The first main variation to look for is high-pay and low-pay video poker games. These two basic types are typically made to cater to those with differing intent, e.g. winning big vs. just having fun.
Low-pay games typically have a low RTP, Return-To-Player, percentage and a lower “house edge”, the percentage of lost bets returned to the casino. This essentially means that while you may lose less frequently, you will not win large amounts.
High-pay games, on the other hand, have a higher RTP percentage and house edge. This essentially means that though you will win larger amounts, you will win less frequently over time.
Information on whether a game is low or high pay should be available in the games info section or paytable.
Jacks Or Better
Otherwise, the main variants of video poker have to do with certain special rules. Jacks Or Better video poker is largely the most common and popular style, especially amongst beginner players.
The name “Jacks or Better” refers to lowest possible hand that a player can bet on, which, going up in rank, starts with a pair of Jacks, then Queens, Kings, and Aces.
Jacks or Better video poker also offers the popular option of doubling your winnings with a bonus game whenever receiving Jacks or Better in their hand. Another bonus is that by simply having it, the player will at the very least be paid the full amount of their initial bet.
Deuces Wild
Another of the most common and popular variants, Deuces Wild is familiar name for video poker players. The name refers to the addition of “deuces” to the game, which are the four number 2 cards in a card deck. These can be used as “wild cards” which act in place of any other card in order to complete a hand.
Furthermore, players will receive a bonus reward upon winning with four-of-a-kind in deuces, second best ranking hand to the Royal Flush.
Multi-hand Video Poker
Multi-hand video poker is a variant that allows players to have multiple separate hands at the start of play. The added complexity that comes with this can potentially make the game faster paced, and more risky, though also more rewarding than other forms of video poker.
Progressive Jackpot
Progressive video poker is variant in which the grand jackpot is continually accumulating as more and more people play, much like a lottery, which can often become huge. Each player involved is therefore viable to win the progressive jackpot, making it, for many, a highly popular and exciting way to play.
Other Common Variants
The range of video poker games is wide and varied, with many other variants being popular depending on the casino you are at or logged into.
Other common and popular variants include Tens or Better, Bonus Poker, Axes And Faces, Joker Poker, Caribbean Stud, and many more. Each have their own unique and defining special rules, features, themes, and bonuses, appealing to every type of player and personality.
