Video poker is a unique blend of slot excitement and poker strategy, offering UK players the chance to influence outcomes with skillful play. Unlike traditional slots, video poker’s Return to Player (RTP) can be significantly improved by making informed decisions. Understanding the mechanics and employing basic strategies can help maximize your returns and extend your top UK casino sites gameplay.
Understanding RTP in Video Poker
RTP, or Return to Player, represents the theoretical percentage of wagered money that a game will pay back over time. For instance, a video poker game with an RTP of 99% is designed to return £99 for every £100 wagered in the long run. Unlike slots, player choices in video poker—such as which cards to hold or discard—can directly affect the RTP.
Choose the Right Video Poker Variant
Not all video poker games are created equal. Some popular variants include:
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Jacks or Better: Offers a high RTP, often over 99% with optimal strategy.
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Deuces Wild: Can reach RTPs of 100%+ on full pay versions but is more complex.
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Bonus Poker: Offers higher payouts for certain hands, but requires precise play to maintain a high RTP.
Selecting a game with a high base RTP is the first step in maximizing your returns.
Learn Basic Strategy
Each video poker variant has an optimal strategy for deciding which cards to hold or discard. For example, in Jacks or Better:
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Always hold a winning hand.
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Keep high pairs over low pairs.
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Opt for a four-card straight or flush over a single high card.
Using a strategy chart or practicing on free play versions can help you internalize these rules. Following optimal strategy consistently can increase RTP from around 95% to over 99%.
Manage Your Bankroll
Even with optimal play, variance can cause short-term losses. Effective bankroll management ensures you can ride out losing streaks and continue playing:
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Set session limits to avoid overspending.
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Use smaller bets to extend gameplay.
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Avoid chasing losses with impulsive increases in stake.
Take Advantage of Bonuses
Many UK online casinos offer free spins, deposit matches, or cashback. Using these promotions on video poker can effectively increase your RTP, as they provide extra value beyond standard game payouts. Always check wagering requirements and game contributions before applying bonuses.
Practice Makes Perfect
One of the advantages of video poker is its low learning curve for beginners and depth for advanced players. Practicing free versions of games allows you to:
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Learn optimal strategies without risking money.
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Understand hand probabilities.
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Develop faster decision-making for real-money play.
Pay Attention to Full Pay Machines
The term “full pay” refers to video poker machines that offer the best possible payouts for winning hands. Even small differences in pay tables can significantly impact RTP. For example, a full pay Jacks or Better machine typically has a 9/6 pay table, meaning nine coins for a full house and six coins for a flush. Choosing full pay machines ensures you’re playing at maximum theoretical return.
Final Thoughts
Improving your video poker RTP is not about luck—it’s about strategy, game selection, and disciplined play. By choosing high-RTP variants, mastering basic strategy, managing your bankroll, and taking advantage of casino bonuses, UK players can significantly increase their long-term returns.
Video poker rewards knowledge and patience. With the right approach, you can turn a simple casino game into a smart, profitable, and enjoyable experience.
