by Matt Bourie
In this article, we will look at Triple Double Bonus video poker pay tables nd explore their role in controlling the payback percentage of video poker machines. But, first, let’s cover the basics.
What is a Video Poker Pay Table?
A video poker pay table is a chart that outlines the payouts for various winning hands. Each pay table varies depending on the video poker variant and specific machine settings. The pay table lists different poker hands, from pairs and two pairs to royal flushes, and the corresponding payouts for each hand based on the number of coins wagered.
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.
How Pay Tables Affect Payback Percentages
The payback percentage of a video poker game is the long-term theoretical return to the player, expressed as a percentage. For example, a game with a 99% payback percentage will theoretically return $99 for every $100 wagered over the long run. Pay tables directly impact these percentages by determining the payouts for winning hands.
What is Triple Double Bonus Video Poker?
The key difference in Triple Double Bonus Video Poker compared to other video poker games is the pay table – it offers enhanced payouts for certain strong poker hands, specifically:
- Four Aces with a kicker (the next highest card) pays out at triple the normal rate
- Four 2s, 3s or 4s with a kicker pays out at double the normal rate
- Four other card combinations (e.g. four 5s through Kings) with a kicker pay an enhanced bonus rate
This makes hands like four-of-a-kind more valuable than in standard video poker games. The payouts for the other hands like a Flush, Full House, etc. are about the same as regular video poker.
The ability to hit these enhanced, multi-multiplied payouts for strong hands is what gives Triple Double Bonus its name and makes it more volatile but potentially more lucrative for skilled players compared to other video poker variants.
Let’s explore five distinct Triple Double Bonus pay tables, each offering its own unique payout ratios and influencing the overall payback percentage:
Triple Double Bonus Video Poker Pay Table Theoretical Paybacks
Triple Double Bonus 9/7 (99.578%)
Triple Double Bonus 9/6 (98.154%)
Triple Double Bonus 9/5 (97.020%)
Triple Double Bonus 8/5 (95.969%)
Triple Double Bonus 7/5 (94.918%)
Triple Double Bonus 9/7 (99.578%)
This pay table offers 9 coins for a full house and 7 coins for a flush. Payback Percentage: 99.578%
Analysis: This is the highest-paying version of Triple Double Bonus Poker. With a nearly 99.6% payback, it offers the best return to the player, making it the most favorable option if you’re looking to maximize your winnings.
Triple Double Bonus 9/6 (98.154%)
This pay table offers 9 coins for a full house and 6 coins for a flush. Payback Percentage: 98.154%
Analysis: Dropping the payout for a flush by one coin decreases the payback percentage by over 1%. While still favorable, it’s not as generous as the 9/7 version.
Triple Double Bonus 9/5 (97.020%)
This pay table offers 9 coins for a full house and 5 coins for a flush. Payback Percentage: 97.020%
Analysis: A further reduction in the payout for a flush results in a noticeable drop in the payback percentage. This version is less attractive for players looking for higher returns.
Triple Double Bonus 8/5 (95.969%)
This pay table offers 8 coins for a full house and 5 coins for a flush. Payback Percentage: 95.969%
Analysis: Both the full house and flush payouts are reduced, significantly impacting the payback percentage. This version is less favorable compared to the above higher payout tables.
Triple Double Bonus 7/5 (94.918%)
This pay table offers 7 coins for a full house and 5 coins for a flush. Payback Percentage: 94.918%
Analysis: This is the lowest-paying version among the ones compared here. With a payback percentage of just under 95%, it offers the least favorable return to players.
Understanding Strategy Adjustments
To maximize your returns, it’s essential to adapt your strategy based on the pay table. Here are some tips for optimizing your play:
1. **Choose the Best Pay Table:** Always look for machines with the highest payback percentages. In our comparison, the 9/7 pay table offers the best return.
2. **Maximize Coin Bet:** Most video poker games, including Triple Double Bonus, offer a bonus for hitting a royal flush with the maximum number of coins bet. Always bet the maximum coins to take advantage of this.
3. **Adjust Strategy Accordingly:** Different pay tables might require slight adjustments in strategy. For instance, in lower pay tables, you might need to be more conservative with your holds and draws.
When playing any video game it is always a good idea to use video poker strategy charts to help guide you to making the mathematically correct plays. To see a list of strategy charts for different video poker games, go to: https://thejackpotgents.com/video-poker-strategy-charts/
Conclusion
Understanding video poker pay tables and their impact on payback percentages is crucial for any player looking to improve their chances of winning. By comparing the different pay tables for Triple Double Bonus Poker, it becomes clear that selecting the right machine can significantly influence your returns.
Always opt for the highest-paying pay table available, maximize your coin bets, and adjust your strategy to align with the specific pay table you are playing. Mastering these elements will enhance your video poker experience and increase your potential for success.
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.
