When most players think of casino machines, they immediately picture the bright lights of traditional slots.

However, Video Poker is a fundamentally different game that offers vastly superior odds to the player.

Some specific Video Poker machines, when played perfectly, actually return more than 100% to the player in the long run.

Because the game uses a standard 52-card deck, the probabilities of hitting specific hands are completely transparent.

In this article, we will explore why Video Poker is so lucrative and how you can maximize your chances.

How to Play Video Poker: The Rules

The gameplay is incredibly straightforward, utilizing the standard hand rankings of classic poker.

Your only decision in the game is selecting which of the five cards you want to keep for the final draw.

The machine then replaces your discarded cards with new ones drawn randomly from the remaining deck.

To win your bet back in standard games, you usually need at least a pair of Face Cards.

Playing optimally requires memorizing a strategy chart that tells you exactly which cards to hold in every scenario.

How to Spot a "Full Pay" Video Poker Machine

Not all machines are created equal; casinos subtly alter the payouts to increase their house edge.

The gold standard for Jacks or Better is the 9/6 paytable, which offers a 99.54% return with perfect play.

If the machine only pays 8 for a Full House and 5 for a Flush, the house edge increases significantly.

Therefore, your first task is always to hunt down the "Full Pay" versions of your chosen variant.

You must always play "Max Bet" because the payout for a Royal Flush jumps disproportionately on the 5th coin.

Popular Variants of Video Poker

Once you master the basics, you might want to explore the different flavors of Video Poker available.

Deuces Wild is a massive favorite where all four '2' cards act as wild cards, substituting for any other card.

These advantageous machines are rare in physical casinos today but can still sometimes be found online.

Double Bonus Poker offers massive rewards for hitting four Aces, but reduces the payout for two pair to compensate.

Always match your tactical approach to the specific rules and paytable of the machine you are sitting at.

Summary of Winning Tactics

• Look for the Full House and Flush payouts to determine the machine's value.


• If you cannot afford max bet, drop down to a lower denomination machine.


• Print a strategy chart and follow it perfectly without exception.


• Never discard a high pair to draw for a straight or a flush.


• Take your time. There is no dealer rushing you to make a decision.

Identifying Full Pay Machines

Video Poker is the hidden gem of the casino world, rewarding players who are willing to apply logic and study.

The combination of a 99.5%+ return and the possibility of hitting a massive Royal Flush is mathematically unbeatable.

Keep a strategy card open on your phone or printed out next to your keyboard when playing online.

Protect your bankroll by refusing to play anything less than the optimal Full Pay games.

Play smart, follow the chart, and enjoy the strategic depth of this incredible casino classic.