The Most Popular Variations of Video Poker Online

Video poker is a popular casino game that combines elements of both poker and slot machines. It offers players the chance to increase their chances of winning by analysing the cards after the initial draw. And it makes things even more exciting for UK players.

There are many different video poker variations, each with its own set of rules and payout structures. Next, we will present the best video poker games to play and what makes each of them so unique.

Main Video Poker Variations for UK Players

If you like playing poker, you certainly are familiar with Texas Hold’em or Omaha. But those are not video poker games. Video poker is not about comparing your cards to others — like the ones the dealer or other players have.

In video poker, you just try to get a valid combination — and that’s all. If you get one, you will be paid according to the payout table. Otherwise, you will miss the bet. These online video poker rules are pretty much the same as in a traditional video poker machine.

Still, both the combinations accepted and the payouts will vary according to the video poker variation you are playing. Let’s see next what the main options are and how to play video poker in each case.

Jacks or Better

Jacks or Better is one of the most popular video poker variations. The goal of the game is to get a hand that contains at least a pair of Jacks or better — say a pair of Queens, Kings, or Aces.

Jacks or Better video poker is a fantastic choice for UK players, boasting a high payout percentage and a low house edge. This means you've got a solid chance of winning when you play Jacks or Better video poker. It's no wonder it's a favourite for both new and seasoned players across the UK.

Deuces Wild

Deuces Wild is a video poker game where all the twos (known as Deuces) in the deck act as wild cards. This means they can substitute any other card to help you form a winning hand.

This variation offers a very good payout percentage. However, it can be trickier to play than other video poker variants. With so many wild cards, it can be a bit challenging for players to decide which cards to hold after the initial draw.

Joker Poker

Joker Poker is a video poker variation that uses a 53-card deck, with a Joker added to the standard 52. The Joker acts as a wild card, and players need at least a pair of Kings or Aces to win.

This game offers a decent payout percentage, blending elements from Jacks or Better and Deuces Wild. It's often easier to use the wild card here since it only appears once. Plus, with only pairs of Kings or Aces needed to win, you won't find it too difficult to figure out your strategy.

Tens or Better

Tens or Better is very similar to Jacks or Better. But players must have a hand containing at least a pair of Tens or better to win. As combinations are more frequent in this case, the payouts are slightly lower than in other versions.

Still, the game has a decent percentage and a relatively low house edge. In general, UK players will get a winning hand more easily than in other variations, including Jacks or Better and Deuces Wild video poker. It is adequate for anyone looking for something easy to understand.

Aces and Faces

Aces and Faces is a video poker game with a high payout for 4 of a kind combinations of Aces, Kings, Queens, and Jacks. Depending on the game you play, it can also have a decent payout for 4 of a kind combinations of lower cards.

The Aces game has a good percentage. But it can be more challenging to play than other video poker variations if you focus on the special combinations.

What are the best Video Poker games for UK players?

The best video poker games to play will depend on your preferences and playing style. Jacks or Better and Deuces Wild are popular choices for novice players due to the friendly gameplay they offer. Among them, Jacks or Better is the preferred one due to its high payout percentage and low house edge.

Joker Poker and Aces and Faces are better suited for experienced players who are looking for more challenging gameplay. They won’t have a Return to Player (RTP) as high as the one Jacks or Better offers. Still, it can be more fun to play.