Video Poker 101

Video poker is similar to regular poker except that you are not playing against other poker players but instead just playing "one-on-one" against the video poker machine. Many players prefer this as they are not comfortable betting against other people, even at an online poker site, and they prefer to not deal with personalities, bluffing, and other types of play. Video poker players find their game to be more relaxing, less stressful, and often quite exciting when they have the shot at a progressive jackpot hand.

Most video poker games are based on a traditional five-card draw poker game. You can then discard all or some or even none of your cards after the initial hand is dealt for a final hand after the second dealing of cards. Your bet is in most cases always made BEFORE the initial first dealing of the cards. It is advised to always bet the maximum amount so that if you hit the progressive jackpot hand such as a Royal Flush that you will get the maximum payoff. You cannot usually add to your bets in most online casino video poker games as such machines are rare.

Many video poker games have special offers or hands beyond the Royal Flush that will pay a large jackpot. These could include hands such as four aces or deuces or other designated hands. Be sure and study the video poker payout structure at the game you are at to have clarification on this.

Online casinos offer the ultimate in video poker games and once you start you’ll never want to quit!