One of the hardest things to do when gambling, especially with video machines, is to stick to any given video poker strategy. The problem that arises is emotional, winning, losing, and trying to make sure that you keep your cool. Certain synapses fire in the brain that causes reactions beyond the control of the average player, and when either disappointment or elation rises, the decision making process becomes muddled. This is something that can be overcome, and it’s possible through constant practice and notation of a good strategy. Understanding the game is difficult, especially when you are used to playing poker in one arena and then turn it upside down to try your hand at video poker. Sticking to any given strategy starts with education. Educate yourself on what common games are featured in casino lobbies and you’ll start to recognize certain patterns, and in the long term, make serious money.

The Most Common Game

When sifting through the options at any given casino, you’ll most likely see a row of poker games that are video based, and they will most likely have a common gameplay feature. The feature you’re going to see most often is something referred to as “Jacks or Better”. This is not the average game you’re going to find while playing with your friends or at the high roller tables. This is not Texas Hold-em; so make sure you take that out of your mind. Jacks or better is a simplified version of the famous card game and casinos love to throw this at players, because it is easy to win, and far easier to lose. You will be issued five cards, if you have a pair of Jacks, you’re seeing money, and if you have a better combination, you’re seeing major money.

This simple game features heavy losses for most people. The reason being is a misunderstanding of how simple it really is. Most people assume that the machines are complicated, or that the casino is rigging them for you to lose, and that’s not true here. This game is as simple as it gets, and choosing the right cards to keep and which ones to give back for a second deal is the killer option that many can’t overcome. The easiest way to stick to a video poker strategy here is to only bank on Jacks, don’t chase higher if you have the pair. Basic scoring will allow you to win often, but be careful, the machine will tempt you to chase pairs, flushes, and more, but stick to your wits, Jacks or better only.

Breathe Easy, Don’t Get Drunk

The tempting thing to do at a casino is not just play games, but to smoke, drink, and have a good time. This is ok, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to do those things, but remember, you’re not playing a game, you’re in it to win. In order to stick to any strategy, even if you’re playing a common game like Jacks, you want to make sure you’re not inebriated. Don’t get drunk, don’t smoke too much, and make sure that you’re breathing deeply, and keeping your nerves and wits calm. You’ll have to practice ignoring outside stimuli, because you’re going to get hit with all sorts of noise, and it will lead you to select the wrong thing.

The last quick note to remember is simple. Make sure, under all circumstances, that you play each hand slowly. Take your time, and make sure you’re not swift to read or give back cards. Take your time; make educated choices, and this common game will pay out greatly.

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