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What is the difference between online poker and video poker, Differences Between Video Poker & Poker in Canada

Differences Between Video Poker & Poker in Canada

Video poker refers to poker that is typically found online with added graphics and a dynamic look and feel. The gameplay is sometimes stripped down slightly to resemble slots, and usually revolves around a five-card style of gameplay, which mitigates against any need for intense strategy. The game is played solo so players who want to test the water in a casino setting are able to do so without fear of reprisal from their peers should they flop and struggle to grasp the rules. Jackpots can be won with real money video poker, which offers a bonus through the colourful and exciting gameplay style. Multiplayer versions are also available. The simplicity of the gameplay represents a more contained game that requires no in-depth knowledge of poker, yet can impart knowledge upon the player as they progress through the stages of the game. One of the best aspects of playing poker - and the one that poker stars in the making need to practice on - is strategy. Strategic thinking in poker is one of the benefits that often results in the game attracting savants and developing the brainpower of those who play it regularly. Poker allows critical thinking, forward planning and fast decision making under intense pressure. Rewiring the brain to play poker enables players to gain benefits in the rest of their lives. Online poker offers a greater deal of strategic thinking, especially when playing variations that offer a live dealer experience, who adds time constraints and gives the impression of playing with others.

What is the difference between online poker and video poker?

When it comes to upping your poker game, the first place to look to gain some extra practice should be the many formats of poker available to play. Given how far technology has come, poker can be improved at home, as well as at the casino as it would have traditionally been. But the war rages on between online poker and video poker to determine which is better. While both have their strengths and limitations, the main thing they share is a difference. But what exactly is the difference between online poker and video poker.

Online Poker vs Video Poker - Skill Level

Online poker refers to poker that is played virtually, usually with strangers, though sometimes just against the CPU system of the website. For true beginners, online poker allows an easy way to fall into the game and learn the ropes, often taking advantage of free games or practice rounds. This helps teach the game and gain the confidence players might need to take their game to the next level. The game is simple and played with graphics of cards. However, playing poker online usually focuses on the stringent rulebook which enforces how the game should be played and what players can and can’t do. Depending on the variation of poker, these rules bind the player more and more, which may be off-putting for complete novices.

Online Poker vs Video Poker - Strategic Thinking

One of the best aspects of playing poker - and the one that poker stars in the making need to practice on - is strategy. Strategic thinking in poker is one of the benefits that often results in the game attracting savants and developing the brainpower of those who play it regularly. Poker allows critical thinking, forward planning and fast decision making under intense pressure. Rewiring the brain to play poker enables players to gain benefits in the rest of their lives. Online poker offers a greater deal of strategic thinking, especially when playing variations that offer a live dealer experience, who adds time constraints and gives the impression of playing with others.

Video poker is less in the way of strategic thinking - and often has the winning hand combinations listed - but can benefit thinking in other ways. Sometimes in order to progress through levels of intellectual thinking, you have to ensure you can do simpler tasks as second nature. Succeeding in video poker can help strategic thinking when it comes to playing more advanced games of poker as it cements the basic poker knowledge, allowing your brain to think of the strategic angle. That’s not to say there isn’t strategy involved in choosing the hands and anticipating the next move, but it’s a good step for beginners in that respect.

Online Poker vs Video Poker - Mobile

Being able to play poker on the go is a huge benefit that both online poker and video poker share. While online poker might offer the basic poker cards and table graphics, video poker goes the extra mile and offers graphics that give a completely immersive poker experience, which can transform the commute into your very own casino. The graphics of video poker offer a huge advantage over standard online poker and can enhance the experience and provide a greater level of engagement for players. Newer players can benefit from this, which may tip the scales when players are deciding how to play poker.

There are benefits to both online poker and video poker and ultimately it falls down to personal preference and the needs of the moment as to which one would suit a particular player. The differences in game style ensure that all poker needs are met between the two and offer different gameplay styles depending on the mood. Both online poker and video poker offer an easier game than traditional land-based poker, which requires not just a strong working knowledge of poker and its variants, but a head for strategy and an ability to contain emotions in the bluffing aspect of the game. The progressive jackpot nature of online and video poker also offers a greater appeal as those who do well are likely to be in with a chance of winning more than sitting at a traditional poker table.

Video Poker vs Table Poker – What’s the Difference?

Timothy Allin

Perhaps we’ve noticed the form of poker known as “video poker” in our online or local casino. We may have wondered how it differs from regular poker played against other players.

For example, does being a good poker player increase our chances of making money at the video poker?

How possible is it to play video poker profitably in the long run?

These are just a few of the questions we’ll address in this article along with several others that will help you determine whether or not to jump on the video poker tables.

Slots or Poker?

Most similarities stop with the name. In fact, video poker is more of a poker-themed slots machine than actual poker.

One significant difference is that video poker is engineered to ensure that the house makes a profit over the long run. Similar to slot machines, video poker machines are configured to offer what’s known as a specific “payback percentage”. For example, a video poker game with a payback of 95%, means a player will receive $95 back from the machine for every $100 he invests on average (assuming he plays perfectly).

The outlook for playing professionally is on the grim side, but there are still potential ways for the especially astute to turn a profit (as we’ll discuss a little later).

The Skill Element

Although video poker machines can vary significantly depending on the specific software, most offer some sort of draw variant of poker. Players are dealt 5 cards and allowed to discard any number of them in an attempt to improve their hand.

