Video Poker Player’s Guide
Video poker blends strategy, excitement, and fast-paced gameplay. Explore our full range of casino games and discover why Irish players can’t get enough of this card-meets-slot game.
What is Video Poker?
Video poker is a digital card game based on five-card draw poker, offering a mix of strategy and slot-style simplicity. As a video poker casino favourite, it differs from table poker because you play against a machine – not other players – and decisions are faster and more streamlined. Irish players love it because it’s easy to learn, offers strong RTP rates, and provides more control than the traditional online slots that are popular with many.
Video Poker vs. Other Games
How does video poker differ from poker and slots?
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Video Poker |
Poker |
Slots |
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Opponents |
No opponents in video poker. You play against the machine and aim for the best hand. |
In traditional table poker, you play against other players, competing for the pot. |
No opponents in slots. Outcomes are based on random results. |
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Strategy |
Video poker games require strategy. You choose which cards to hold or discard. |
Deep strategy is needed in poker: reading players, betting tactics, hand selection, positioning, bluffing, etc. |
Slots don’t offer strategic choices – you simply spin and wait for the result. |
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Odds / RTP |
Video poker games generally have a higher RTP than slots and many machines offer strong payout percentages. |
Skill influences your win rate in poker. There is no fixed RTP. |
Slots usually offer the lowest RTP of the three, with outcomes being completely random. |
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Speed of Play |
Fast gameplay is a given in video poker. There are no rounds of betting or waiting on opponents. |
Poker is slower due to multiple betting rounds and player decisions. |
Slots play is fast – just press spin to receive immediate results. |
Why Irish Players Enjoy Video Poker
- Familiar card-based gameplay
- Decisions matter (unlike luck-driven slots)
- Fast pace with strong payout potential
- Accessible on mobile and desktop
Why are Irish Players Choosing Video Poker?
Irish players are opting to play video poker games for multiple reasons – from a love of skill-based play to the growing mobile gaming trend. We’ve highlighted the top 8 reasons:
- Skill-Based Gameplay over Pure Luck: Unlike slot machines, your choices influence the outcome. Irish players enjoy the strategic element missing in other games.
- Higher RTP Rates: Top titles like video poker Jacks or Better often exceed 99% RTP, making them among the best online video poker choices.
- Mobile Gaming Growth: With Ireland’s strong mobile usage, players enjoy quick, on-the-go access to play video poker games anytime.
- Irish Culture Loves Card Games: From family favourites to pub classics, card games have deep cultural roots – making video poker instantly familiar.
- Multiple Variants to Explore: Players love switching between Bonus Poker, Joker Poker, Deuces Wild video poker game, and many more.
- Lower Volatility than Slots: Smoother bankroll management appeals to both new and experienced Irish casino players.
- Simple Learning Curve: Even beginners can grasp how to play poker video machines in minutes.
- Encourages Responsible Gambling: Predictable odds and slower loss rates make video poker a safer choice than high-volatility slot play.
Popular Video Poker Variants in Ireland
Here are the most popular versions Irish players enjoy today:
- Jacks or Better – The classic, focusing on simple gameplay and high RTP.
- Deuces Wild – All twos are wild, creating dynamic winning potential.
- Joker Poker – Features a Joker wild card for extra fun and flexibility.
- Bonus Poker – Offers boosted payouts for four-of-a-kind hands.
How to Play Video Poker
Video poker is a quick and simple game where you aim to form the strongest five-card poker hand. Understanding how it works is essential to improve your experience. Let’s break it down…
Basic Rules and Hand Rankings
Video poker uses standard five-card draw rules. You receive five cards, choose which to keep, and draw replacements.
Most Common Winning Hands
- Reliable Jacks or Better
- Classic Two Pair
- Solid Three of a Kind
- Smooth Straight
- Clean Flush
- Strong Full House
- Powerful Four of a Kind
- Rare Straight Flush
- Iconic Royal Flush
Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
Here’s how to play video poker:
- Choose your video poker machine or variant.
- Place your bet (max bet gives the best royal flush payout).
- Receive five cards.
- Select cards to hold (tap or click to keep them).
- Press Draw to replace the rest.
- Collect winnings based on the paytable.
Video Poker Strategy for Irish Players
Improve your video poker odds and long-term results with smart strategy.
Optimal Play Tips
- Always check the paytable before you begin.
- Hold high pairs and draw to improve lower ones.
- Keep four to a flush or straight over low pairs.
- Max bet for the best payouts on royal flush wins.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Holding low-value cards unnecessarily
- Ignoring variant-specific rules
- Playing without understanding paytables
- Chasing losses rather than playing strategically
Using Strategy Charts
How do you use strategy charts in video poker?
- Find the chart for your variant (e.g., Deuces Wild, Jacks or Better).
- Match your starting hand to the chart categories.
- Follow the recommended hold/draw decision for optimal results.
Strategy charts will give you the mathematically correct play for each video poker scenario.
FAQs & Factual Answers
- What video poker strategy guides are recommended?
Reputable gaming sites provide variant-specific charts for best video poker game strategies. Look for guides dedicated to each variant for accuracy.
- Is online video poker legal in Ireland?
Yes, you’ll find many a licensed video poker casino in Ireland that comply with the country’s gambling regulations, offering online video poker real money games.
- How do I deposit and withdraw funds in Ireland?
Irish video poker players can use Visa, Mastercard, e-wallets, and bank transfers. Withdrawals typically return to the same method you used to deposit, if it allows for this function.
- Which video poker games have the best odds?
Titles like Jacks or Better and Deuces Wild usually offer the highest RTP and best long-term player odds.
- Can beginners play video poker easily?
Absolutely. The learning curve is short, and basic strategy greatly improves success.
