What Should I Hold on Video Poker?

When it comes to playing video poker, one of the most important decisions you will make is what cards to hold. Holding the right cards can make the difference between winning and losing, so it’s crucial to understand which cards to keep and which ones to discard.

Here are some basic guidelines for deciding which cards to hold:

1. Always hold a winning hand: If you’re dealt a hand that already contains a winning combination (such as a pair of jacks or better), be sure to hold on to those cards. You don’t want to risk losing a sure thing by discarding one or more of your winning cards.

2. Hold high-value cards: If you have high-value cards (such as an ace, king, queen, or jack) that don’t make up a winning combination, it’s usually a good idea to hang on to them. These cards can help you form winning combinations later on in the game.

3. Keep suited cards: If you have two or more cards that are suited (i.e., they are all of the same suit), it’s often worth holding on to them. This increases your chances of forming a flush or straight flush.

4. Discard low-value pairs: If you have a pair of low-value cards (such as twos or threes), it’s usually best to discard them and try for a higher-value combination.

5. Don’t hold on to kickers: In some video poker games, certain hands require “kickers” (extra non-pair cards) in order to win. However, in most cases, keeping kickers is not necessary and can actually decrease your chances of forming a winning hand.

It’s also important to consider the specific rules of the video poker game you’re playing when deciding which cards to hold. For example, in some games, certain combinations (like four-of-a-kind) pay out more than they do in others.

PRO TIP:When playing video poker, it is important to know what cards you should hold and which ones you should discard. Generally, hold any cards that form a pair or higher (three of a kind or better). It is also wise to hold any cards that can form a straight or flush, as well as four cards of the same suit. Finally, if you have four cards to a royal flush, it is usually best to hold all five.

In addition to these guidelines, there are also more advanced strategies for deciding which cards to hold based on the specific cards in your hand and the payouts for different combinations. These strategies involve complex calculations and are typically used by experienced players.

Overall, the key to making smart decisions about which cards to hold in video poker is to understand the basic principles of the game and to pay attention to the specific rules and payouts of the game you’re playing. By following these guidelines and strategies, you’ll be well on your way to maximizing your chances of winning big at video poker!