How to Play Video Poker at Online Casinos
September 20, 2025

Video poker is a popular choice among online casino enthusiasts, combining the excitement of poker with the speed of slot machines. If you’re looking to get started, understanding the mechanics of the game is essential. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of video poker at online casinos like FishandSpins Casino platform.

What is Video Poker?

Video poker is a casino game based on five-card draw poker. Players aim to create the best possible hand, which determines their payout. Each game is played on a machine similar to a slot machine, but with its unique set of rules and strategies.

How Do You Play Video Poker?

Playing video poker involves several key steps:

  • Select Your Game: Choose from various video poker variants, such as Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, or Joker Poker. Each has its specific rules and payout structures.
  • Set Your Bet: Adjust the coin value and the number of coins you want to wager. The typical range is between $0.01 and $5 per coin.
  • Deal Your Cards: Hit the ‘Deal’ button to receive five cards. Assess your hand and decide which cards to keep and which to discard.
  • Draw New Cards: After discarding, hit the ‘Draw’ button to receive new cards in place of those you chose to discard.
  • Reveal Your Hand: The final hand will determine your payout based on the paytable associated with the game.

What is the Return to Player (RTP) in Video Poker?

The RTP in video poker varies depending on the variant you choose. For instance:

Game Variant RTP (%) Volatility
Jacks or Better 99.54% Low
Deuces Wild 100.76% Medium
Joker Poker 97.30% Medium

Understanding the RTP is crucial because it indicates the percentage of wagered money that the game will return to players over time.

How Do You Choose the Right Video Poker Game?

Selecting the right video poker game can significantly impact your experience and potential winnings. Here are some tips:

  • Understand the Variants: Each variant has different rules and paytables. Familiarize yourself with them to choose one that suits your strategy.
  • Check the Paytable: Look for games with favorable payouts. A good paytable can enhance your chances of winning.
  • Practice Free Games: Many online casinos offer free versions of video poker. Use these to hone your skills before wagering real money.

Common Myths about Video Poker

  • Myth 1: Video poker is purely a game of luck.
  • Truth: While luck plays a role, strategy and understanding the game greatly influence your success.
  • Myth 2: You can’t win at video poker.
  • Truth: With the right strategy and choosing high RTP games, players can achieve a positive outcome.
  • Myth 3: All video poker games are the same.
  • Truth: Different variants have unique rules, strategies, and payout structures, affecting your overall experience.

What Are the Wagering Requirements?

Most online casinos, including FishandSpins, have specific wagering requirements when you claim bonuses. Typical wagering requirements for video poker can be around 35x the bonus amount. This means if you receive a $100 bonus, you need to wager $3,500 before you can withdraw any winnings.

Final Thoughts

Video poker is an engaging and potentially rewarding game when played strategically. Knowing the rules, paytables, and suitable variants can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned player, understanding these mechanics will help you make informed decisions and improve your chances of winning.