1. Ignoring Pay Tables
The Mistake:
New players often jump into a game without checking the pay table, missing crucial details about payouts and odds. Not all video poker machines are created equal—some offer significantly better returns than others.
The Fix:
Always review the pay table before you play. Familiarize yourself with variations like 9/6 Jacks or Better, which offers a 99.54% return with optimal strategy, versus lower-paying versions that may only return 95% or less. A few minutes of research can make a huge difference in your long-term success.
2. Playing Without a Strategy
The Mistake:
Video poker may seem like pure luck, but in reality, strategic decisions greatly influence your chances of winning. Beginners often play hands haphazardly, discarding or holding cards without understanding the impact.
The Fix:
Use a basic strategy chart tailored to your specific game variant (e.g., Jacks or Better or Deuces Wild). These charts outline the best decisions for every possible hand. You can even keep one handy while playing online to boost your accuracy and results.
3. Overlooking Bankroll Management
The Mistake:
New players sometimes bet too aggressively, draining their bankroll quickly without a clear plan. This can lead to frustration and a shorter playing session.
The Fix:
Set a budget for your video poker sessions and stick to it. Decide on a bet size that lets you play multiple rounds without risking your entire bankroll. For example, if you have $50 to play, avoid max bets of $5 per hand and stick to $1 or $2 bets instead.
4. Ignoring Bonus Features
The Mistake:
Many video poker games, like Double Double Bonus or Multi-Rise Poker™, offer exciting bonus features that can boost your payouts. New players often ignore these features or don’t understand how they work.
The Fix:
Take time to learn the unique features of the game you’re playing. Bonus rounds and multipliers can significantly enhance your winnings, so don’t let them go to waste. Read the rules and practice in free-play mode to master these extras before wagering real money.
5. Playing Without Knowing the Game Rules
The Mistake:
It’s easy to assume all video poker games follow the same rules. However, each variant—whether it’s Joker’s Wild, Deuces Wild, or Triple Double Bonus—has unique rules and strategies that affect gameplay.
The Fix:
Spend time understanding the rules of your chosen game. For example, in Deuces Wild, all twos act as wild cards, while in Jacks or Better, you need at least a pair of Jacks to win. Knowing these nuances will help you make smarter choices and improve your odds of success.
Conclusion
Play smarter, win bigger! Video poker is more than a game of chance—it’s a game of skill. By avoiding these common mistakes and adopting a strategic, informed approach, you’ll set yourself up for a more rewarding experience. Whether you’re mastering pay tables, honing your strategy, or exploring exciting game variants, taking the time to learn and plan will always pay off. So, go ahead—stack the deck in your favor and make every hand count!
