Video Poker Game Variations

Video poker remains one of the most popular poker games today since it was established in the 1970s. Since that time many different variations have been created and whilst they all generally follow the same rule set, there are countless minor nuances that ensure that the strategies to win and also the odds are different.

Before you start playing video poker, it’s recommended that you choose the type of game you enjoy, and then focus almost entirely on that ‘genre’. This lets you learn the intricacies and also the best strategies off by heart, becoming an expert in that field.

Making the Choice

With two main variations to choose from, the wild card format is a popular choice for many because it creates a ‘wild card’ out of a playing card and allows for players to substitute that card for anything.

Wild card allows you to get higher ranked cards easier, and whilst the payouts are less, the odds of winning a prize are that bit higher, because the paytable is more flexible and features more hands.

The other alternative is to go for traditional jacks or higher type games which usually have a completely different paytable which is more reminiscent of traditional poker with the usual Royal Flush / Straight Flush / 4 of a kind style winnings.

Each variation has its own strategy, and different players like different games. Wild card is often a popular choice for those that enjoy fast paced shorter games, whereas jacks or higher is popular for progressive jackpot competition players.

Many newer players like to start with Jacks or higher, because it’s based on the traditional five-card draw poker. However, don’t be mistaken that it’s the same, because your strategy needs to be different because it is a different game.