This means there is a skill element to video poker. A player will be able to achieve the maximum payback percentage by picking the mathematically correct option for each draw. However, regardless of how well the player plays, it won’t generally increase the long-run payback percentage to above 100%, otherwise, the casino would risk making a loss.

There are exceptions to this, however, with some casino’s occasionally offering payback marginally above 100%. This would presumably make professional play possible, but large amounts of skill would be required.

Video Poker Variations

Different types of video poker are offered, so it’s worthwhile checking out the exact rules before investing.

Here are some common variants -

Jacks or Better – The most common type of video poker, often simply called “Draw Poker”. It is named such since payouts begin if a player makes a pair of Jacks or better.

Tens or Better – It’s in the name, this machine pays out with a pair of tens or better.

Jokers Wild – Jokers are dealt as wild cards. A joker can substitute for any other card in the deck (whichever results in the strongest possible hand). Jokers wild also offers a “five of a kind” type hand. This is typically considered one of the tougher video poker games to master and receive the maximum payback.

Deuces Wild – Deuces are wild in this variant. This format of video poker has been known to run (albeit rarely) with payback yields as high as 100.8%. Of course, the edge is marginal, variance would be high, and let’s not forget, it requires a perfect strategy of a somewhat complicated game.

Vultures and Progressive Jackpots

Some formats of video poker offer progressive jackpots. The progressive jackpot is something that builds over time, making huge jackpots potentially possible.

Although this does not increase the expectation of playing the machine, in the long run, the expectation at any given time will be linked to the size of the progressive jackpot. This means that favourable long-run win rates become possible (in the short term) if the progressive jackpot is high enough. Some casinos even advertise when the progressive jackpot is above a particular value in an attempt to attract traffic.

Other forms of video poker offer larger payouts for certain types of poker hands when a certain number is reached. The payout for a flush might be significantly higher for every fourth flush hit (depends on the exact software).

This feature brings in players known as “vultures” who try and time their approach to various video poker machines. They wait until another player has hit three flushes and hope to swoop in quickly after he leaves. Arriving at the machine right before the higher paid hand allows that playing session to temporarily carry a positive expectation (at least until the next flush is hit).

So technically with a combination of:

a) Targeting big progressive jackpots
b) “Vulturing” specific machines
c) Finding machines with a payback of over 100% and playing perfectly

It would be possible to play video poker with a positive expectation, even professionally.

However, it would clearly be a difficult feat to pull off, and some would argue, not worth it. Certain practices such as “vulturing” may even be considered unethical and in extreme cases can get you thrown out of a casino.

Even playing a game of video poker perfectly for hours on end could, unfortunately, make us the target of suspicion from the casino floor staff.

Play Video Poker for Real Money Online in Canada

Video Poker is one of the first casino games to be implemented into a computerized platform. Since its introduction into the online casino scene, it has gained so many fans from all over the world.

Because of its popularity, we have seen so many Video Poker variations being developed by so many casino software providers. For those that have been playing Video Poker for the longest time, they will notice that the game has changed quite a lot.

Below, we look at the features that have changed since the game’s invention.

How And When Video Poker Appeared?

The history of Video Poker is very fascinating as much as the history of personal computer development. The first ‘primitive’ version of Video Poker was introduced back in the 1970s. It was named the Draw Poker. This version of Video Poker was developed by IGT back in 1979. The game grew in popularity through the 80s to date.

Many land-based casinos all over the world offered Video Poker and due to the game’s popularity, it was then introduced to online casinos. It was in the mid-90s when Video Poker emerged at online casinos. A lot of players figured out which were the best games to play.

This was mainly determined by the return to player percentage (RTP) as well as the bonus features. Also, many players learned about online casino bonuses and figured out how to properly profit from the game, thereby creating Video Poker strategies. For that reason, it became beneficial for players to play online Video Poker than at land-based casinos.

Difference between Poker And Video Poker

Video poker is the child of poker, and each is equally loved and played by Canadian gamblers. However, despite this fact, there are a few notable differences between the two poker games.

The main difference between poker and video poker is that video poker can be played both online and offline. To add on to that, video poker just needs the basic knowledge of poker. This means to say that the game is simpler than its predecessor is. In addition, due to the fact the game is computerized, it comes with more versions as compared to poker in general. Furthermore, when it comes to video poker, it is much easier for players to control and manage their bankroll.

Other differences in the two games include the fact that in video poker, the hand values are set. Whereas, with poker, some hand values will not give the player any wins. Furthermore, video poker comes with many strategy charts that you can use during the game. However, with regular poker, these will not do you any good. While regular poker requires a player to possess various skills like bluffing, this is not the case with video poker.

Simple and Predictable

The main difference between Video Poker and actual Poker is simplicity. Also, there is no virtual croupier involved so there’s no chance of being cheated. This is also because of the use of the RNG which ensures that each game is separate from the previous or the next, and is not influenced by anything else.

Here, at Top 10 Canada Casinos, we recommend that you shop around for a legal and legit online casino to play online Video Poker at. It’s also very important that you know that Video Poker doesn’t require too many strategies. It’s a simplified game. That means you only need to know a little in order for you to start playing it.

Another great advantage is that you can actually predict the game’s outcome. You can do this by simply looking at the machine. For example, if the game is ‘Tens or better’, it means that the player will only get paid for a combo that’s a pair of tens and better.

Because of this, you can actually calculate the possible payback as you are playing. However, it comes with a disadvantage also. As mentioned above, you have no opponent when you play except the computer. This means there’s no cheating involved and no interaction whatsoever.

