Video Poker is a game that combines elements of traditional poker with the simplicity of slot machines. In this game, the player is dealt five cards and has the opportunity to keep the ones he wants, while the others are replaced in a second draw. The objective is to form hands, most of which are similar to those in classic Texas Hold'em poker.
Winnings are determined by the value of the hand obtained, according to a specific payout table. Unlike traditional poker, the player plays alone against the machine rather than against other players or a dealer, making the game fast and direct. Strategies can vary, but generally focus on deciding which cards to hold and which cards to discard in order to maximise the chances of making a winning hand.
Evolution Gaming's Live Video Poker appeals to the solitary side of the game because the cards are dealt by a live dealer, not an algorithm. You can interact with the dealer via live chat as well as chatting with other players. The pace of the game is not affected as you can play up to 100 hands at a time in Multihand. For each hand, you have the same basic draw and choose to keep the same cards, and the replacement cards are drawn separately and can therefore vary from hand to hand.
This live casino version of Video Poker also gives you the opportunity to choose which variant of Video Poker you want to play. Here are the ones you can juggle between and their specifics:
- Jacks or Better: This variant is one of the most popular and simplest of video poker. A pair of jacks (or better) is enough to win the minimum gain. It is the basis of many other video poker variants. The strategies and payments are relatively simple, making it a good choice for beginners.
- Tens or Better: Very similar to Jacks or Better, this variant lowers the threshold of the minimum winning hand to a pair of tens. This means that players have more chances of winning with a weaker hand, but in return, the payments for stronger hands are often reduced.
- Deuces Wild: In this variant, all 2s (deuces) are wild cards, which means they can replace any other card to form a winning hand. This feature significantly increases the chances of forming a strong hand, but the payment tables are adjusted accordingly.
- Bonus Poker: This version offers bonus payments for certain four-of-a-kind hands (quads). For example, four aces can pay more than four 5s or four 6s. This adds an additional element of strategy, as players can aim for specific hands for higher gains.
- Double Double Bonus: This variant is an extension of Bonus Poker. It offers even higher payouts for specific four-of-a-kind hands, especially when they are accompanied by a specific card like an ace or a small number. This variant is prized for its high earning potential, but it also carries a greater risk due to the increased volatility of the game.
