The simple strategy rules do still apply to the more advanced strategy, but there will be circumstances where it may be advantageous for players to break up high hands...
It is important for players to learn the strategies of video poker before they begin a game as these strategies may differ from other poker games. In this vein it's imperative to play smart, not hard!
Video poker is similar to other poker variations, but some of the rules and strategies are different. The most basic strategy is based on the rules of the game; what cards to hold and to discard in the first 5 cards that are dealt.
Players should always keep a full house, four of a kind, straight flush and royal flush. If the player holds a three of a kind, however, the other two cards in the hand should be discarded in an attempt to create a four of a kind or a full house. If the player holds 2 pairs, the other card should be discarded for a chance to get a full house. Players should break a straight when only one more card is needed for a royal flush, and break up a Jack pair in the same situation. Also note, players should keep a low pair over a high card and should not draw on a 4 card inside straight unless there are 3 or more high cards.
Advanced Video Poker Strategy
After learning the simple strategy, it is best to begin using a more advanced strategy. The simple strategy rules do still apply to the more advanced strategy, but there will be circumstances where it may be advantageous for players to break up high hands. At times, players will break a flush, pair of Jacks or a straight. As an example, let’s say the player holds an 8 of Diamonds/9 of Diamonds/10 of Diamonds/J of Diamonds/J of Spades. Right now, the player has a 4 card open straight flush of Diamonds as well as a Jack pair. In this case, the player should get rid of the J of Spades for a chance to get a straight flush. Because the player has an open straight, it is more likely that he or she will get a straight flush as the Q of Diamonds or the 7 of Diamonds could be used rather than a single card as in an inside straight. It is also possible that the player may get another Jack pair if the J of Hearts or J of Clubs is drawn.
Managing Your Money
There are two important factors to keep in mind when playing video poker with real money. The first is that players should never bet over their bankroll and if possible, they should play at a machine with a maximum bet that is within their limit. If a player wishes to put in $20 to play, they should not be playing at a $1 video poker machine that takes only $5 at a time. It is much better to play 5 quarters rather than $1 at a time. Video poker machines do payout a high percentage of money that is put into them, but the payouts are unpredictable. It is entirely within the realm of possibility to play 5 or 10 hands consecutively without receiving a payout. Players should always play at a level where they are able to ride out these dry streaks. Video poker gives players a lot of excitement and a better chance of winning against the house if they follow the basic rules and strategies.