You can choose to play Video Poker for real money at a land-based casino or at an online casino, the choice is yours. However, whatever choice you go for, make sure you practice responsible gambling.

Reasons To Play Video Poker

The RTP in most Video Poker games is 99%. Meaning that for every C$100 that is wagered you can win at most C$99. Take for instance Jacks or Better comes with a 99.54% RTP.

Depending on the amount of money that you would have wagered, players who play Video Poker have the chance to walk away with huge real money prizes.

If you love to use strategy when you play, there are several that you can use as you play Video Poker.

The Video Poker game variations are wide. Meaning that you have a plethora of games that you can choose from.

There are tonnes of Video Poker tournaments that players can take part in.

How to Play Video Poker

Video Poker is played with a standard 52-card deck. Players are given 5 cards. The cards can be discarded so that more cards can be drawn from the same deck in order to replace the first cards drawn. Unlike in online slots, the result of each Video Poker game is not completely dependent on the Random Number Generator (RNG). The result of a game also depends on interactions with the player and his decisions. For this reason, skill is required in order to win.

When playing free online Video Poker, 5 cards are drawn as well but this time, the player doesn’t have an opponent. For the game to start there should be a bet of between 1 and 5 coins of a certain value. Next is the interaction part where the player is offered a chance to either improve or worsen their hard.

They do this by discarding the given cards and then drawing new ones. After the cards are drawn, the player can then click on the Deal button. At this point, the player only has to cross their fingers and hope that their hand is good. If it is, they win and the amount won depends on the bet size. To get more information on the game, visit the How To Play Video Poker Guide.

Video Poker Hands

Royal Flush

This is the most powerful hand that you can get as you play Video Poker. This is a 5 card hand of the same suite. Take, for instance, 10, J, Q, K, A all of the hearts. Normally, the Royal Flush will pay out between 200x and 300x your initial bet size.

Straight Flush

This is the second-best hand that you get. This hand consist of 5 consecutive cards of the same suit. Take, for instance, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 all of Spades. The difference between a Straight Flush and the Royal Flush are the card values. Straight Flushes pay out between 40x and 60x your initial bet.

4 of a Kind

This hand comprises of a set of 4 cards and 1 different card. Take, for instance, a full set of Aces, and one 2 of spades; A, A, A, A, 2. Payouts for this hand are between 20x and 30x your bet size.

Full House

A Full House consist of three cards of the same value, and two cards of the same value as well. For example, 3,3,3,7,7. The Full House will pay players between 5x and 9x their bet size.

Flush

A Flush is five cards of the same suit, in no order. For example, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 all of diamonds. Flushes usually pay out between 4x and 6x your initial bet.

Straight

This video poker hand comprises five cards, in sequential order but of different suits. E.g.: 2 of hearts, 3 of spades, 4 of diamonds, 5 of three leaves, 6 of spades. The Straight hand payout is usually pegged at 3x or 4x your initial bet size.

3 of a Kind

This hand comprises of three cards of the same denomination and any other two cards. E.g., 4, 4, 4, 10, J. 3 of Kind will in most cases payout 3x your bet size.

2 pair

The 2 pair hand comes with two pairs, ad one different card. For example, 2, 2, 4, 4, 10. Players will be paid 2x their bet size for this hand.

in Video Poker, the Pair is the lowest paying hand. It means that you have one pair and any three other cards. E.g.: 4, 4, 6, 8, 10. This hand pays out 1x your bet size. Which means you get your money back as it was.

What To Consider Before You Play Video Poker

Video Poker is a very fun and interesting casino game, meaning that players will want to jump into the action as soon as possible. However, before you jump in and play the game, there are a few things that you need to make sure that you take note of.

Make sure that you are playing at a safe and trusted real money online casino in Canada.

If you are playing the game for real money and not free video poker, always make sure to check if they have the banking methods that you can use.

Always make sure that you know the poker hands.

Be it you are playing free video poker or you are playing for real money, always make sure that you read the rules.

Play free video poker before you play for real money.

There are many variations of Video Poker, therefore, always make sure to check the game that you are playing.

Make sure to check the pay tables. This is because the table game has many different variations, and each of them comes with its own different paytable.

Video Poker Free vs Video Poker Real Money

Video Poker like most online casino games can be played for free as well for real money. There are many reasons why people chose to play free video poker. Similarly, there are also many reasons why a player chose to play online video poker for real money. Below, we shall look at some of those reasons.

Why Play Real Money Online Video Poker?

Playing for real money means that players get to claim great bonuses. Playing for real money also unlocks the many promotions that come with the game.

As you play for real money, you earn loyalty points. Which can be redeemed for real money at most real money online casinos.

If you love to use strategy when you play, there are several that you can use as you play Video Poker.

Video poker real money gives players tonnes of variations to choose from.

However, as much we love to play for real money, this also means that our money is at risk. To add on to that, this means that you will need to set up an account at the online casino, which may take longer.

Why play Free Online Video Poker

Playing free Video Poker means that the players get to play instantly without any sign up required.

With free Video Poker, players can enjoy unlimited rounds of play without having to cough up a single dime.

Free Video Poker opens up the best training ground for players seeking to improve their poker skills online.

Just as there are drawbacks to playing for real money, there are also drawbacks to free Video Poker. Such as no monetary prizes, no matter how many times you win. To add to that, there are fewer games to play.

