Popular video poker variations to try

Video poker comes in many exciting variations. Each game has unique rules, payouts, and strategies. Trying different versions keeps the game interesting and can increase your chances of winning. Here are some of the most popular video poker variations you should consider.

1. Jacks or Better

Jacks or Better is the most beginner-friendly video poker game. The goal is simple: get a pair of Jacks or higher to win.

• Why it’s popular: Easy to learn and widely available in both online and land-based casinos.

• Strategy tip: Always follow a basic strategy chart to maximize payouts, especially aiming for full-pay 9/6 machines.

2. Deuces Wild

In Deuces Wild, all twos act as wild cards, meaning they can replace any card to form a winning hand.

• Why it’s popular: Wild cards increase the chances of creating strong hands like four of a kind or straight flushes.

• Strategy tip: Focus on holding deuces and high-paying hands. This game has higher variance than Jacks or Better.

3. Bonus Poker

Bonus Poker is similar to Jacks or Better but rewards bigger payouts for four-of-a-kind hands.

• Why it’s popular: Offers higher rewards for rare hands like four Aces or four 2s, 3s, or 4s.

• Strategy tip: Adjust your strategy to aim for four-of-a-kind hands without sacrificing too many other winning opportunities.

4. Double Bonus Poker

Double Bonus Poker is an enhanced version of Bonus Poker. It provides even higher payouts for four-of-a-kind hands.

• Why it’s popular: Exciting for players chasing big jackpots.

• Strategy tip: Use a specialized strategy chart, as the optimal choices differ slightly from standard Bonus Poker.

5. Joker Poker

Joker Poker adds a single Joker card that acts as a wild card. The game is similar to Jacks or Better but with extra chances to create strong hands.

• Why it’s popular: The Joker makes it easier to complete flushes, straights, or royal flushes.

• Strategy tip: Keep the Joker in hand and focus on creating high-value hands while adjusting for payouts.

6. Double Double Bonus Poker

This variation further increases payouts for four-of-a-kind hands, especially Aces, 2s, 3s, and 4s.

• Why it’s popular: High-risk, high-reward game for experienced players seeking big wins.

• Strategy tip: Use advanced strategy charts. Proper bankroll management is essential due to its high variance.

Conclusion

Exploring different video poker variations makes the game more exciting and helps improve your skills. Beginners should start with Jacks or Better before moving to wild-card or bonus games. Each variation offers unique strategies and payout opportunities. By trying multiple versions, you can find the games that suit your style and maximize your enjoyment and winning chances.