How to Play Video Poker (Jacks or Better)
Video poker is one of the most player-friendly casino games in Las Vegas. It combines slot-machine convenience with real poker hand rankings — and unlike slots, your decisions actually affect the outcome.
Among casino games, video poker often offers some of the highest theoretical return-to-player (RTP) percentages — if played correctly.
1) Objective
Make the best 5-card poker hand possible. You are not playing against other players — only against the paytable.
2) Basic Gameplay
| Step | What Happens |
|---|---|
| 1 | Insert money or TITO ticket. |
| 2 | Choose bet size (typically 1–5 credits). |
| 3 | Press “Deal” — you receive 5 cards. |
| 4 | Select which cards to hold. |
| 5 | Press “Draw” — remaining cards are replaced. |
| 6 | If your final hand matches the paytable, you win. |
3) Winning Hands (Jacks or Better)
| Hand | Typical Payout (per 1 credit) |
|---|---|
| Royal Flush | 250 (but 800 per credit if max bet 5) |
| Straight Flush | 50 |
| Four of a Kind | 25 |
| Full House | 9 |
| Flush | 6 |
| Straight | 4 |
| Three of a Kind | 3 |
| Two Pair | 2 |
| Jacks or Better | 1 |
“9/6 Jacks or Better” (9 for Full House, 6 for Flush) is considered a strong paytable version.
4) Why Max Bet Matters
Always bet the maximum 5 credits if your bankroll allows. The Royal Flush bonus jumps from 250 per credit to 800 per credit at max bet — dramatically increasing long-term return.
If you can’t comfortably afford 5-credit bets, consider lowering denomination instead of lowering credits.
5) Basic Beginner Strategy
- Always hold a made winning hand.
- Keep 4 cards to a Royal Flush over lower pairs.
- Keep high pairs (JJ, QQ, KK, AA).
- Keep 4 cards to a flush or straight.
- Discard low unmatched cards.
Video poker rewards disciplined, consistent decisions — not emotional play.
6) Variants You’ll See in Vegas
| Game | Difference |
|---|---|
| Jacks or Better | Standard version, lowest volatility. |
| Bonus Poker | Higher payouts for Four of a Kind. |
| Double Bonus | Even bigger Four-of-a-Kind payouts, more variance. |
| Deuces Wild | All 2s are wild cards. |
7) Common Beginner Mistakes
- Not betting max credits.
- Playing bad paytables (like 8/5 instead of 9/6).
- Breaking strong draws incorrectly.
- Playing too fast without thinking.
Video poker has lower house edge than most slots — but only with proper strategy.
Responsible Gaming
Even with skill elements, video poker still involves risk. Set limits before playing and treat it as entertainment. Never chase losses and walk away when your budget is reached.