How To Win at Video Poker

No matter we are playing free video poker or for real money, we always want to make sure that we win. That is why we, as Top10CanCasinos have a brief, but informative section on how to win at online Video Poker.

Firstly, you need to make sure that you look for basic combinations like pairs, three of a kind and four of a kind. This, in turn, will help you secure a strong winning hand.

Secondly, do not hold on to an unpaired card looking forward to the next deal. This is as you have a higher chance of losing than you do of winning.

Thirdly, always make sure that you match your card to the highest card that you have in your hand. By so doing, you have a greater chance of coming up with a winning combination.

To add on to that, do not let go of any pair that you have. Despite the fact that it is of low value. This is because, discarding that pair will, in most cases result in you getting cards that are worse.

Lastly, always aim to get a Royal Flush over a Straight Flush. However, be careful that you do not break either of the hands.

Video Poker Types

Triple play

This variant of video poker allows players to play three hands at once. And it is a great choice if you love multitasking.

Double Bonus Poker

Double Bonus Poker allows players to unlock two bonuses. These will both be four of a kind.

Deuces Wild

In Deuces Wild, the 2s are the wild cards in the game. Therefore, a royal flush that holds at least one 2 means that players will get a generous payout. Furthermore, the game usually comes with a 100.7% RTP. This means should you opt to play for real money and not free video poker, you will win amazing rewards.

Jokers Wild

In Jokers Wild, the Jokers act as the wild card in the game. To add on to that, players need to get a pair of kings or better in order for them to receive a payout. The game is played with 53 cards and comes with a 100.6% RTP.

Double Double Bonus

The game on the Double Bonus Poker. That being said, it pays more for four of a kind wins. Also, the game comes with a 100% RTP.

Multi-Play

In this version of the game, players are allowed to play as many poker hands as they please.

Aces and Faces Video Poke

is based on 5 card draw. Each player will be dealt 5 cards and they will be able to change some or all of the cards just one time

Play Video Poker for Fun Right Away

Of course, we have already mentioned that online Video Poker requires a bit of skill. What that means is that for someone who has never played the game before, playing for real money right away is a huge risk. This is why we suggest that you play Video Poker for free first.

Playing free Video Poker no download allows you enough time to practice before wagering real money. You will be delighted to know that most of the online casinos in Canada that we have recommended on this site offer you demo versions of all of their online casino games. If you visit these casinos, you will be able to find free versions of Video Poker which you can sample for free.

As you play for free, you will be able to come up with a strategy that works specifically for you and for a specific variation. You should note that you can only get the correct payoffs if you use the correct strategy. Video Poker strategies are the most important part of the gameplay.

As you play Video Poker online, you should look at your hand and then search for the cards that match a suitable hand. When you find these cards, you must discard the other cards. One thing to note is that this process is a bit difficult to master.

Also, it differs with each Poker machine. You are definitely bound to make mistakes now and again as you play. It’s ok, don’t fret over it. The only thing that we suggest is that you stick to your budget. Also, never chase your losses. If you do, chances are high that you will end up losing even more money. Choose a trusted casino today from our site and start playing now!

Tips for Playing Video Poker

Since we want to get the best out of the game, allow us to give some great tips that will definitely improve your video poker gameplay.

Always make sure that you the hand ranks of the game that you are playing. This is as you may end up opting for a hand that does not even payout.

Use Video Poker Strategy to help you with the gameplay.

Play the max bet option to get the best rewards out of the game.

Check the paytable before you begin to play. As this will give you the values of the poker hands.

Make sure that you play a game that offers you better odds.

Play the online casino game when you are alert, playing real money online casino games when you are tired can lead to you making many mistakes.

More Casino Games for Canadian Players

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Video Poker

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Scratch Cards

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Kathy newton

I’m an online casino enthusiast, recommending only the best Canadian gambling sites. Browse this site for only the best Canadian casino websites.

Video Poker vs. Online Poker — What’s the Difference?

If you’ve been a part of the world of poker for a long time, you can probably tell the difference between video poker and online poker. However, this article is mainly aimed at beginner poker players who are still very new when it comes to poker lingo.

One of the things that many newcomers mix is online poker and video poker. Although these both have “poker” in their names, they are actually pretty different games. Let’s take a quick look at what these two types of poker and how they are different from each other.

Online Poker

If you’re reading this article, the chances are that you were actually looking for a way to play online poker. Simply put, it’s the most common type of poker nowadays, and it’s becoming more popular than live poker too.

Online poker is played on special poker platforms where you need to sign up and make a deposit. After that, you need to choose a cash game or a tournament that you want to play and sit at the virtual table where you’ll have a chance to play against other players. All opponents are real people who are also enjoying online poker.

Online poker rooms are made to resemble live poker rooms. You get to choose the stakes size, type of poker, type of cash game or tournament, and much more.

You might not be able to look at the faces of other players, but you’ll still be able to tell when someone’s bluffing just by looking at their cards. Moreover, you’ll still have an opportunity to use beginner and advanced strategies to minimize the element of luck and get the most out of your poker action.

Video Poker

Now, video poker is something completely different. It can be found in land-based and online casinos as a stand-alone machine where players get to play poker by themselves. The game is inspired by 5-card draw poker, and the rules for every video poker game are pretty much the same.

All you have to do is place a bet, and you’ll receive five cards. Once you take a look at them, you’ll have an opportunity to change some of them. After the new cards appear, it’s the end of the round, and you get paid according to the paytable, which is usually located above the game.

