Best video poker games of 2023

If you enjoy playing , you’ll be pleased to learn that there are numerous variations of the game available both online and in land-based casinos. Each one presents a slightly different challenge, keeping your attention and testing your skills. 

Video poker combines two of the most popular casino games – slots and poker – into one entertaining game that can be played by anyone. In fact, video poker gives you a better chance of winning than slot machines, making it a great alternative if you’re looking to stretch out your bankroll. If you know the right strategy, you could leave the casino with a nice profit.

In this guide, we review the best video poker games available online and provide some helpful tips for improving your odds.

Top 10 Video Poker Games

There are many different types of video poker, but not all of them are created equal. The top video poker games offer higher payouts, more action, and better odds of winning. They also tend to feature sharper graphics and smoother gameplay. Our experts have reviewed dozens of video poker variants to come up with a list of the top 10. You can use this list to find the right game to suit your needs.

1. Jacks or Better

Jacks or Better is considered by many to be the standard version of video poker. It gets its name from the fact that a pair of jacks is the minimum qualifying hand to win any money. Most video poker machines follow this format, so it is an excellent game to learn. Numerous other games draw inspiration from this timeless classic.

The object of Jacks or Better is to get a pair of jacks or better to win. The highest paying hand is a royal flush, which can yield a huge return on your bet. This game features a 9/6 pay table, which means you receive 9 coins for a full house and 6 coins for a flush. Many machines only pay 6 coins for a flush and 7 for a full house, which reduces your odds of turning a profit.

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RTP: 99.54%

2. Deuces Wild

Deuces Wild is another classic video poker variant that has stood the test of time. In this game, all deuces (2s) are wild cards, which means they can be used to substitute for any other card to form a winning hand. As you might expect, four deuces form an instant royal flush, the biggest prize in the game.

Since deuces are wild, the payout table for this game is somewhat different from other versions of video poker. For example, a straight only pays off 1 to 1, while three of a kind will get you a payout of 3 to 1. Because of the increased number of winning combinations, many casinos give new players a break and play 3 to 1 on bulls (three of a kind).

RTP: 100.76%

3. Double Bonus Poker

Double Bonus Poker is a unique take on the traditional Jacks or Better format. The big difference between these two games is the payout table for four of a kind. In Double Bonuss, you can earn some serious coin for putting together this challenging hand. Four aces will garner a 160 to 1 payout, while bonus hands like four aces with a 2, 2, 3 bonus and four 4s through Kings with a kicker ace bonus can net you 4000 to 1 and 2000 to 1 respectively.

Aside from that, regular strategy applies. A pair of jacks or better pays, while a royal flush at max bet means the machine pays out its progressive jackpot, often thousands of dollars or even more. Bonus hands combined with four of a kind make this a very appealing choice among high rollers and those who love the thrill of going for the big score. Just remember to adjust your strategy to account for changes in how four of a kind payouts affect your play.

RTP: 98.98%

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4. Loose Deuces

As the name implies, Loose Deuces gives players a bigger advantage when it comes to wild cards. Whereas most Deuces Wild games have a 100.76% RTP, Loose Deuces bumps that up to 100.97%. Why? Mainly because of the way aces work in this game. In most Deuces Wild titles, a wild card deuce cannot be used to form a straight royal flush, as that would be too easy. The same goes for aces. But in Loose Deuces, an ace can be used to complete a straight royal, which puts this version just ahead of others in terms of the ratio of favorable payouts to wagers.

5. Aces and Eights

Aces and Eights got its name from the highest-value hand in the game. Like Jacks or Better, this is a straightforward video poker title that follows conventional rankings for winning hands. One notable exception: in Aces and Eights, a wild card ace can be used to replace any card and form a straight royal flush, giving you a bigger return on your wager. Another perk is that the game pays out even money (1 to 1) on all suited hands, further increasing your chances to win small and build your bankroll before aiming for the top prize.

RTP: 99.79%

6. Joker’s Wild

Joker's Wild is yet another twist on the deuces theme, substituting a joker wild card in place of all the twos. Like the song says, “every little thing he does, he does it well.” OK, maybe we’re reaching a bit here, but it’s catchy. In any case, the presence of the joker throws one extra curveball into the mix, as it can never be used to complete a royal flush. Still, with 53 cards in play (the 52 in a standard deck plus one joker), there are plenty of opportunities to hit it big.

One fun aspect of Joker’s Wild is that older players may feel a sense of nostalgia while listening to music that wasn’t completely awful. Then again, younger gamblers discovering the joys of video poker may gain a newfound appreciation for at least one Steve Perry-fronted rock ballad. Who knows? Maybe the next big Supertramp tribute band will hit it big and retire that old cheesefest to the scrap heap where it belongs. Until then, however, Joker’s Wild paysaurantly, so crank it up if you like. We won’t judge.

