What is it and how do you play it?
As the casino industry becomes more and more modernized, the games associated with it are naturally expected to follow suit. Video Poker was introduced to the casino scene in the 1970’s, and has been a popular staple ever since.
Video Poker is played the same way as regular poker, save that the dealer is now computer A. I., and the game has become a more “portable” experience. In other words, besides having rows of video poker machines on the casino floor, you are also likely to see a person at the bar ordering drinks and watching the current sports game on television while playing a few hands on the video poker machine in front of them…
Video poker is generally considered to be more of a game of skill, as the game offers a combination of large wins through a low house edge. Basically, the game is setup like draw poker (where you keep / discard cards) in terms of play, but the payouts are more in line with the “table” poker games (three card poker, let it ride, casino hold em, etc). In other words, a pair of Jacks or better pays (say) 2-1, two pair pays 3-1, three of a kind pays 5-1, etc etc.
While playing an electronic machine may seem to be just a random experience similar to a slot machine, the smart player can pick out the machines that provide a more generous payout (the casinos usually have a few machines that offer higher payout odds, so keep an eye out.)
In general terms, you can approach video poker in the same manner as five card draw poker – if you have a pair, you keep the pair and discard three cards. We say “in general terms”, because there is one aspect of video poker that you should remember – you should always have an eye out for an opportunity to go for the big hand (the royal flush). If you don’t have an “obvious” hand to play for, always play for the royal flush (most video poker games let you discard all of your cards instead of the standard three).
Video Poker is a fun and interesting variation of traditional Poker, and certainly worth the try if a player wants to experience some new styles of play. So the next time the night’s gaming experience finds the player wandering up to the bar, drop a few dollars in the video poker machine that is undoubtedly there and test out your skill.
With a little bit of luck, the next round of drinks will be on you.
