Video poker combines the strategy of poker with the simplicity of slot machines, making it a popular choice among players who appreciate both skill and chance. To maximize your chances of winning, understanding the game’s mechanics, as well as the terms and conditions associated with online casinos, is crucial. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to play video poker effectively at online casinos like Fat Pirate Casino review.
Step 1: Registration
Before you can start playing video poker, you need to create an account at your chosen online casino. Follow these steps:
- Visit the Casino Website: Navigate to the casino’s homepage.
- Click on ‘Sign Up’: Locate the registration button, usually found at the top right corner.
- Fill in Your Details: Provide personal information, including name, email, and date of birth.
- Verify Your Account: Check your email for a verification link and follow the instructions.
Step 2: Claiming the Bonus
Many online casinos offer bonuses to attract new players. Understanding these bonuses can enhance your bankroll. Here’s how to claim them:
- Check the Bonus Terms: Look for the welcome bonus details in the promotions section.
- Understand Wagering Requirements: Most bonuses come with wagering requirements, typically around 35x the bonus amount. This means if you receive a £100 bonus, you’ll need to wager £3,500 before you can withdraw.
- Opt-In for the Bonus: Some casinos require you to manually opt-in to receive the bonus during registration.
- Deposit Funds: Make your first deposit as required to activate the bonus.
Step 3: Choosing the Right Game
Not all video poker games offer the same return to player (RTP) percentages. Here’s how to choose a game:
- Look for High RTP: Aim for games with an RTP of at least 97% to improve your odds.
- Understand Variants: Familiarize yourself with game variants such as Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, and Joker Poker, each with different strategies and payouts.
Step 4: Placing Your Bet
After selecting your game, it’s time to place your bet. Here’s how:
- Select Coin Value: Choose how much each coin is worth, typically ranging from £0.01 to £5.00.
- Decide the Number of Coins: Select how many coins you wish to play per hand, usually between 1 to 5.
- Hit ‘Deal’: Once your bet is set, click the deal button to receive your cards.
Step 5: Playing the Hand
After receiving your cards, follow these steps to make your decisions:
- Evaluate Your Hand: Assess which cards can be held to form the best possible poker hand.
- Select Cards to Hold: Click on the cards you want to keep. The rest will be discarded.
- Draw New Cards: Hit the draw button to replace the discarded cards.
Step 6: Understanding Payouts
Once the hand is complete, you’ll need to know the payout structure:
- Check Payout Table: Each game has a payout table that shows what each hand pays. High-ranking hands like Royal Flushes usually offer the best payouts.
- Calculate Your Winnings: Multiply your bet by the payout multiplier to determine your winnings.
Step 7: How to Withdraw
After winning, you may want to withdraw your funds. Follow these steps:
- Go to the Cashier: Navigate to the banking or cashier section of the website.
- Select Withdrawal Method: Choose a method that suits you, such as bank transfer, e-wallet, or credit card.
- Enter Your Amount: Specify how much you wish to withdraw, keeping in mind any minimum withdrawal limits.
- Confirm Your Request: Review your withdrawal details and confirm the transaction.
Payout Comparison Table
| Video Poker Variant | Typical RTP (%) | Wagering Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Jacks or Better | 99.54% | 35x |
| Deuces Wild | 97.87% | 30x |
| Joker Poker | 98.80% | 40x |
By following these steps and understanding the math behind video poker, you can enhance your gaming experience and make more informed decisions. Remember, the key to successful play lies not only in luck but also in strategy and understanding the terms of the games you choose to play.