Unlike online poker (and any other kind of poker, for that matter), video poker is played against “the machine” instead of against other players. In other words, it’s basically a single-player game where your goal is to make as high a hand as possible and receive payouts for your results.

In the case of video poker, there are no particular strategies that can be applied — at least not those you usually apply when you play Texas Hold ’em or Omaha. However, there are some strategies regarding card-swapping in video poker that can help you lower the house edge.

Which One Is for You?

The answer is probably online poker. Simply put, it’s the most popular way to play the game, and there are already huge online tournaments where players can be rewarded with millions of dollars.

Although there are thousands of fans of video poker out there, this type of game is still just an ordinary casino game, just like video slots.

In other words, online poker comes with hundreds of books, thousands of hours of useful video content, and millions of players who create a very active community around the game.

But in the end, it’s up to you to choose which one you prefer more.

Video Poker Canada

Video Poker is immensely popular among online gamblers as it offers some of the best odds among online casino games , and a wide variety to suit beginners as well as strategically minded poker sharks. Video Poker games first arrived at brick and mortar casinos in the mid 70´s, and gained popularity because you could play them alone, taking without added pressure from the other players at a traditional poker table.

In this article, we´ll go through the basics of this game and it´s different varieties, as well as supply you with valuable tips on how to win. All The Canadian online casinos we reviewed offer a varied catalogue of Video Poker games.

How to Play Video Poker

Video Poker is similar to slots, in the sense that you are playing against a computer rather than against other players or a dealer. And just like in slots, your winnings are paid out according to a pay table for the different winning poker hands (see below), since there is no poker pot to play for. Typically the lowest winning combination is pair of Jacks. You will find the pay table in the top of the game window, or by clicking on the pay table menu item.

You start playing by clicking the game that catches your fancy. The first step is then to place you bet. In most modern Video Poker games, you can adjust both the coin value and the amount of coins you wish to bet, which in practice means you can wager anything between a few cents and hundreds of dollars per poker hand.

Next you click “Draw” and are given 5 poker cards, at which time you need to choose which to keep and which to discard. Click on the card you wish to keep, or click on Hold beneath them. Then click on “Draw” again and the cards you didn’t mark as Hold are replaced by fresh cards from the pack. If the resulting poker hand is a winning combination, you are paid your winnings according to the pay table.

Video Poker Variations

All Video Poker variations are based on Five-Card Draw poker, meaning you only have one card replacement round and that´s it. One difference between regular Five-Card Draw poker and Video Poker is that Video Poker also only allows for one betting round. With that said there are many different variants of Video Poker, and below we have a look at the most popular.

Standard Varieties

Jacks or Better: This game is named that way because pair of Jacks is the lowest winning combination, paying even money. This game uses a regular card deck of 52 cards and is the most popular and the easiest to learn to play.

Tens or Better: Just like Jacks or better, this game is played with a standard deck, the difference being that the lowest winning poker hand according to the pay table is pair of Tens. However, seeing as this variety only pays out 6x your wager for Full House and 5x for Flush, the overall gambler´s odds are actually lower in Tens or Better than in Jacks or Better.

All American: Another game closely resembling Jacks or Better. The main difference concerns the pay table, where payouts for Flush, Straight and Straight Flush are higher, while payouts for Full House and Two Pairs are lower.

Wild Card Varieties

Joker Poker: Sometimes called Joker Wild, and is essentially the same as Jacks or Better, with the difference that you play with a 53 card deck where the joker works as a wild card that replaces any card in a winning combination. This complicates the strategy, and like all other wild card variants, it introduces new poker hands that doesn´t exist in regular poker, such as Five of a Kind.

Deuces Wild: Played with a regular 52-card deck, but all twos work as wild cards. Jus like with Joker Poker it complicates your strategy, and introduces new poker hands, aside from Five of A Kind, the difference between Natural Hands (a hand with no wild card) and Wildcard Hands (a poker hand achieved with a two working as a wild). Natural hands have a higher payout.

Deuces and Joker: Combines Joker Poker and Deuces Wild, and you play it with a 53 card deck where the Joker as well as all twos act as wild cards. This is a very complicated version, and not available in most casinos.

Choosing a Winning Strategy

If you want to dig deep into Video Poker strategy, there are books as well as websites you should look up, as the best strategy depends on the game you choose to play. Below however, we list a few general tips.

Always choose to play Jacks or Better over Tens or Better or All American, as the overall player odds are better.

Compare payout tables, as they can vary from different software providers and casinos.

Never discard a winning combination in order to try to achieve a combination with higher payout.

If you are playing with wild card variety, never discard the wild card.

If you have the skill and know how, play the wild card games rather than the standard games, as they offer an edge over the casino.

Free Video Poker

Practice makes perfect and Video Poker is no exception. Whether you are a poker beginner trying to get your head around the basics, or a poker shark wanting you rehearse a strategy for Deuces Wild, the easiest way to do so is by playing Free Video Poker. All our reviewed Canadian casinos offer you to play Video Poker of different sorts for free. So don´t start playing for real money until you´ve mastered the rules and found your favorite game. Pick one of our casinos, register an account and start practicing!

Winning Video Poker Hands

Please find below the winning combinations in online Video Poker, from the lowest to the highest paying.

Pair of Jacks or higher Two jacks in different suits, the lowest paying poker hands in Video Poker.

Two Pairs: 2 pairs, each with the same numerical value.

Three of a kind: 3 cards with the same numerical value in different suits.