RTP: 100.63%

7. Bonus Deuces Wild

Bonus Deuces Wild is almost identical to regular Deuces Wild, with one major exception. In this version, certain four-of-a-kind bonuses boost the payout for that hand, making what would otherwise be a moderately valuable four-of-a-kind into a much bigger prize. For example, four aces with a 2, 2, 3 bonus at most casinos pay out 2000 to 1, while four 4s through Kings with a kicker ace bonus delivers a massive 4000 to 1.

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Given the potential for huge wins based on four-of-a-kind combinations, adjusting your play to maximize these hands is critical. For beginners learning how to play video poker, Bonus Deuces Wild offers plenty of entertainment value along with the opportunity to hit it big.

RTP: 100.17%

8. Double Double Bonus Poker

Think of Double Double Bonus Poker as Double Bonus Poker on steroids (or perhaps double strength bonus). That means the four-of-a-kind multipliers are even bigger than in the regular Double Bonus variation, delivering bigger wins and even more excitement. For instance, putting together a four aces with a 2, 2, 3 bonus now pays 4000 to 1, while four 4s through Kings with a kicker ace bonus nets you a staggering 8000 to 1.

You can see why experienced players consider this one of the best video poker games around. Just be sure to bone up on your four-of-a-kind strategy to get the most out of each session.

RTP: 99.92%

9. All American

All American differs from Jacks or Better in one key respect: it pays out more for a straight flush than a regular straight flush. The payout for a straight flush at max bet in All American is usually equivalent to a progressive jackpot, sometimes running into the thousands. Regular straight flushes still hit, just not quite as hard.

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Many gamblers consider All American to be the second-best video poker variant behind Jacks or Better due to that progressive straight flush jackpot. The main downside is that the payout for lower hands is generally less favorable compared to Jacks or Better machines.

RTP: 99.54%

10. Pick’em Poker

Pick’em Poker is a unique variation on video poker that adds an extra element of skill and luck. At the start of each round, you are dealt five cards, but you must first pick which of two face-down cards you want to hold onto before deciding on any other discards.

This may not seem like a big deal, but it alters optimal strategy in noticeable ways. For example, you might choose to hold onto a low pair in the hope of hitting a third card to form three of a kind. Or, you could opt for one of the high cards that could help you put together a flush or straight.

Adding such decisions makes Pick’em Poker more engaging than standard video poker variants. However, it can be difficult to memorize the various scenarios that require a different approach than with other forms of video poker. We recommend reading up on a good strategy guide before diving into Pick’em Poker if you want to turn a consistent profit.

RTP: 99.54%

How to Play Online Video Poker

Regardless of which variant you choose, all video poker games share similar controls and gameplay mechanics. We have provided a step-by-step guide below on how to play video poker and increase your chances of winning.

1. Choose Your Bet Size – Most video poker games allow you to wager between $0.05 and $25.00 per hand. Choose your bet size by using the + and – buttons at the bottom of the screen.
2. Select a Hand Rank – Next, you must decide which hand ranking you wish to achieve in order to win the highest payout. Possible options include Royal Flush, Straight Flush, Four of a Kind, Full House, Flush, Straight, Three of a Kind, Two Pair, Pair of Jacks or Better, and Anything of a Kind.
3. Hit the ‘Deal’ Button – Once you have set your preferences, click on the ‘Deal’ button to receive your cards.
4. Hold (or Not) Cards – Review your cards carefully. If you wish to keep one or more of the cards dealt, click on it to hold. Cards you do not hold will automatically unlock after you hold any cards.
5. Spin to Win – After holding your cards, click on the ‘Spin’ button to see if you completed your desired hand ranking. If so, you win the corresponding prize. If not, you lose your bet but can play again at anytime.

Video Poker Strategy

If you want to improve your chances of winning when playing online video poker for real money, then we suggest utilizing a solid strategy. While no guaranteed way of winning exists, using an effective strategy can certainly tilt the odds in your favor.

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When developing a video poker strategy, always remember to maximize your expected return percentage (RTP). By doing so, you can enhance your overall performance and potentially win more money over the long term. Here are a few tips to get you started:

• Know When to Hold ’Em – Perhaps the most important aspect of video poker strategy involves knowing which cards to hold. Generally speaking, you should keep any card that makes up part of a possible winning hand, whether it be a pair or something closer to a royal flush. However, there are exceptions to this rule, especially if you have cards that could lead to a higher-ranking hand with a little luck.

• Understand Which Games to Play – Not all video poker games are created equal. Some variants offer higher payouts and better odds of winning than others. As a general rule, look for machines that use the Jacks or Better pay table and avoid versions that substitute aces for higher-ranking hands (e.g., Aces and Faces).

