Video poker is more than just luck; it’s a game where strategy can make a big difference. One of the best strategies you can learn is called Game Theory Optimal (GTO), which helps you make the best decisions every time you play video poker. This guide will explain GTO in simple terms for different types of video poker games and show you why practicing on social casinos is a great way to get started.

What Is GTO in Video Poker?

Game Theory Optimal (GTO) is just a fancy way of saying “the best moves you can make in any situation.” In video poker, there are right and wrong choices for each hand you play. GTO is about making the right choices to maximize your wins over time. Different video poker games, like Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, and Bonus Poker, have different rules, so GTO strategies can vary.

Why Should Beginners Use GTO?

GTO helps beginners avoid common mistakes. By following GTO strategies, you’ll know exactly which cards to keep and which ones to discard for each game type. This approach increases your chances of winning and makes the game more enjoyable as you understand why certain decisions are better.

GTO Strategies for Popular Video Poker Games

Let’s break down the GTO strategies for the most common video poker games in simple terms.

1. Jacks or Better – The Basics

In Jacks or Better, the goal is to get a pair of Jacks or higher for a payout. Here’s a simple GTO strategy:

• Always Keep: A Royal Flush (10, J, Q, K, A of the same suit), a Straight Flush, Four of a Kind, Full House, Flush, or Straight.
• Four Cards to a Royal Flush: If you have four cards to a Royal Flush, keep them and discard the fifth card.
• High Pairs: Hold pairs of Jacks, Queens, Kings, or Aces. These guarantee a win.
• Four to a Flush or Straight: Keep four suited cards to try for a flush or an open-ended straight.
• Three to a Royal Flush: If you have three cards to a Royal Flush (10, J, Q, K, A), keep them.
• Low Pairs: If you don’t have anything better, hold a low pair (like 2s or 3s).
• One High Card: If none of the above, keep one high card (J, Q, K, or A).

2. Deuces Wild – What to Know

In Deuces Wild, all 2s are wild and can replace any card to make a better hand. Here’s a simplified GTO strategy:

• Always Keep: A Natural Royal Flush (no 2s), Four Deuces, or Five of a Kind.
• Four to a Royal Flush: Keep four cards to a Royal Flush.
• Three Deuces: Hold three deuces; they can help form high-paying hands.
• Four to a Straight Flush: Keep four suited cards that can form a straight flush.
• Always Keep a Deuce: If you get at least one deuce, keep it in your hand. It can help form better combinations.

3. Bonus Poker – How to Play

Bonus Poker gives extra payouts for Four of a Kind, especially aces. Here’s the GTO approach:

• Always Keep: A Royal Flush, Straight Flush, Four of a Kind.
• High Pairs: Hold pairs of Jacks, Queens, Kings, or Aces.
• Four to a Royal Flush: Keep four suited high cards.
• Three of a Kind: Hold three cards to try for Four of a Kind.
• One High Card: If nothing else, hold a single high card (J, Q, K, A).

4. Double Bonus Poker – When to Risk It

In Double Bonus Poker, Four of a Kind (especially aces) pays out big. Here’s what to do:

• Always Keep: A Royal Flush, Straight Flush, or Four of a Kind.
• Three Aces: If you have three aces, keep them to aim for Four of a Kind.
• Four to a Royal Flush: If you have four cards to a Royal Flush, go for it.
• High Pairs: Keep pairs of Jacks, Queens, Kings, or Aces.

Practice GTO on Social Casinos – Here’s Why

The best way to get the hang of GTO strategies is by practicing on social casinos. Here’s why this is perfect for beginners:

1. Free Play: On social casinos like CasinoEmpire.io, you can practice without spending real money. This lets you try out different strategies and learn from your mistakes.
2. Lots of Game Choices: Social casinos offer a variety of video poker games, so you can practice GTO for each type.
3. Instant Feedback: You’ll see results immediately, so you’ll know if you’re making the right decisions.
4. Build Speed: In real tournaments, you need to make quick decisions. Practicing helps you play faster while still following GTO strategy.

Tips for Beginners

1. Study Paytables: Each game has a different payout structure. Knowing this helps you make better decisions.
2. Start Simple: Focus on one video poker game at a time. Master the GTO strategy for that game before moving on to another.
3. Practice Often: The more you practice on social casinos, the better you’ll understand and use GTO strategy naturally.

Ready to Practice?

Now that you have a basic understanding of GTO strategies for different video poker games, it’s time to put them into action. Visit CasinoEmpire.io to practice for free, build your skills, and get ready for more wins.