Video Poker Strategy

If anyone tries to tell you that video poker is a game of luck rather than strategy, you'll know differently once you've read the following information. While poker strategy is different for each online video poker game, there are ways in which you can increase your chances of winning.

For example, the following video poker strategy should be used for the game of Jacks or Better. Firstly, study the pay table and compare it with the cards you have been dealt. A high card for the purposes of this game is a Jack or higher.

To use the video poker strategy look up all viable ways to play an initial hand on the following list and elect that which is highest on the list. A "high card" means a jack or higher. An outside straight is a straight that you can place a fifth card at either end to complete, for example 6, 7, 8 and 9. An example of an inside straight missing one card is 6, 7, 9, 10.

Now let's assume you've placed your wager and your video poker game has awarded you the following cards. 3, 5, Jack and Queen of Spades and three of hearts. Based on the online video poker pay table you know that the second best hand you can make in this game is a four to a royal flush. Therefore you should retain the four spades and discard the three of hearts. By referring to the pay table after every play and keeping in mind the value of the poker hands, you can make the right decisions in video poker.