A Simpler Video Poker Strategy

14 October 2023

By Jerry Stickman

From William:

Dear Stickman,

I enjoy your articles about video poker, but I have a question. I play video poker quite often. I try to follow the proper video poker strategy, but it can get quite complex. I notice there are different types of strategies available from different websites. Some of them are classified as basic or simple and others as advanced.

I have difficulty remembering all the different holds that are in the longer versions of the strategy. My question to you is, why should I follow the detailed advanced form of video poker strategies. It is much easier for me to play the simpler strategy. What is wrong with that?

Thanks!

William

Hi William,

I can understand your frustration with trying to play perfect “advanced” strategy. There can be an overwhelming number of holds – too many in fact to memorize and play properly for the average video poker player.

The simplified, or basic, video poker strategy is designed for those who may not play all that often or for whatever reason do not want to take the time and effort to learn the complete strategy.

It is also designed as a stepping stone to more advanced playing strategies. A beginning player can learn the basic strategy and play it well more quickly and easily. By playing that strategy perfectly, the player gets confidence in their abilities with only a small loss of return.

Once the basic strategy is mastered, the player has the choice of continuing to play the basic strategy or learning a more advanced version that has a higher return.

For many players, the difference in return is not worth the added effort to learn and maintain proficiency in the more complex strategy. If play only once or twice a year and play a few hundred to a couple of thousand hands a year, the extra effort may not be worth the it.

You state that you play quite often. If that play amounts to tens of thousands of hands or more, learning the advanced strategies could well be worth the time and effort.

It is really your decision, William. Playing perfect advanced strategy will improve the return. If you are satisfied with the return from basic strategy and you are a disciplined player, all is well. Do what makes you happy.

As always, may all your wins be swift and large, and your losses be slow and small.

Jerry “Stickman”

Jerry “Stickman” is an expert in craps, blackjack and video poker and advantage slot machine play. He is a regular contributor to top gaming magazines. He authored the video poker section of "Everything Casino Poker: Get the Edge at Video Poker, Texas Hold'em, Omaha Hi-Lo, and Pai Gow Poker!" You can contact Jerry “Stickman” at stickmanjerryg@gmail.com
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