Why Video Poker?
Video poker has been a casino favorite since the 1970s when it first appeared in Las Vegas. It started with simple machines, like the “Draw Poker” game introduced by Si Redd’s company, IGT, blending the thrill of slot machines with the strategy of poker. Players loved it because it wasn’t just luck—you could use skill to tip the odds. Today, it’s a staple in casinos worldwide, and for good reason: you can beat the house, but it can be an expensive game.
One big reason for that is Nevada’s gaming laws. Back in the 1980s, the state tightened regulations to ensure fairness in video poker machines. These laws forced casinos to use random number generators (RNGs) and display paytables—charts showing what each hand pays out.
Additionally, the game must use a standard poker deck of 52 cards. This transparency let math wizards and sharp gamblers crack the code. They studied the odds, built strategies, and proved you could beat the house. For example, a game with a paytable like 9/6 Jacks or Better (9 coins for a full house, 6 for a flush) can offer over 99% return-to-player (RTP) with perfect play—way better than most slots (Wizard of Odds, 2023).
That’s the magic: skill matters. Unlike blackjack with its dealers or slots with no control, video poker pits you against a computer. You decide which cards to hold or discard, and the right choices can turn a losing session into a win. Books like Video Poker for the Intelligent Beginner by Bob Dancer (Amazon) highlight how pros—called advantage players—master this edge. It’s not a guessing game; it’s a puzzle you can solve.
The playing experience is another big draw. It’s just you and the machine—no loud crowds or pressure from other players. No bluffing or looking for ‘tells.’ You set the pace, sip your drink, and enjoy the rhythm of the game. The flashing of new hands and satisfying “ding” of a win make it relaxing yet exciting. For many, it’s the perfect casino escape.
But casinos don’t just hand over money. Gaming commissions may have made the rules, but casinos are working hard to mislead players where they can. Advantage players, armed with strategy charts and discipline, battle the house daily. Casinos fight back by tweaking machines—lowering payouts or adding tricky variations like “short-pay” games. A 9/6 machine might drop to 8/5, slashing your edge. It’s a cat-and-mouse game: players hunt for the best odds, while casinos guard their profits.
So why video poker? It’s a rare casino game where skill can outsmart luck, thanks to fair rules and a proven track record. It’s you versus the machine, with a chance to win big if you play smart. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, it’s a gamble worth taking.
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