by Matt Bourie
The Strategy Behind Video Poker Pay Tables
In the world of casino games, video poker stands out for its blend of skill and chance. Unlike slot machines, which are purely luck-based, video poker requires players to make decisions that significantly impact the outcome. Central to these decisions are the pay tables, which dictate the payouts for various hands. Understanding pay tables is crucial for any serious video poker player, as they directly influence the game’s strategy and potential profitability.
A pay table lists the payouts for each possible hand in a video poker game, from a simple pair to a royal flush. These payouts vary between different versions of the game and even among machines of the same game type.
The key is that the pay table not only determines the potential rewards but also affects the game’s overall return-to-player (RTP) percentage. Higher payout rates for common hands can make a game more attractive and potentially more lucrative over time.
Components of a Video Poker Pay Table
An 8-5 bonus poker pay table
A standard video poker pay table includes:
1. **Hand Rankings:** This column lists different poker hands, arranged hierarchically from the lowest-ranking hands (like a pair of jacks) to the highest-ranking hands (such as a royal flush).
2. **Coin Bet Columns:** These columns display the payouts for each hand based on the number of coins bet. Typically, video poker pay tables show payouts for bets ranging from one to five coins.
3. **Payout Values:** The actual numbers in the table represent the payout amounts for each hand, multiplied by the number of coins wagered.
What is Deuces Wild Bonus Video Poker?
Deuces Wild Bonus Video Poker adds an exciting twist to the traditional game by making all twos (deuces) wild cards. This means that deuces can substitute for any other card, greatly increasing the chances of forming a winning hand. The game also includes special bonus payouts for certain hands, adding another layer of strategy and excitement.
Understanding the differences among various Deuces Wild Bonus pay tables is essential for maximizing your winnings. Here are the specifics of five different pay tables and their impact on gameplay:
Deuces Wild Bonus Video Poker Pay Table Theoretical Paybacks
Deuces Wild Bonus 9/4/4/3 (99.450%)
Deuces Wild Bonus 13/4/3/3 (98.803%)
Deuces Wild Bonus 10/4/3/3 (97.364%)
Deuces Wild Bonus 12/4/3/2 (96.218%)
Deuces Wild Bonus 10/4/3/2 (95.337%)
Deuces Wild Bonus 9/4/4/3 (99.450% RTP)
This pay table is one of the most favorable for players, offering a 99.450% return-to-player (RTP) percentage. The 9/4/4/3 refers to the payout for full houses, flushes, and straights, respectively. With a relatively high payout for these hands, this version of the game offers excellent chances for consistent wins. Players can enjoy significant returns on common hands, making it a preferred choice for those looking to maximize their long-term profits.
Deuces Wild Bonus 13/4/3/3 (98.803% RTP)
In this version, the full house payout is increased to 13, but the overall RTP drops slightly to 98.803%. The higher payout for full houses can lead to larger individual wins, but the reduced RTP indicates that the frequency of such wins might be lower. This pay table appeals to players who prefer the potential for higher payouts on specific hands, even if it means a slight decrease in the overall return.
Deuces Wild Bonus 10/4/3/3 (97.364% RTP)
With a 97.364% RTP, this pay table offers a balance between the payouts for full houses and the overall return. The payout for full houses is slightly higher than some other versions, but not as high as the 13/4/3/3 version. This middle-ground option provides moderate returns and is suitable for players who want a stable game without extreme variance.
Deuces Wild Bonus 12/4/3/2 (96.218% RTP)
The 12/4/3/2 pay table decreases the payout for flushes and straights, resulting in a lower RTP of 96.218%. While the full house payout is relatively high, the reduced payouts for other hands make this version less favorable overall. Players might experience more significant swings in their bankroll, with fewer frequent wins to sustain their play. This version is suited for those who enjoy the challenge and are willing to take on more risk for the chance of hitting big wins.
Deuces Wild Bonus 10/4/3/2 (95.337% RTP)
The 10/4/3/2 pay table is the least favorable among the five, with a 95.337% RTP. The lower payouts for common hands like flushes and straights, combined with a reduced full house payout, make this version less appealing for serious players. The lower RTP means that the house edge is higher, reducing the long-term profitability of the game. This version is typically chosen by casual players who are not as concerned with maximizing their returns.
Choosing the Right Pay Table in Deuces Wild Bonus
Selecting the best pay table depends on your playing style and goals. If you’re looking for consistent wins and higher returns, the 9/4/4/3 pay table with a 99.450% RTP is the optimal choice. For those who prefer the potential for larger individual payouts, the 13/4/3/3 version offers a compelling alternative. Understanding the nuances of each pay table allows you to tailor your strategy and enhance your gaming experience.
Always remember that the pay table is a critical element in Deuces Wild Bonus Video Poker. By studying the different pay tables and their RTPs, players can make informed decisions that maximize their chances of winning. Whether you prefer steady returns or the thrill of higher payouts, there’s a pay table to suit your style, making the game both challenging and rewarding.
Once you choose the pay table that aligns with your objectives, the next crucial step is to use video poker strategy charts to guide your decisions on how to play each hand properly.
The Role of Strategy Charts
Strategy charts are essential tools that provide guidance on the optimal play for every possible hand based on the pay table you are using. These charts take into account the probabilities of forming various hands and the corresponding payouts, allowing you to make the most informed decisions. By following a strategy chart, you can significantly increase your chances of maximizing your returns and minimizing losses.
We have strategy charts on this website for all of the most popular video games and you can see them, here: https://thejackpotgents.com/video-poker-strategy-charts/
Matt Bourie is the editor of the American Casino Guide book https://www.americancasinoguidebook.com/ He also co-hosts The Jackpot Gents YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@TheJackpotGents where he, and his father, Steve Bourie, release a video each day documenting their video poker play in a real casino. They also have a website at https://thejackpotgents.com/ where they provide an extensive collection of FREE articles and videos about how to be a better video poker player.
