Dominate the video poker tables at Bitcasino
Enjoy an immersive and rewarding experience right at your fingertips with video poker games at Bitcasino. With its easy-to-understand rules and varied gameplay options, video poker provides a dynamic alternative to traditional table games and slot machines.
Video poker's appeal is undeniable. Apart from its fun gameplay, it also gives you a chance to win tremendous rewards. That's why it's a favourite in online casinos, drawing in players of all levels.
Join Bitcasino on a journey through the captivating realm of online video poker and discover the fundamentals of this digital classic game. Find the best online casino video poker game to take your gaming experience to the next level.
Buckle up for a journey where every click and decision could be the key to unlocking fortune.
Let's explore the strategies, tips, and details that will give you the confidence to manoeuvre through the digital tables.
What is video poker?
Video poker is a popular casino game that combines slot machines and traditional poker features. You play it on a computerised console similar to a slot machine, and your objective is to create the best possible poker hand from the cards dealt to you.
Understand what video poker is by checking the breakdown below:
Why is it similar to slot machines?
- A game played on a computerised console similar in size and appearance to a slot machine.
- It uses a random number generator to determine the cards dealt.
- You will play by yourself, not against other players or a dealer.
Similarities to Poker:
- It follows the rules of poker, where players aim to form the best five-card hand possible.
- It uses standard poker hand rankings (e.g., pairs, straights, flushes, etc.) to determine payouts based on a paytable displayed on the game.
- The game requires skill and decision-making, as players choose which cards to discard and keep after the initial deal.
In video poker, players don't compete against each other but aim to create a winning hand according to the paytable.
Let's explore the strategies, tips, and details that will give you the confidence to manoeuvre through the digital tables.
All you need to know: Video poker rules
Let’s dig deeper and better understand video poker.
You should know the rules and other crucial parts of the game.
Objective of the game
The primary objective in video poker is to create the best possible five-card hand from the cards dealt to you based on standard poker hand rankings (e.g., pairs, straights, flushes). You win by matching your hand to one of the winning combinations listed on the paytable and receive a payout based on your bet and the hand's value.
Video poker payout
The strength of your final hand determines your payout. Each winning hand is associated with a specific payout multiplier, determining the amount of credits or coins you win. The higher the rarity and strength of the hand, the greater the payout. However, your payout varies per game.
Winning hands and rankings
In video poker, winning hands are ranked based on traditional hand rankings. Here are the standard winning hands in video poker, along with explanations for each:
| Hand | Definition | Example |
| Royal Flush |
| Ace, King, Queen, Jack, and 10, all in the same suit. |
| Straight Flush |
| 8♦, 7♦, 6♦, 5♦, 4♦ |
| Four-of-a-Kind |
| 4♣, 4♠, 4♦, 4♥, 2♥ |
| Full House |
| 3♣, 3♠, 3♦, 2♥, 2♦ |
| Flush |
| K♣, Q♣, 9♣, 7♣, 5♣ |
| Straight |
| 10♥, 9♠, 8♦, 7♣, 6♣ |
| Three-of-a-kind |
| Q♣, Q♥, Q♦, 5♠, 2♦ |
| Two Pair |
| K♣, K♦, 10♠, 10♥, 5♦ |
| One Pair |
| J♣, J♥, 8♦, 3♠, 2♣ |
| High Card |
| 3♣, 7♦, 9♠, J♥, 2♥ |
Bet sizes and betting options
One crucial part of video poker that you should master is the betting options. This part is different from the regular and live poker variants, so familiarising yourself with it can help you enjoy the game.
You have several betting actions to take, such as:
Place a bet
You can start the game by placing your bet. You can choose the coin denomination and the number of coins you will wager per hand.
Deal
After placing your bets, press the ‘Deal’ button to initiate the dealing of cards. This action gives you your initial hand of cards.
Ante Bet
This is an optional forced bet placed by all players at the table before receiving any cards. However, not all video poker games use antes, and the amount can vary depending on the game and casino.
Side bets
You can also find side bets and optional wagers offered by some game variations. The specific types of side bets available depend on the video poker variation you're playing. Some common examples include:
- Bonus bet - This side bet pays out based on achieving specific hands like three-of-a-kind (trips) or a suited hand.
- Double Bonus Bet - This side bet is similar to a bonus bet. However, it has higher payouts at the cost of a higher wager.
- Trips Bonus Bet - This side bet pays out specifically for achieving three-of-a-kind (trips).
Dealing and drawing cards
In video poker, dealing and drawing cards is crucial to gameplay.
Here's how it typically works:
Initial deal
Each player receives a set number of cards at the beginning of the game, depending on the game variant. In most poker games, such as Texas Hold'em or Omaha, players receive face-down cards (hole cards) and face-up cards (community cards).
Community cards
In games like Texas Hold'em and Omaha, players share community cards dealt face-up in the centre of the table. These cards form part of each player's final hand, combined with their hole cards.
Betting rounds
After the initial deal, a series of betting rounds ensue, where players can bet, raise, call, or fold based on the strength of their hand and confidence in winning the pot.
