players in New Zealand, as it helps you identify the machines with the best odds and highest payouts. Each machine has a unique pay table that details the payouts for each hand. By studying these tables before you play, you can choose machines that offer the most favourable conditions. Pay tables also give you insights into the house edge and the machine’s expected return, helping you make more informed decisions and potentially increase your winnings.
What is a Video Poker Strategy Chart, and How Do I Use It?
A video poker strategy chart is a tool that advises you on which cards to hold and discard for every possible hand. These charts are based on mathematical probabilities and can significantly improve your chances of winning by ensuring you make the most advantageous decisions. Strategy charts vary depending on the specific video poker game you're playing, and they require some practice to use effectively. However, mastering them can substantially reduce the house edge and increase your potential for profit. Remember to always gamble responsibly.
Why is Bankroll Management Important When Playing Video Poker?
Effective bankroll management is essential in video poker to minimise the risk of significant losses. This involves setting a budget for each gaming session and sticking to it, ensuring you only gamble with funds you can afford to lose. Wagering too much of your bankroll on a single hand can quickly deplete your funds. Proper bankroll management helps you weather losing streaks and improves your chances of long-term success. Set limits and stick to them.
When Should a Video Poker Player in New Zealand Stop Playing?
Knowing when to stop is crucial in video poker. Before you start playing, set both win and loss limits, and once you reach either of these, it’s time to quit. This strategy helps you avoid chasing losses and ensures you don't spend more than you intended. Taking regular breaks is also important to prevent fatigue and maintain clear decision-making. Remember, responsible gambling is key.
What Mistakes Should I Avoid When Playing Video Poker?
Common mistakes in video poker include playing too many hands and poor bankroll management. It’s best to be selective with the hands you play, as playing every hand can quickly lead to losses. Always stick to your budget and avoid chasing losses. Also, avoid machines with low payout percentages, as they have a higher house edge, making it more difficult to win in the long run. Play smart and responsibly.
How is Video Poker Different from Pokies and Other Casino Games?
Video poker differs from most casino games, including pokies, because it requires skill and strategy, not just luck. Your decisions directly impact the outcome of the game, and a well-thought-out strategy can consistently improve your chances of winning. Unlike games that are purely based on chance, video poker allows players to influence their success through strategic choices and informed play.
Can Playing Video Poker be Profitable in New Zealand?
Yes, video poker can be a profitable venture if you play using the correct strategies. Understanding pay tables, using optimal strategy charts, and managing your bankroll effectively can reduce the house edge and improve your long-term profitability. However, it requires discipline, practice, and making informed decisions. Always remember to gamble responsibly and within your means.
Is Playing Progressive Video Poker Machines Worth It?
Playing progressive video poker machines can be worthwhile, especially if you play the maximum number of coins. These machines offer jackpots that increase with each play, giving you the chance for a substantial win. However, it's important to be aware of the odds and manage your bankroll carefully, as progressive machines often require larger bets. Gamble responsibly and set a budget before you start.
What Impact Does Strategy Have on Video Poker Outcomes?
Strategy is crucial in video poker, directly influencing your chances of winning. Using strategies like understanding pay tables, using strategy charts, and managing your bankroll can significantly reduce the house edge. Unlike games of pure chance, your actions and decisions in video poker can lead to more favourable outcomes, making it a game of skill and strategy.
