Video Poker – Man Versus Machine
Video Poker is not for the player who loves the thrill of bluffing or outsmarting opponents. It is played with the one player and a machine, which means you will rely more on the luck of the draw than skill. Knowing that you have a good hand, it is very unlikely that you will second guess yourself because of an opponent’s response to their cards. On the other hand, you will not be able to bluff your way through a lousy hand. Here are a few tips to help win at Video Poker.
Stick to the winning scenarios. Having a straight that does not skip a number is more likely to be a winner. Be aware of the statistical odds and play to them. Remember, no one is trying to trick you, so focus more on the odds that your hand will be a winner. Be smart about the hand you have. Flushes (cards of the same suit regardless of numerical value) may not be as lucrative as a straight (cards that are consecutive, like 4, 5, 6), but you have better odds of winning more often by working toward them when your hand has more of one suit. Face cards can be a great payoff, but they are usually a drain. Only hold on to them when you are very confident that you will be able to play them. As your skill at Video Poker increases, try out some of the higher stakes machines. If you are familiar with the odds and play at a machine, you might as well be getting better winnings.
About the only part of Poker that translates into Video Poker is the set of rules. The atmosphere is different because the only emotions present are the single player’s emotions. The game is man versus machine, a much colder, more calculating match than you will experience at a Poker table.
