There
are a number of myths that have become prevalent
since video poker was first introduced about 25
years ago. Many people have come up with theories
about the game, and these have been passed off
as truths to other players. Here is a rundown
of some of the most common myths, along with an
explanation of each that will help you to obtain
a better understanding of how video poker really
works.
Myth #1: Play Only 9-6 Machines
This myth is based in fact, but does not always
apply. In the case of Draw Poker machines that
pay on jacks or better and 2 for 1 on 2 pairs,
this advice is accurate. However, this still only
applies if the machine is a full-pay version.
There are now many different varieties of video
poker machines that have become popular. These
machines have different payouts. On the double
bonus machines with reduced payout on 2 pairs,
look for the 10-7 version.
Remember that as new strategies develop, casinos
often purchase newer machines that are designed
to make the casino more money if the popular strategy
is used. Keep yourself educated about the type
of machines that are being used at your casino.
Myth #2: Dollar Machines Pay More
This is usually not true for video poker. However,
it often does apply to reel-slots. In video poker,
the same microprocessors are used regardless of
the amount it costs to play. Of course, if you
play at a machine that costs more to play, the
payout will be higher if you do win. But you will
also lose more if you don’t win.
Myth #3: Play Where the Locals Play
It is said that when you are in Las Vegas, you
should frequent the same casinos that the locals
go to, rather than the large casinos on the strip.
This is not always a good strategy.
First of all, these casinos often offer plenty
of clinkers as well. They usually push the machines
that don’t pay well. And the machines that
do pay well are usually already taken by the locals,
who often play two or three machines at a time.
On the other hand, the casinos on the strip are
in direct competition, so they have reason to
offer just as good an experience for players as
the smaller casinos. For this reason, you are
just as likely to find good machines at a larger
casino as you are at the smaller ones.
Myth #4: Play Maximum Coins
If you are not experienced enough to know the
best strategy for the machine you are playing,
the best bet is to play just one coin per machine.
If you are going to play more than one coin, then
you should try to play five coins on each machine.
Myth #5: Video Poker is Easy
Most of the people who say this are amateur players
who don’t realize how many mistakes they
are making. If you are serious about winning at
video poker, you should take some time to study
the game. You can purchase books, tapes and videos
to help you learn before going to the casino.
You can even get software that will allow you
to play at home on your computer for practice.
Myth #6: Video Poker Games are Regulated
This is true in most areas. However, be cautious
when playing at foreign casinos or aboard shipboard
casinos. Some casinos run by Native Americans
also have unfair games. If the machines that are
being used in the casino were made in another
country, they may not have been manufactured according
to the same standards that are adhered to in the
United States.
Also, games that offer bonuses as gimmicks can
cause confusion among players and should be avoided.
Myth #7: It’s All Luck
This is what players like to tell themselves when
they love to play but can’t seem to get
good enough to win. Yes, there is luck involved,
but the game requires skill as well. If you make
the right plays, you will be able to stay on the
machine longer, which will increase your chance
of hitting the jackpot. |
