Video Poker

What Is Video Poker?

Played solo on a digital interface, the goal is simple: build the best five-card hand you can. You’re dealt five cards, choose which ones to keep, and then draw replacements. Payouts are based on poker hand rankings—land a strong hand, and you cash out.
It’s a mix of luck and logic, and with a bit of strategy, you can even boost your odds of winning—something that makes it stand out from pure games of chance.

A Quick History of Video Poker

Video Poker might seem modern, but its roots date back to the mid-1970s, when casino operators first began combining the mechanics of draw poker with the emerging tech of video slots. The earliest machines appeared in Las Vegas, running simple software on clunky cabinets with small screens.

By the early 1980s, "Jacks or Better" became the gold standard of Video Poker. As technology advanced, casinos introduced new versions like Deuces Wild and Bonus Poker, sparking a video poker boom that spread across both land-based and online casinos.

What helped Video Poker gain traction? It offered players higher payout percentages, anonymity (no need to bluff at a table), and an interactive, skill-based experience.

Who Can Play Video Poker?

One of the biggest draws of Video Poker is how approachable it is. You don’t need to know all the ins and outs of poker strategy to start—you just need a basic understanding of poker hands and a willingness to try your luck.

Video Poker is ideal for:

• Strategic players who enjoy having some control
• Beginners wanting to ease into poker without live pressure
• Slot fans looking for a game with better odds
• Mobile users after a clean, quick-play experience

Types of Video Poker Games

Video Poker comes in a variety of exciting formats—some classic, some with wild twists. Here are the most popular versions:

• Jacks or Better – The most widely played. You win with a pair of Jacks or higher.
• Deuces Wild – All 2s are wild, creating more high-value hands and more volatility.
• Bonus Poker – Offers boosted payouts for certain four-of-a-kind hands.
• Double Bonus & Double Double Bonus Poker – Extra high payouts, but also higher risk.
• Joker Poker – One Joker is added to the deck as a wild card.
• Multi-Hand Video Poker – Play multiple hands at once—great for high-energy sessions.

Each version adds its own twist, and players can switch between them depending on their play style or payout preferences.

Can You Use Bonuses for Video Poker?

Yes—but with a few conditions. Many online casinos do include Video Poker in their welcome or reload bonuses, but it’s common for this category to contribute less toward wagering requirements compared to slots. Some bonuses may even exclude Video Poker altogether.

That said, there are great bonus options out there for Video Poker fans—you just have to know where to look and read the fine print carefully.

Best Types of Bonuses for Video Poker Players

1. Match Deposit Bonuses - Offered as part of welcome packages or reload promos.
   Look for low wagering requirements and bonuses that don’t exclude table games or Video Poker. Example: 100% match up to $200 with 20x wagering – and Video Poker counts 20%.
2. Cashback Bonuses - Great for low-risk players. You get a percentage of your losses refunded (daily, weekly, etc.). Works well for Video Poker since losses are usually smaller due to high RTP.
3. Reload Bonuses - Regular deposit offers that can be used by returning players. Some casinos have Video Poker-specific reloads with better conditions.
4. Comp Points & Loyalty Rewards = Many VIP programs award points for Video Poker wagers. These can be converted to real money, free chips, or entry into exclusive promos.
5. No Wagering Bonuses (Rare but Valuable)

If you’re lucky enough to find one, a no wagering bonus that includes Video Poker is pure gold. What you win is yours, no strings attached.

Tips for Using Video Poker Bonuses Wisely

• Always check the game contribution rates – Some bonuses list Video Poker at 10–20% toward wagering.
• Stick to lower volatility games like Jacks or Better to extend your balance and complete wagering easier.
• Avoid playing multiple hands at once if you’re working through a bonus—it can eat up your bankroll fast.
• Look for casinos that highlight fair bonus terms—if Video Poker is specifically included, that's a great sign.

Can You Play Video Poker on Mobile?

Definitely! Video Poker is tailor-made for mobile play, thanks to its fast pace and clean interface. Whether you’re on the train or lounging on the couch, a quick round of Video Poker is always at your fingertips. Most online casinos today offer fully mobile-compatible versions, whether you’re playing in-browser or through a casino app.

What to expect:

1. Seamless gameplay on both iOS & Android
2. Instant play with no downloads needed
3. Access to real money and free-play modes
4. Mobile-exclusive Video Poker bonuses at select sites

Why Is Video Poker Still So Popular Today?

Video Poker has remained a casino mainstay for a few key reasons:

• Better Payouts: Many versions of Video Poker offer higher RTPs than most slots—often 99% or more with the right strategy.
• Strategic Gameplay: Unlike slots, you’re not just spinning and hoping—you get to make decisions that affect the outcome.
• Solo Experience: No table pressure, no bluffing, no dealer—just you and the machine.
• Variety: Tons of versions, each with its own quirks and features.
• Cross-Platform Play: Easily playable on mobile, desktop, and tablet.

It’s this balance of skill, speed, and solid odds that keeps Video Poker a favorite among seasoned players and curious newcomers alike.

Recommended Video Poker Titles by Top Providers

If you're wondering where to start, here are some standout Video Poker games from trusted developers that offer smooth gameplay, fair odds, and polished visuals:

Real Time Gaming (RTG)

• Jacks or Better – Classic, clean, and a must-play for beginners.
• Bonus Deuces Wild – High payout potential with every 2 acting as a wild card.
• Double Double Bonus Poker – Popular among seasoned players for its big four-of-a-kind payouts.
• Aces & Eights – Features strong mid-tier payouts and solid return percentages.

Betsoft

• Joker Poker – With 53 cards (including a Joker), this one adds a fun twist.
• Split Way Royal – Unique payout structure with a low variance approach.
• Deuces Wild – Betsoft’s version is beautifully designed and mobile-optimized.

Other Worth-Trying Providers

• NetEnt’s Jacks or Better Double Up – Sleek, stylish, and offers a double-or-nothing gamble feature after each win.
• Play’n GO’s Joker Poker – Crisp graphics, smooth interface, and high RTP.

These games can typically be found at top online casinos that support these providers—many of which are also crypto-friendly and mobile-ready. Whether you're playing casually or aiming to apply strategy, these titles deliver both entertainment and solid winning chances.

Is Video Poker Worth Playing?

If you're after a casino game that gives you more control, solid odds, and fast-paced fun, Video Poker is definitely worth trying. It’s simple enough for beginners to pick up, but also rewarding for players who take the time to master strategy.

From its humble roots in Vegas to its current spot in every major online casino, Video Poker continues to thrive because it offers what players want: fun, fairness, and the potential for real rewards.
Whether you're chasing a royal flush or just having a laid-back gaming session, Video Poker is a smart and satisfying choice.