Video poker is a popular casino game that combines the elements of luck and skill. It requires a player to make decisions based on the cards they are dealt, and it offers various payouts depending on the hand’s strength.
One of the most common questions people ask when they start playing video poker is “How big a bankroll do I need for video poker?” In this article, we’ll dive deep into this topic and provide you with all the information you need to know about bankroll management in video poker.
What is Bankroll Management?
Bankroll management refers to the process of managing one’s gambling funds to ensure that they can play for an extended period without going broke. This process involves setting aside a specific amount of money for gambling purposes and dividing it into smaller portions called units. Players then use these units to place bets on video poker machines.
Factors Affecting Bankroll Requirements
The amount of money required for video poker bankroll management depends on several factors, such as:
- The type of video poker machine being played
- The denomination being played
- The expected return percentage (ER%) of the machine being played
- The player’s skill level
- The length of time spent playing
Type of Video Poker Machine Being Played
Different types of video poker machines have different paytables, which means that each machine has different payouts for different hands. For example, Jacks or Better machines pay out differently from Deuces Wild machines.
The payout percentage (or “payback”) varies depending on the type of machine being played. Therefore, players should choose a machine that offers good payback percentages.
Denomination Being Played
The denomination being played refers to the value of each credit wagered on a particular machine. The higher denomination machines require larger bets per hand, and the payouts are generally higher. Therefore, players who want to play for extended periods should choose machines with lower denominations.
Expected Return Percentage (ER%)
The expected return percentage (ER%) of a video poker machine refers to the amount of money expected to be returned to the player over an extended period. This percentage varies depending on the type of machine being played and the player’s skill level. Machines with higher ER% typically require a larger bankroll as they provide better payouts.
Player’s Skill Level
A player’s skill level is an essential factor in determining how much bankroll they need for video poker. Skilled players can make better decisions, which means they can maximize their chances of winning. Players who are new to video poker may require a larger bankroll as they learn the ins and outs of the game.
Length of Time Spent Playing
The length of time spent playing is another crucial factor in determining how much bankroll is required for video poker. The longer a player spends playing, the more bets they will make, and the more money they will require. Therefore, players who plan on playing for several hours should set aside a larger bankroll.
Bankroll Requirements
The amount of money required for video poker bankroll management varies depending on the factors mentioned above. However, as a general rule, players should set aside at least 200 units per hour of playtime. For example, if a player plans on playing for five hours, they should set aside at least 1000 units.
It is important to note that this amount is just an estimate and may vary depending on different factors such as the ones mentioned above. Players should also ensure that their bankrolls are within their budget limits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, managing your video poker bankroll is an essential part of gambling responsibly while enjoying the game. Understanding the factors that affect your bankroll requirements will help you make informed decisions on how much money to set aside for gambling purposes.
Remember always to gamble responsibly and ensure that your bankroll is within your budget limits. Happy playing!
