Once you've found a full-pay or high payout video poker machine, the optimal strategy must be played to achieve the maximum possible payout. The optimal strategy will differ for each game, so it is necessary to find a strategy chart for the particular game and pay schedule you are playing.
Attached is a strategy chart for 9/6 Jacks or Better, a common high-pay video poker machine available in many land-based and online casinos. (See the pay schedule above.) To use this chart, simply keep the highest hand on the chart and drop the remaining cards. For example, if your hand is 5,5,K,Q,J, the proper strategy would be to keep the pair of 5s and drop the high cards.
Video poker strategy charts can easily be found online, in many casino strategy books, and even in casino gift shops.
Video poker can be profitable over the long run if you remember to follow these tips:
- Always play full-pay machines, preferably those that pay out over 100%.
- Always play the optimal basic strategy for your game. Take a strategy card or printed strategy chart along to the casino with you.
- Always play the maximum number of credits to get the highest payoff when you hit a royal flush.
- Always use your players card when gambling to take advantage of casino comps and cash back.