Online Video Poker: Variants, Odds, and Sites to Play

Video poker is one of those rare games that sits between chance and strategy. Unlike slots, where outcomes are entirely random, or blackjack, which relies on constant decision-making, video poker allows players to influence results with a blend of math, odds, and strategy. In 2025, the game remains one of the most enduring fixtures in both land-based and online casinos across the U.S. and UK.

From Game King Video Poker machines in Las Vegas to Ultimate X Poker apps available in New Jersey, video poker continues to evolve. Modern versions now include multi-hand play, progressive jackpots, and mobile-optimized designs that make it easy to enjoy on a smartphone.

What Is Video Poker?

At its simplest, video poker is a digital version of five-card draw poker. Players are dealt five cards, choose which to hold and which to discard, and receive replacements. Payouts depend on the strength of the final hand, with paytables clearly displayed on screen.

Unlike table poker, you’re not competing against other players—the goal is to beat the machine’s paytable. This transparency makes video poker attractive: you always know the odds of a royal flush or a full house.

Popular Video Poker Variants in 2025

The screenshot you provided includes several of the most recognizable variants in online casinos. Here’s how they stack up:

Game King Video Poker

Developed by IGT, Game King is the gold standard in both land-based and online video poker. RTP can reach over 99% depending on the game variation (such as Jacks or Better or Bonus Poker). Available at BetRivers and Hard Rock Bet in the U.S., and Bet365 Casino in the UK, Game King offers players multiple game options in a single package. Its longevity comes from its straightforward paytables and trusted brand recognition.

Game King Jackpot Progressive

This variant adds a progressive jackpot element. RTP is slightly lower (around 97–98%) due to the jackpot contribution, but the trade-off is the potential for life-changing payouts. On mobile apps, the progressive meter updates in real time, creating the same suspense as slot jackpots.

Ultimate X Poker (Triple Play, Ten Play, Five Play)

Ultimate X is one of the most exciting modern video poker formats. Developed by IGT, it introduces multipliers on winning hands, which carry over to subsequent draws. RTP ranges from 97–99% depending on paytable and play decisions. Multi-hand formats like Triple Play, Ten Play, and Five Play allow players to manage multiple hands at once, creating faster-paced sessions. Found at BetMGM NJ and BetRivers MI, it’s one of the most popular U.S. variants.

Triple Play Draw Poker

RTP: around 98%. Players handle three hands simultaneously, with held cards copied across all three. This increases variance but creates bigger excitement. Triple Play is ideal for experienced players who want more action than single-hand formats.

Five Play Draw Poker

Similar to Triple Play, but with five hands in play. RTP sits in the 97–98% range. On mobile, it fits neatly into portrait mode with clear card displays, making it a great balance between excitement and usability.

Multi-Rise Video Poker

A newer release, Multi-Rise adds progressive multipliers as players build winning streaks. RTP is usually 96–97%. Its appeal lies in giving video poker more of a slot-like momentum, with bigger wins available for consecutive strong hands.

RTP, Odds, and Paytables

The attraction of video poker lies in its transparency. Unlike roulette or slots, players can analyze paytables and choose machines with the best long-term returns.

• Jacks or Better (Full Pay 9/6) – RTP up to 99.54% with perfect strategy.
• Bonus Poker – Slightly lower RTP (around 99.17%) but bigger payouts for four-of-a-kind.
• Deuces Wild – High variance, RTP up to 100.76% in rare full-pay versions.
• Double Double Bonus Poker – Higher volatility, with jackpots on four aces and kickers.

Payouts (Jacks or Better, 9/6 full pay)

How to Play Video Poker Online

1. Choose a variant: Select Jacks or Better, Bonus Poker, Ultimate X, etc.
2. Set your bet: Most games allow $0.10 to $10 per hand, with maximum bets unlocking royal flush jackpots.
3. Deal: Receive five cards.
4. Hold/Discard: Decide which cards to keep, based on strategy.
5. Draw: Replace discarded cards, aiming for the highest possible hand.
6. Collect winnings: Paid instantly based on the paytable.

Strategy in Video Poker

Unlike slots, strategy matters in video poker. Using proper hand selection increases RTP dramatically.

• Basic Jacks or Better tip: Always hold a high pair (Jacks or better), but discard lower pairs unless they’re part of a stronger draw.
• Chasing a Royal: Hold suited 10-J-Q-K, even discarding a made pair. The royal’s payout justifies the risk.
• Deuces Wild: Treat deuces as wilds, always keeping them. Strategy is more complex, but can result in 100%+ RTP on full-pay machines.

Fun fact: The first video poker strategy books were written in the late 1970s, after the Game King predecessors were released in Las Vegas casinos. Players quickly realized the edge could be reduced to less than 0.5% with proper play.

A player at Borgata NJ hit a $20,000 royal flush in 2023 on a Game King machine, betting the maximum $5 per hand. In Las Vegas, several million-dollar progressive jackpots have been won on multi-hand Ultimate X Poker machines, proving the real potential of the game when luck meets strategy.

Picking the Right Video Poker Game

Choosing the right variant depends on your play style:

• Low volatility: Jacks or Better is best.
• Chasing jackpots: Progressive and Ultimate X Poker variants add excitement.
• Skill-focused: Deuces Wild rewards expert strategy.
• Casual play: Bonus Poker offers fun variety with balanced returns.

Video Poker vs. Blackjack and Roulette

Blackjack involves live dealer interaction, while video poker is solitary and faster. Roulette has no strategy beyond bankroll management. Video poker lets players reduce house edge with correct decisions, making it more appealing for analytical gamblers.

Always check the paytable before playing. A 9/6 Jacks or Better machine has a 99.54% RTP, while an 8/5 version drops to 97.3%. Over time, that difference matters. Never assume two machines are identical.

FAQs About Online Video Poker

1. What is the best video poker game to play?
Jacks or Better (9/6 full pay) offers the highest RTP for beginners.

2. Can I play video poker online in the U.S.?
Yes, in states like NJ, PA, MI, and WV via licensed casinos like BetMGM and BetRivers.

3. What about the UK?
Bet365 Casino and Virgin Games offer Game King and Bonus Poker.

4. Is video poker skill or luck?
It’s both. Strategy influences outcomes, but final draws remain luck-based.

5. What is the RTP of video poker?
Between 97% and 100% depending on the variant and paytable.

6. Can I use strategy charts?
Yes. Strategy charts are widely available and legal to use.

7. Do progressives lower RTP?
Yes, but they add jackpot potential.

8. Is mobile video poker different?
No—the paytables are the same, though mobile versions use tap controls.

9. Can I try video poker for free?
Yes, demo versions are available at UK and U.S. online casinos.

10. Is video poker better than slots?
For strategy players, yes—video poker offers transparency and better RTP. Slots appeal more to players seeking themes and jackpots.