In short, video poker can be described as a combination of slot machines and poker and because of that managed to gain popularity among the fans of both games. In land casinos video poker is played on special machines resembling slots and this look can also be found if we play video poker online. Also the general way of playing this game is very similar to playing on slot machines.

Of course each version of video poker has different rules and objectives in order to win money. However, this can be simplified with some general overall rules with Video Poker.

A game of video poker begins when a player places a bet by inserting a coin or betting online credits. After that the player is dealt five cards. And here is where the ‘poker part’ of video poker begins.

Like in draw poker, the player can choose to discard one or more cards and receive new ones instead, aiming to get the best possible video poker hand. After that is done, the computer analyses the hand and calculates the payout.

Payout tables vary from casino to casino and from one video poker game to another. Most typically payouts start from a pair of jacks and their size follows the hierarchy of hands known from regular poker games.

Video poker comes in many variations, though the game most commonly found in online and land casinos is Jacks or Better, with the payout starting from the pair of jacks and the highest prize for a Royal Flush.

Many other variants of video poker are basically a modification of Jacks or Better and the main difference is the structure of payouts. Because of that you should always check the rules of the video poker you are planning to play, so you know exactly what you should be aiming for.

As video poker does not require as much skill and strategic thinking as regular poker, it is a good option for those looking for lighter poker experience. Additionally, thanks to the various payout schedules and bet sizes, video poker can be played by all, regardless of their budgets.