Straight: Five cards in numerical sequence, but not of the same suit

Flush: 5 cards of the same suit.

Full House: A Pair and Tree of a kind.

Four of a kind: 4 cards with the same numerical value in different suits.

Straight Flush: Five cards in numerical sequence of the same suit.

Royal Flush: Five cards in numerical sequence of the same suit, where the highest card is an Ace.

Note: When playing Wild card versions of Video Poker, there is also a difference between poker hands achieved without the wild cards, so called Naturals, and those achieved with help of wilds. Naturals pay significantly better. You can also get Five of a Kind.

Poker in Canada

Introduction

Currency: Canadian Dollar (CA$)

Quick Access

Casinos with Poker

Playground Poker Club

Casino de Montréal

River Rock Casino Resort

Fallsview Casino Resort

Casino Nova Scotia

The local legal landscape for gambling can be confusing at times for Canadian residents. However, when it comes to poker, especially online, they are far better off than their southern neighbors, the United States. That is despite the fact the US popularized poker to the point that it is the world’s favorite card game, and American players dominate professional poker.

But let’s not get so far ahead of ourselves.

Due to its proximity to the United States, poker got to Canada fairly early in its history, in the 19th Century. However, an 1892 law banned gambling as a whole, evidently including poker. The prohibition became more and more relaxed over the course of the next century, which culminated in the 1985 legalization of gaming machines.

Since then, gambling became a major industry in Canada. According to worldcasinodirectory.com, there are over 100 casinos operating within the country. That is quite a large number for a nation of 38 million.

The same website also published the results of a 2015 Ipsos Survey. It shows that slot machines are by far the most preferred game of chance for “the Canucks”. 90% of their population have played them, compared to the just 40% who have played poker, according to the survey.

A Canadian man, Randy Blumer, is a very important figure in modern poker history. He launched the world’s first ever real money online poker site, Planet Poker, on January 1st, 1998.

Famous Canadian Poker Players

Daniel Negreanu is one of the most successful live tournament players in poker history. He has 6 WSOP gold bracelets. He also led Hendon’s famous all time money list between June 2014 and June 2018. His lifetime tournament earnings exceed $42 million.

Negreanu’s extremely successful on social media as well. He has the most subscribers on YouTube among all poker players (507,000 as of writing this) and also the most Twitter followers among all poker players (494,000).

Evidently, Negreanu tops Hendon’s Canadian all time money list with that $42 million on his tally.

Second on that list is Sam Greenwood with $22.5 million. In 2018, he won the €100,000 EPT Super High Roller in Monte Carlo for €1.520 million. Greenwood is also a regular feature in Triton’s super high stakes live streamed cash games.

Canada is one of the 12 nations outside the United States who can boast a WSOP Main Event champion. The Great White North’s victory at the poker’s most prestigious tournament was delivered by Jonathan Duhamel. He won the Main Event in 2010, topping a 7,319-player field for $8.944 million.

What is the difference between online Video Poker and Live casino Poker?

Poker is the most popular game to be played at online casinos. There are many poker games developed by top notch gaming providers like Microgaming, Playtech Betsoft and others. These poker games are easily available to play with many variants to enjoy with real money or for free. Free and real money poker games are available at online casinos, where as real money poker games are available at live casinos.

Live Casinos are part of online casinos. These live casinos are managed by live dealers where you play poker against live dealers. These Live casinos are streamed live from a live studio directly to your home where you can play these live games with your mobile, PC or tablet. Remember that live casino games can be played only with real cash in real time and no free games are allowed here. Also you need a good internet connection or WIFI to enjoy these games.

Video Poker Games

Video poker games are available to play for free or with real money. At the start of a betting round, you’ll receive five cards. At this point, you’ll have the option to hold or swap any number of cards you like. Once you’ve made your decision, you hit the deal button and any cards you haven’t held are exchanged for new ones. If your five cards make a ranked poker hand, from ace-high to a royal flush, you’ll win a prize. The only caveat here is that video poker variants often have minimum hand requirements. For example, Jacks or Better means you need to have a pair of jacks or better to win a prize. The popular video poker games found at online casinos are Jacks or Better, Tens or Better, Joker’s Wild, Deuces Wild, Bonus poker, Double Bonus Poker, Pai Go Poker, Caribbean Stud Poker, Texas Holdem Poker and many others.

Live Dealer Poker

Unlike video poker, live dealer table poker is a played on a real table. Despite this obvious difference, the underlying aim is the same as video poker. In other words, you’ll have to make a winning five-card hand. Additionally, there may also be minimum hand requirements when you play live dealer poker.

However, the main difference is that you’ll need to beat the dealer in order to win the pot. This dynamic introduces an element of hand reading and timing that’s actually quite similar to Texas Hold’em. For example, at the start of a betting round, you’ll be dealt two cards and asked if you want to continue.

If your starting cards are strong, you can place an extra bet and see the flop (three community cards). From there, you can bet or check your way through the turn (fourth community card) and the river (the fifth community card) if you believe you can beat the dealer. Eventually, if you stay to the river, the dealer’s two cards are revealed and the strength of your hands are compared. If you win, you receive a return on your investment.

There are many types of live dealer poker games available at live casino. You can find games like Live Casino 3 Card Poker, Live Casino Holdem Poker, Omaha Poker, Hold’em Poker and other variants.

Should you play video poker or live poker?

Here are some points to note before you decide to play video poker or choose to play live poker.

