Which Video Poker Machine - Choose Wisely!

Making your first choice of which Video Poker machine to play can often be a daunting one. From what you've read so far on this site, you already know that the payout for each hand is important, and every distinct payout schedule deserves to be looked at and analyzed. For this reason, as a beginner, your best bet is to stick to a tried and true machine.

Remember that casinos have no problems with changing the pay tables on their machines. They know most people don't even take the time to look, and even less ensure that there isn't a distinct difference from a 'standard' table.

Be very aware of short-pay on low level hands. Many machines will offer a nice big max-coin payoff, but short-change you on a more common hand. Don't be fooled here, those single coin differences in easier to attain hands can often have a much larger overall effect than the biggest royal payoff.

Generally, following the logic I just outlined, it's a good idea to stay away from a new fancy Video Poker machine. By new machines I mean new variations of Video Poker. Usually new games have some interesting foible that sets them apart, and also sets your strategy on it's ear. If it makes you feel any better, the pros all use classic machines.

Don't read a book by it's cover. The name game in Video Poker is a funny one, so pay no attention to what the machine is called if you haven't heard of it before. Double double bonus pays less than double bonus. That pretty much says it all.

The casino doesn't follow any particular patterns when placing a Video Poker machine. A full pay Jacks or Better may sit directly beside a short-pay one.