Drawing cards
In some poker variants, such as 5-Card Draw or Draw Poker, players can discard and replace a certain number of cards in exchange for new ones from the deck. This process is known as drawing cards and typically occurs after the initial deal and before the showdown.
Showdown
After all betting rounds, the remaining players reveal their hands in a showdown to determine the winner. Based on the game's rules and hand rankings, the player with the best hand wins the pot.
Various video poker types you should know
The realm of video poker extends beyond the basic gameplay, offering a diverse landscape of game variations.
Here's a glimpse of some popular video poker types you might encounter:
Texas Hold’em
- Arguably the most well-known and widely played poker variation
- It features five community cards and two hole cards.
Omaha
- This poker type is similar to Texas Hold'em. However, you receive four-hole cards face down.
- You must use two or three of the five community cards to make your hand.
Russian poker
- In this poker type, you compete against the dealer rather than each other.
- You receive five cards face down and choose to fold or place an additional bet to challenge the dealer's hand.
Seven-card Stud
- In Seven Card Stud, players receive face-down and face-up cards over multiple betting rounds.
- Win the pot when you have the best five-card hand.
Jacks or Better
- This video poker type is one of the most popular.
- You need at least a pair of Jacks to receive a payout.
Online casino video poker: How to play
Playing video poker online follows the same core principles as playing it in a brick-and-mortar casino. However, it has some slight adaptations for the digital interface.
Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Locate and load the video poker game
Navigate to the casino's game section and search for ‘video poker.’ Then, click on the icon or name of the specific video poker variation you want to play.
2. Set your preferences
Once the game loads, choose the desired coin denomination (e.g., US$0.01, US$0.05, US$1) that determines the value of each coin you bet.
Some online video poker variations might offer optional side bets. These are entirely optional and come with separate rules and payouts.
3. Play the hand
Click the ‘Deal’ button to receive your five virtual cards displayed on the screen. Analyse your hand and identify potential winning combinations based on standard poker rankings.
4. Reveal the outcome
The game automatically compares your final hand to the paytable displayed on the screen. When your hand matches a winning combination, you receive a payout based on your bet amount and the hand's value. On the other hand, when your hand doesn't qualify as a winner, you lose the wager.
5. Payouts and Winnings
The payout for each winning hand varies depending on the game's rules and paytable. Stronger poker hands, such as royal and straight flushes, pay more, while weaker hands offer smaller rewards, like pairs and two pairs.
6. Play and bet again
You can repeat the process by placing another bet, receiving a new hand, cashing out your winnings, and ending the session.
Boost winning odds: Video poker strategy
Before playing video poker, you should apply strategies to see which works best.
Here are some essential strategies to help improve your video poker gameplay and maximise your chances of winning:
Understand the game variation
Each video poker variant has its rules and optimal strategy. Whether you're playing Jacks or Better, Texas Hold’em or another variant, you should familiarise yourself with the specific rules and mechanics to ensure you know what you’re doing.
Know the paytable
Familiarise yourself with the paytable for your specific video poker variant. Understanding the payouts for each winning hand helps you make informed decisions during gameplay.
Understand hand rankings
Know the rankings of winning hands in video poker and which offers the highest payouts. This knowledge helps you prioritise which cards to hold and which to discard during gameplay.
Use free play or practice modes
Take advantage of free play or practice modes offered by online casinos. This allows you to refine your skills, experiment with strategies, and gain confidence before playing with real money.
Practice bankroll management
Set a budget for your video poker sessions and stick to it. Avoid chasing losses or betting more than you can afford to lose. Proper bankroll management is essential for long-term success.
What are the benefits of playing poker at an online casino?
Playing poker in Japan is challenging since you can’t find legal brick-and-mortar casinos. However, you can still play this thrilling and entertaining game at an online casino like Bitcasino.
You’ll experience various benefits you can only find at Bitcasino. Here are some of them:
Offers various poker games
The online casino realm offers several video poker games catering to diverse preferences. From classic variations like Jacks or Better to games with wild cards or bonus features, you can find a game that suits your playing style and risk tolerance.
24/7 availability
Online casinos operate 24/7, allowing you to play video poker whenever you wish, unlike brick-and-mortar casinos, which have opening and closing hours.
Play from anywhere
You can play video poker from the comfort of your home or any location with a stable internet connection.
Demo mode
Some online casinos, like ours, offer a practice mode with virtual currency. This feature lets you learn the game and different variations before playing for real money.
Receive bonuses and promotions
Many online casinos offer attractive welcome bonuses or promotions for new players, including those specific to video poker games. These can provide additional funds or free play to enhance your gameplay experience.
Start your video poker journey at Bitcasino
Video poker at Bitcasino offers an accessible and entertaining gaming experience with the potential for lucrative payouts. With a wide variety of game options, flexible betting limits, and the convenience of playing anywhere, you will have the best gaming experience. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to video poker, Bitcasino is a dynamic platform where you can enjoy this classic casino game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
There are a lot of differences between video poker and poker. Some of them are:
- In video poker, you play against a machine, not against other players.
- In poker, players can raise, call, fold, or check throughout the hand, influencing the pot size and hand values.
- In video poker, the paytable displayed on the game determines your payout, not by forming the best hand compared to other players.
