Neo Beth | July 19, 2023 | Updated on: January 16th, 2024
Video Poker Variants
Video poker is a popular casino game that combines elements of both poker and slot machines. While the basic gameplay remains consistent across different variants, there are numerous variations of video poker that offer unique twists and features. These variants provide players with diverse options to choose from, each with its own set of rules and strategies. In this article, we will explore some of the most common video poker variants, highlighting their distinctive characteristics and gameplay mechanics.
Best Online Casinos to Play Video Poker Variants
Single-Hand and Multi-Hand Video Poker
When players place bets on one hand at a time in video poker, it is referred to as single hand video poker. This traditional approach involves focusing on a single set of cards to make the best possible poker hand. If you’re new to video poker, our video poker rules guide covers the basics of single-play video poker.
Multi-hand video poker games attract certain players due to the potential for higher payouts and increased excitement. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, multi-hand video poker offers an exciting alternative. In multi-hand video poker, players can have three, five, or even more hands played simultaneously.
Benefits of Playing Single-Hand and Multi-Hand Video Poker
When it comes to video poker, both single hand and multi-hand variations offer unique advantages that appeal to different players. Here’s a brief introduction to the pros of each:
| Pros of Single Hand Video Poker | Pros of Multi-Hand Video Poker |
| Simplified gameplay | Increased excitement |
| Focused decision-making | Potential for higher payouts |
| Ideal for beginners | Variety of hand combinations |
| Easier bankroll management | Multi-tasking and engagement |
| Strategic skill development | Faster-paced gameplay |
| Enhanced control over gameplay | Potential for larger wins |
| Opportunity to test different strategies |
Both single hand and multi-hand video poker have their merits, and the choice ultimately depends on personal preferences and playing style. Whether you prefer the simplicity and focused decision-making of single hand play or the increased excitement and potential rewards of multi-hand action, video poker offers a diverse range of options to cater to every player’s needs.
Video Poker Game Variations
Whether you’re playing at a virtual online casino or a brick-and-mortar establishment, you’ll encounter a wide range of video poker games. While Jacks or Better serves as the foundation for most video poker variants, the notable distinction lies in the paytable, which varies from game to game.
Let’s delve into some of the most popular video poker game variations that you’re likely to come across:
Jacks or Better
Jacks or Better is one of the most well-known and widely played video poker variants. It follows the standard hand rankings of traditional poker, with the minimum qualifying hand being a pair of Jacks or higher. In this variant, the player is dealt a five-card hand and has the option to hold or discard any number of cards. The discarded cards are then replaced, and the resulting hand determines the payout. Jacks or Better typically offers favorable odds and serves as the foundation for many other video poker variations.
Deuces Wild
Deuces Wild is another popular variant of video poker that introduces a significant twist to the gameplay. In this variant, all the 2s (deuces) in the deck act as wild cards. This means that they can substitute for any other card, thereby increasing the chances of achieving a winning hand. However, due to the inclusion of wild cards, the minimum qualifying hand is often higher compared to standard poker. Consequently, the paytable is adjusted accordingly, offering enhanced payouts for certain hands. Deuces Wild requires a different strategy compared to Jacks or Better, as players must consider the potential benefits of holding or discarding 2s.
Joker Poker
Joker Poker is a thrilling video poker variant that incorporates the use of a Joker card as a wild card. Similar to Deuces Wild, the Joker can substitute for any other card in the deck to form winning combinations. This added wild card increases the chances of hitting stronger hands, but it also alters the paytable and hand rankings. In Joker Poker, the minimum qualifying hand is usually a pair of Kings or better due to the increased possibilities of forming winning combinations. Players must adapt their strategies to maximize the advantages offered by the Joker while aiming for the highest payouts.
Bonus Poker
Bonus Poker is a variant that introduces bonus payouts for specific four-of-a-kind hands. While the minimum qualifying hand remains the same as Jacks or Better (a pair of Jacks or higher), Bonus Poker offers increased payouts for certain four-of-a-kind combinations, such as four Aces. This variation encourages players to pursue higher-value hands and adjust their strategy accordingly. It is essential to note that the enhanced payouts for the bonus hands often come at the cost of slightly reduced payouts for other hands.
Double Bonus Poker
Double Bonus Poker is a variation of video poker that takes the bonus payouts of Bonus Poker to the next level. This variant offers even higher payouts for specific four-of-a-kind hands compared to Bonus Poker. However, to balance the increased rewards, the payouts for two pairs are typically reduced. Double Bonus Poker requires a strategic approach that focuses on maximizing the potential for landing four-of-a-kind hands while considering the reduced value of two pairs.
Conclusion
These are just a few examples of the many video poker variants available to players. Each variant brings its own unique twist to the classic poker gameplay, offering different strategies and payout structures. Whether you prefer the simplicity of Jacks or Better, the excitement of wild cards in Deuces Wild and Joker Poker, or the pursuit of bonus payouts in Bonus Poker and Double Bonus Poker, video poker has something to cater to every player’s preference. So, take your pick and try your luck at the video poker machines to experience the thrill of these captivating variants.