Video poker is quickly becoming one of the most popularly played casino games. Not only is the game fast paced and fun to play, but it also allows each individual player to use their mind to develop strategies for playing. Let’s take a look at exactly what video poker is, and if there is a Jacks or Better video poker strategy that can increase your odds of winning.
What is Jacks or Better Video Poker?
If you know how to play 5 card draw poker, the rules for Jacks or better are the same. The difference between the two? You can’t raise or bluff in Jacks or Better, you simply make one initial bet and hope to win the hand. How do you win? You need to obtain a hand that includes a pair of jacks or better! If you do, you win the game. If you don’t, the house wins the game.
To play Jacks or better, you select the number of credits you want to wager. From there you are dealt 5 cards. You select which cards you want to keep, and what cards you want to discard for new ones. You are then dealt your new cards, which will be the determination of whether or not you win the hand.
Jacks or Better Video Poker Strategy
Your chances of winning at Jacks or Better video poker really comes down to two things; the luck of the draw, and the cards that you choose to keep. Picking the right cards to discard can greatly increase or decrease your chances of winning. Here are a few tips to keep in mind the next time you play Jacks or better.
If your first hand gives you two pair or better:
- The first thing you should check for after a hand is dealt is whether or not you already hold the cards for a payout (pair of Jacks or better). If you hold two pairs or better (three of a kind, straight, flush, full house, four of a kind, straight flush, or royal flush), you want to hold onto these cards
- The exception to this rule: If you have 4 cards of a royal flush, always keep them. Why? If you ever do win with a Royal flush, you will get the largest payout available.
Jacks or Better Video Poker Strategy
If your first hand gives you a pay pair:
- If your first hand gives you a pair of Jacks, Queens, Kings, or Aces, you have what is known as a “pay pair”. Always keep these, along with any other pairs that you may have in your hand.
- The exception to this rule: If you have 4 cards of a Royal flush, or 4 cards of a straight flush, keep them instead.
Jacks or Better Video Poker Strategy
If your first hand gives you a non-pay pair:
- If your hand has any pairs from 2 to 10, you have a non-pay pair hand. You should always keep these pairs in hopes of drawing two pair or three of a kind.
- The exception: If you have any 4 flush cards, or 3 royal flush cards, keep them instead.
These are just a few of the tips to help you get started with your Jacks or better video poker strategy. When playing, always remember that Jacks or better is a game related to odds. Once you know your odds of winning with any specific hand, your chances of winning are greatly increased.
