The Most Popular Variations of Video Poker Online
Video poker is a cracking casino game that cleverly mixes the strategy of poker with the thrill of slot machines. It gives UK players the chance to boost their winning potential by analysing their hand after the initial deal, making every game that bit more exciting.
There are loads of different video poker variants out there, each with its own unique rules and payout structures. Next, we'll run through the best video poker games to have a go at and what makes each one a bit special.
Top Video Poker Variations to Play in the UK
If you enjoy a game of poker, you'll know all about Texas Hold'em or Omaha. But these aren't video poker games. Video poker isn't about going head-to-head with the dealer or other players. It's a solo effort.
In video poker, you're simply aiming to make a valid poker hand – that's it. If you hit one, you'll get paid according to the payout table. Miss out, and you'll lose your stake. These online video poker rules are pretty much the same as you'd find on a traditional video poker machine.
Still, the specific hands that count and the payouts can vary quite a bit depending on the video poker variation you're playing. Let's dive into the main options and how to play video poker for each.
Jacks or Better
Jacks or Better is one of the most popular video poker variants around. The main aim of the game is to land a hand that includes at least a pair of Jacks or something higher – think Queens, Kings, or Aces.
Jacks or Better video poker game has a high payout percentage and a relatively low house edge. In other words, you have a decent chance of doing well when playing video poker Jacks or Better. That’s the main reason for it becoming such a popular choice for both novice and experienced players.
Deuces Wild
Deuces Wild is a video poker game where all the twos (known as Deuces here) in the deck act as wild cards. It means that they can be used to substitute any other card in the deck to create a winning hand.
This variation has a very good payout percentage. On the other hand, it can be more challenging to play than other video poker variations. The high number of wild cards can make it a bit hard for players to understand what to hold after the initial draw.
Joker Poker
Joker Poker is a variation of video poker that uses a deck of 53 cards, instead of just 52. It happens because a Joker is added to the standard deck. The Joker acts as a wild card, and players must get a hand that contains at least a pair of Kings or Aces to win.
This game has a decent payout percentage, as it combines elements from Jacks or Better and Deuces Wild. It can be easier to use the wild card in this case, as it will only appear once. Also, as only two pairs are accepted, you won’t have such a hard time figuring out what to do.
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, 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 to play?
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.
FAQ
What are the main types of Video Poker games available?
The primary types of video poker games you'll find are Jacks or Better and Deuces Wild. Other popular variations include Joker Poker, Tens or Better, and Aces and Faces. Each version comes with its own distinct set of rules and payout structures, offering varied gameplay experiences.
What is the most popular video poker game?
Jacks or Better is widely considered the most popular video poker game. Its appeal stems from its straightforward rules, making it easy to grasp, alongside its generally high payout percentage and a relatively low house edge, which is attractive to many players.
What is the best Video Poker game to play?
There isn't a single 'best' video poker game, as it truly depends on your personal preferences and playing style. For new players, Jacks or Better and Deuces Wild are excellent starting points due to their accessibility. Once you've built confidence, you might want to explore Joker Poker and Aces and Faces for a more challenging and strategic experience.