• Manage Your Bankroll Carefully – Set a budget before you start playing and stick to it. Never gamble more than you can afford to lose, and always quit while you’re ahead. It can be tempting to try and turn a small win into a big one, but this is often a recipe for disaster.

• Practice Makes Perfect – Before risking real money, it’s a good idea to practice playing video poker online for free. This will allow you to get a feel for the game and develop your strategy without losing any cash.

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• Look Up Poker Hand Charts – An essential tool for any aspiring video poker champion, using hand charts helps you determine the optimal play in any situation. These charts take into account the specific pay table and your current hand to give you the best possible chance of winning. While memorizing the information can be tricky at first, it’s worth the effort if you’re serious about taking your game to the next level.

By implementing these strategies, you can significantly improve your chances of success when playing video poker games online. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, taking the time to understand these concepts can mean the difference between winning big and walking away empty-handed.

Online Video Poker Bonus

Almost every reputable online casino offers welcome bonuses and promotions to attract new players. These bonuses often come in the form of deposit matches, meaning the casino will give you extra funds based on how much you initially deposit. For example, a 100% match bonus up to $500 means that if you deposit $500, the casino will give you another $500 to play with.

When playing video poker, these bonuses can be incredibly valuable, as the game offers better odds than slots and can be a great way to grind out some free wins. However, it’s important to read the fine print before claiming a bonus, as different promotions come with varying wagering requirements and restrictions on which games contribute towards clearing the bonus.

To illustrate, let’s say you sign up at a casino with a welcome bonus of $1000 that must be cleared by betting 30 times within 30 days. This means you need to place bets totaling $30,000 before you can withdraw any bonus funds (or the resulting winnings).

While this may seem daunting, playing video poker can significantly ease the workload. Most online video poker games are assigned a “weight” or “contribution percentage” when it comes to bonus wagering. This weight represents how much of your bet contributes toward clearing the bonus.

For example, let’s assume that video poker has a weight of 5x, meaning that every $5 wagered counts as $25 toward your bonus wagering requirement. By playing video poker, you can effectively hack the wagering and clear your bonus much faster than if you were playing slots, which often carry a weight of 100% or even higher.

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However, not all video poker games are created equal when it comes to wagering contribution. In fact, some variants may only count toward 1% or 2% of your wager, making them virtually useless for bonus clearing. To ensure you’re getting the most out of your promotion, always check the weight or contributions of video poker games before you start playing. Sticking to the most beneficial options can save you countless hours of grinding and significantly improve your overall experience.

Ultimately, understanding how video poker fits into online casino bonuses requires a bit of research and due diligence on the part of the player. However, for savvy gamblers willing to put in the legwork, it’s possible to turn what seems like an unfavorable promotion into a major advantage.

Tips

Here are a few handy hints to help you get the most out of your online video poker experiences:

• Play Max Coins – If possible, always play maximum coins. This is especially true when trying to hit a royal flush, as the payout is usually a progressive jackpot that can be well into the thousands. While it’s true that losing a large bet hurts more than dropping a smaller one, having enough bankroll to play max coins should always be a priority if you want to win big.

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• Get the Right Poker Face – Body language can be crucial in poker and other card games. Since you’re playing alone when it comes to video poker, this tip isn’t really applicable. Still, it’s a good excuse to practice your best Jen Tilly impression from . Any resemblance to Andrew “LeChien” Bartalini is purely coincidental, of course.

• Quit While You’re Ahead – No, we’re not talking about rebuking advice. We’re encouraging you to know when to fold ‘em (or in this case, hit exit). The old adage about not throwing away winnings on one more hand or spin of the reel applies to video poker as much as anything else. Set a goal for what you’d like to win and quit once you achieve it. Even if you feel like you’re on a hot streak, the law of averages is bound to catch up with you eventually.

• Use Automatic Hold Features with Caution – Some video poker games automatically hold whatever cards could lead to a paying hand, usually a pair or better. While this might sound like a good idea, it actually alters optimal strategy in significant ways. Only use this feature if you are absolutely certain it aligns with your strategy.

• Mind the Company – Some video poker games are surrounded by an assortment of slot machines. This setup can be distracting and take away from the concentration needed to play video poker successfully. Do yourself a favor and seek out games located in a quieter corner of the casino, preferably in an area populated by other video poker enthusiasts who appreciate the skill and strategy required to excel at the game.

How to Choose the Best Video Poker Game

With so many exciting video poker games to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. Here are a few factors to consider when selecting the perfect game to suit your needs:

• Pay Tables – Pay tables vary widely from game to game, so it’s important to compare different options and choose one with favorable payouts for the hand rankings you tend to achieve. Generally, games that prioritize payouts for higher-ranked hands (such as straight flushes or four-of-a-kinds) over lower ones (like pairs or low mobsters) are considered more advantageous for the player.