First point to note is that video poker is digital game and live poker is live game. Because of this, there will be time constraints on the latter simply because there are other people involved when playing at live casino. Because video poker is digital and a solo pursuit, betting rounds take less time. In fact, video poker games are almost as quick as online pokies.

Also perhaps the most important difference between the two games is tactics. Video poker is a game of mathematics. If you can learn the hand rankings and the odds of making hands when you hold/exchange cards, you can get an edge in video poker. Live dealer poker still has an element of mathematics but timing also comes into play. By being able to read the game, the cards in play and remembering what’s been dealt, you can refine your moves. Like if the previous three hands had all contained aces, the chances of another one appearing have clearly decreased. Therefore, you wouldn’t continue to play if your only chance of winning was hitting an ace.

Video poker games can be played for free as well as with real money.

Live poker can be played at live casino with only real money. Which means if you play at live casino without understanding of poker game you are at risk of losing your money.

Finally it’s up to you to decide where to play poker, but we recommend playing first video poker games to get yourself acquainted with the game before you try to play poker at live casino.

Video Poker vs. Slot Machines

Upon first glance, video poker machines look quite similar to slot machines. However, once you get under the hood there are actually quite a few differences. This article will look at the differences between video poker machines and slot machines, and give a few tips as to what game you should play based on your personal tastes.

Video Poker Strategy vs. Slots Strategy

The main difference between video poker and slots is the fact that in video poker players have to make decisions for themselves that affect the outcome of the game, and in slots players really have no input that affects the outcome of the game.

Players in video poker have to decide what machine to play, how many credits to play, and most importantly, what cards to hold during the game. These decisions all affect the outcome of your session.

Different video poker machines have different payouts, so it’s important to choose the most profitable video poker game. You have a decision to make when it comes to how many credits to play, because almost all machines provide a royal flush bonus for playing the maximum number of credits. And of course, when you’re playing the game you need to choose the right cards to hold and the right cards to draw, or you’ll lose a lot of money.

However, in slot machines players really have no decisions. They can choose what machine to play, but almost all of them have the same payout percentages. The only real decision is how many credits/reels to play, because some slot machines have multiple reels and pay more for jackpots when you’re playing the max number of reels/credits.

Potential Profitability

Another important difference between video poker and slot machines is the fact that players can actually be consistently profitable at video poker, whilst slot machines are always a loser’s bet. By finding good pay tables, using perfect video poker strategy, and using a player’s card, you can actually exceed a 100% rate of return. Of course this isn’t easy, and it takes a lot of dedication, but it can be done. In slot machines it is simply impossible to be playing at 100+% rate of return.

Progressive Jackpots

So far this article seems like video poker is much better, but jackpots are one of the areas where a player might prefer slots. Many slot machines are “progressive slots”, which means they have a progressive jackpot that can be won by playing that machine. Progressive jackpots grow larger and larger until someone hits it, then it resets at a lower amount and starts growing again. Often times these jackpots can reach 5, 6, or even 7 figures.

There are very few progressive video poker machines, so if you’re looking to hit a big score you’re probably better off finding a slot machine with a huge progressive jackpot.

User Input in Video Poker/Slots

Another reason why players might prefer slots over video poker is the fact that you can sit at a slot machine and play without really thinking about anything. You don’t have to consider proper strategy or pay tables or rate of return – you can just gamble and enjoy yourself. This appeals to some people, so we felt it was worth mentioning.

When to Choose Video Poker

You should play video poker if you’re trying to make money, are willing to learn perfect strategy, have the dedication to find a profitable machine, and are willing to put in long sessions to try to grind out a profit. If you want to play Video Poker, we recommend checking out Bovada.com, as they’re our favorite online casino for playing Video Poker.

When to Choose Slots

You should play slots if you’re trying to enjoy yourself without thinking too much, prefer huge jackpots over small, more consistent wins, and don’t want to have to learn strategy.

More Information on Slots:

If you'd like to learn more about Slots, check out these sites:

Jacks or Better vs. Bonus Poker

Key Features

The theoretical return in this video poker

Progressive jackpot

Conclusion:

Video Poker "Jacks or Better" and "Bonus Poker" are among the most common and popular games. They are popular by both beginners and experienced casino visitors. The main reason for this popularity is a high interest in the theoretical return of the video poker.

We have prepared for you, the readers of Casinoz, a full description of Jacks or Better and Bonus Poker, so you can decide which model to prefer. However, it is possible that you will equally like both versions.

Key Features

Let's start with a description of the main features of this video poker game. They both have classic rules of one deck without jokers. The user gets five cards, if necessary, changes any number of them and gets the win for the resulting combination.

Differences between Jacks or Better and Bonus Poker tables are in odds ratios. They are very similar. Minimum hand is a pair of jacks, maximum - royal flush.

The main difference is that in Jacks or Better all quads (four of a kind) are paid equally - 25:1, and in Bonus Poker, this combination is available in three varieties: quad fives - Kings (25:1), quads deuces - quadruples (40:1) and quads aces (80:1).

It is clear that large payments in Bonus Poker for quads, of aces, deuces, threes or fours give players a significant advantage. One such combination can significantly improve the funds, that's why many fans of video poker lke Bonus Poker.

The theoretical return in this video poker

But do not think that Bonus Poker is a better kind of Jacks or Better. Increasing payments for individual quads casino loses mathematical advantage over the players. To get it back, it reduces the coefficients for other combinations. In this case, the "victims" are full house and flush.

