Welcome to Video Poker!
Video poker combines the thrill of poker with the simplicity of a slot machine. It might sound a bit complex if you’ve never played poker before, but don’t worry! This guide will break down everything you need to know, from how the game works to basic strategies for making the best hands.

Step 1: Understanding the Game

• The Deck: Video poker uses a standard 52-card deck. Your goal is to form the best 5-card poker hand.
• Placing Your Bet: Use the “+” and “-” buttons to set your virtual bet amount. You can bet up to 5 coins (or credits) per hand. Betting the maximum can increase your potential payouts if you win big.
• Dealing the Cards: Press “Deal” to receive 5 cards. Now, you get to choose which cards to keep and which to discard to make the best possible hand.

Step 2: Basic Poker Hands – What You’re Aiming For

Here are some common poker hands, ranked from lowest to highest:

• Pair: Two cards of the same rank (e.g., two Queens).
• Two Pair: Two different pairs (e.g., two 8s and two 4s).
• Three of a Kind: Three cards of the same rank (e.g., three Kings).
• Straight: Five consecutive cards of different suits (e.g., 4, 5, 6, 7, 8).
• Flush: Five cards of the same suit, not in sequence (e.g., all Hearts).
• Full House: Three of a kind plus a pair (e.g., three 10s and two 3s).
• Four of a Kind: Four cards of the same rank (e.g., four Aces).
• Straight Flush: Five consecutive cards of the same suit.
• Royal Flush: The best hand – Ace, King, Queen, Jack, and 10, all of the same suit.

Step 3: Making Your Moves

• Hold or Discard: After the first deal, choose which cards you want to keep by pressing “Hold” on each one. Then, press “Draw” to replace the other cards. The goal is to create the best possible hand.
• Example: If you’re dealt 5 cards (e.g., King, King, 7, 4, 2), it’s usually a good idea to hold the pair of Kings and draw new cards for the other three.

Step 4: Basic Strategy – How to Make Smart Decisions

• Always Keep High Cards: If you don’t have any pairs or combinations, keep cards like Jacks, Queens, Kings, or Aces. They can help you form a pair or better hands in the next draw.
• Hold Pairs: If you’re dealt a pair, keep it! Even a low pair has a good chance of turning into a “Three of a Kind” or “Full House.”
• Go for a Royal Flush: If you’re dealt cards that could potentially make a Straight or Flush (e.g., 10, Jack, Queen, King of the same suit), go for it!

Step 5: Practice in the Social Casino

Video poker involves some strategy, but it’s easy to pick up. Use social casino games to practice, try different hands, and get a feel for how the game works—all with virtual coins.

Pro Tip: Check out the game’s “PayTable” to see how much each hand pays. This can help guide your decisions while you play.