• Jackpots – Some video poker titles feature progressive jackpots, which can grow considerably if no one hits the requisite royal flush for several days. If you enjoy chasing big wins, these games can be quite appealing. Just remember to always play max coins to qualify for the full jackpot amount.

• Wild Cards – Variations like Deuces Wild or Joker’s Wild introduce wild cards that can spice up the action and increase the difficulty (and potential rewards) of the game. If you’re looking for a real challenge, these games are definitely worth checking out.

• Strategy Complexity – Different video poker variants may require subtly (or significantly) different strategic approaches. If you enjoy delving deep into optimization and finding every possible edge, look for games that offer rich strategic depth. On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, a simpler game might be a better fit.

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Ultimately, the best video poker game is one that strikes a balance between enjoyment, challenge, and potential winnings. Don’t be afraid to try out a variety of titles to find the ones that resonate with you. With so many great options available, there’s bound to be a video poker game out there that feels tailor-made for your unique style and preferences.

Mobile vs. Desktop

Thanks to advancements in technology, you no longer need a desktop computer to play your favorite video poker games. Nowadays, most titles are available on mobile devices, allowing you to enjoy the action wherever and whenever you like.

So, should you play video poker on desktop or mobile? The answer largely depends on your personal circumstances and preferences. Let’s break it down:

Desktop Advantages:

• Larger Screen: Laptops and desktops typically offer a larger display area, which can be beneficial for seeing intricate card layouts and details.
• More Powerful Hardware: Desktops often boast beefier processors, graphics cards, and memory than mobile devices, potentially leading to slicker graphics and smoother gameplay.
• Easier Multi-Tabling: On desktop, you can easily open multiple gaming windows side by side or arrange them on a secondary monitor for simultaneous play. This can be particularly useful for taking advantage of bonus wagering requirements or playing in tournaments.

Mobile Advantages:

• Convenience: The ability to play video poker games on the go is the primary selling point of mobile platforms. Whether you’re waiting in line, riding public transportation, or simply craving a gaming fix outside the house, whipping out your smartphone or tablet allows you to satisfy your urges practically anywhere with internet access.
• Touchscreen Controls: Touchscreens offer a more intuitive and immersive way to interact with video poker games, closely mimicking the physical buttons and screens found in casinos.
• Instant Access: Mobile gaming is typically one click away, thanks to streamlined apps and HTML-based web applications. With desktop computers, you often need to download and install bulky clients before you can even launch a game.

Overall, both desktop and mobile platforms have their own strengths and weaknesses. If you prioritize a huge, high-performance gaming experience tied to a physical desk, desktop video poker might be your best bet. On the other hand, if you value freedom, convenience, and portability above all else, a mobile setup could be the way to go.

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Luckily, many online casinos now offer both desktop and mobile clients, allowing you to switch between platforms seamlessly. So don’t be afraid to try out both options and see which one suits your style. Regardless of whether you’re lounging on a couch or cruising on public transit, there’s a video poker game waiting to be played right now… and all you need is a few clicks or taps to reach it.

Where Can I Play Online Video Poker?

Now that you’ve had a chance to familiarize yourself with the top video poker games, the next question is: where can you play them? Fortunately, many of the offer robust video poker sections alongside a wide range of other virtual table games and slots.

When choosing a site for your video poker exploits, there are a few key factors to consider:

• Legality and Licensing: Make sure the casino holds a valid license from a reputable regulatory body and operates in a jurisdiction where online gaming is legally permitted.
• Game Selection: Check out the video poker catalog to ensure it offers a decent variety of quality titles with competitive pay tables.
• Banking Options: Look for a casino that provides convenient and secure deposit and withdrawal methods, especially ones that match your preferred funding sources.
• Bonuses and Promotions: Compare the welcome bonuses, loyalty programs, and other special offers across different sites to find the best deals that suit your playing style.
• Reputation and Feedback: Read independent reviews, forums, and watchdog websites to gauge the casino’s standing in the community and address any red flags or complaints.

By taking these criteria into account, you can narrow down your choices and select a trustworthy and enjoyable online casino for your video poker adventures. And with the top sites offering instant-play and mobile-optimized games directly through your browser, you don’t even need to download special software to get in on the action.

Remember, responsible gaming is paramount. Always play within your means, set limits, and seek help if you feel you need it. Enjoy the thrills and strategizing of video poker in a safe and sustainable manner.

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Footnotes:

• Reference to in .

Anthony is a sports writer for GamblingSites.com covering the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and more. He also covers other various topics such as entertainments, general sports betting tips, and more.

His favorite teams are the Chicago Bears, Bulls, Cubs, and Blackhawks. He also will be a temporary fan of any team if it means winning him bets.