The most profitable kind of "Jacks or Better" is called a 9/6 Jacks or Better. These nu,mbers mean that a full house is paid 9:1 and flush - 6:1. In the most generous version of Bonus Poker, these coefficients are reduced by one, and make 8:1 and 5:1. Accordingly, the best option is 8/5 Bonus Poker.

And now the main thing. The theoretical return in 9/6 Jacks or Better is 99.54%, in 8/5 Bonus Poker it is 99.17%. As you can see, inflated payments for some four of a kind can not fully compensate for truncated coefficients for full house and flush.

Of course, all fans of video poker would like to see in the casino offers exceptional model of 9/6 Jacks or Better, or 8/5 Bonus Poker, but the reality is much harsher. Jacks or Better is in versions 8/5, 9/5, 7/5, and sometimes 6/5. "Bonus Poker" may be 7/5 and 6/5.

Of course, such a reduction in payments considerably reduces the theoretical return of video poker. See for yourself:

9/6 Jacks or Better - 99,54%

8/5 Bonus Poker - 99,17%

9/5 Jacks or Better - 98,45%

8/6 Jacks or Better - 98,4%

8/5 Jacks or Better - 97,3%

7/5 Bonus Poker - 98%

6/5 Bonus Poker - 96,87%

The games range of IGT has two interesting variants of Bonus Poker, where all squares are paid equally - 35:1 or 30:1. In this case a full house and flush give eight coins and five coins, respectively, at a rate of one coin. So, the theoretical model of 35/8/5 refund is 99.66% (very good), and in the version of 30/8/5 - 98.48% (much worse).

Possible fluctuations of bankroll, often called dispersion in Jacks or Better, are quite low. This means that it is easier to play with a small amount of money. In Bonus Poker it is slightly higher, although in comparison with the other video poker games, it is also small. In any case, you should consider this Bonus Poker, if your finances are limited.

Progressive jackpot

You can choose Jacks or Better or Bonus Poker video poker with the cumulative jackpots. Usually, it is won by users who get royal flush at a bet of five coins. With the increase in the amount of the jackpot ,a theoretical return of the game also increases. For example, in the 8/5 Bonus Poker, coins are denominated in twenty-five cents and casino advantage as soon as the jackpot exceeds approximately $1,400. Keep it in mind when choosing a video poker.

Conclusion:

So which video poker to choose? Of course, if the casino has the most favorable terms for Jacks or Better and Bonus Poker, you need to play Jacks or Better, because this version is more profitable. But we must say that in today's casinos (especially online) Bonus Poker often offers higher theoretical return than Jacks or Better. So always consider this parameter.

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Differences Between Video and Live Poker

Video poker is fun and entertaining and it can also be a profitable casino game. Video poker is one of only five games that a player can win at consistently. (The other games are blackjack, live poker, sports betting and horse racing).

There are many differences between video and live poker. Some are minor, while others are very significant. Study the list below and be sure you understand each point.

Bluffing, check and raise, sandbagging and other strategies of live poker do not apply or work with video poker.

Live poker includes several stud varieties, as well as high-low games that do not relate to video poker at all. The game of five-card draw poker is the only one that applies to both video and live poker.

In casinos that are licensed to operate 24/7, video poker games are available at any time of day or night, 365 days a year. Sometimes you may not have enough players to make up a live poker game. Video poker needs no other players. It's one-on-one, you versus the machine.

Hand rankings are similar and yet can be different. Every video poker game will pay more for a straight than for three of a kind. Some pay the same for straights and flushes, and straight flushes are not always worth more than four of a kind. In live poker, four 6s are worth more than four 3s, but in video poker they are usually worth the same.

You can't lose with a good video poker hand. If you end up with three of a kind, you are going to get paid. You can't lose out to another player getting a straight flush.

There is one decision point in video poker. Live poker will frequently have several betting rounds, and sometimes several decisions per round. In video poker, you make your one choice before the draw and that's it. After the draw the game is over.

In video poker, you know at the beginning what any winning hand is worth. In live poker, three-of-a-kind may or may not be a winner, and it could cost a lot of money to find out. This is not the case with video poker. The payout chart on the machine tells you exactly what you will receive for any specific hand.

n video poker, you know at the outset what any hand costs. The amount you put in a machine is the most you can lose. You rarely know this in live poker.

A good psychologist would play well at live poker, but a good mathematical mind will do well playing video poker.

Strategy charts or crib sheets can't be used at live poker tables. Strategy charts can be very useful at video poker, and most casinos allow you to use them.

You can call "time" in live poker, which will allow you a few more minutes to make a playing decision. In video poker you don't have to worry about time at all.

Bet You Didn't Know

In recent years, video poker has become a very popular machine game in casinos. However, the first poker-playing machines were originally introduced in 1891.

Professional video poker players have been known to play on average 60 hours a week.

In 1976 the modern video poker machines began to appear in Las Vegas. At first all the cards were black and white; colored cards did not appear until almost a year later.

If you play video poker at a normal rate of 500 hands an hour, you should average one royal flush every 65 to 80 hours.

The difference between a 9/6 Jacks or Better video poker machine and one that pays 6/5 is almost seven percent.

You will see many versions of video poker in a casino, but every one of them is based upon the poker game of Five Card Draw.

So, let's define, what was the most valuable conclusion of this review: When it comes to upping your poker game, the first place to look to gain some extra practice should be the many formats of poker available to play. The most popular - traditional and video poker at Differences Between Video Poker & Poker in Canada