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How to Play Video Poker online

Last updated: 21.11.2025
Emily Thompson
Published by:Emily Thompson
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One of the main virtues of video poker is how dynamic it can be. While the game has simple rules and moves quickly, it also requires the player to do more than just press buttons and wait for the result.

What do we mean by that? Well, we are just saying you will have to use your brain if you want to truly enjoy what video poker has to offer. It involves understanding what are the best odds you have after seeing the first cards, then deciding which ones you will keep.

The truth is that video poker can be fun and challenging at the same time. That's why we bring you a quick guide to enjoy each round of this game to the fullest: with fun and, who knows, some nice profit in your pocket.

Video Poker Rules: How Rwandan Players Can Master the Game

The general rules of video poker are quite easy to learn. The way the game works may vary slightly depending on the variation of video poker you choose. However, the main aspects remain the same. So, you will not have so much of a problem adapting from one variation to another.

Unlike other poker games, this is a solitary game. Only you will receive cards. Instead of comparing your hand with other players or with a casino dealer, the goal here is to form a combination that pays out according to the game's paytable.

Here's how it works:

  1. You must first select a value for your bet.
  2. Next, click on DEAL to reveal the five initial cards.
  3. Analyze the cards, choose which ones you want to keep, and click on HOLD.
  4. Then, click on DRAW to receive new cards in place of the ones you discarded.
  5. If you get a valid combination, you will automatically receive a prize according to the paytable.

Some steps may vary depending on the version you are playing. In some games, you can activate the auto-hold feature to automatically choose which cards to keep in your hand, for example.

In any case, keep in mind that the cards are dealt randomly, similar to online slot machines. You can try to adopt strategies to win at video poker, but you cannot predict which cards the game will draw for you.

Understanding Video Poker Hands for Rwandan Players

Players familiar with other poker variants will quickly recognize the possible card combinations in video poker. After all, they include the most popular and desirable options, such as Royal Flush, Full House, or Two Pairs.

Depending on the video poker variation you are playing, some combinations will be possible and others will not. Therefore, it is important to check the paytable displayed on the screen before you start playing.

The payouts for each combination obtained are calculated according to the odds of getting them. In other words, the harder it is to get a winning hand, the higher the prize you will receive. The paytable may vary slightly in each game, but generally follows a similar structure.

Below, we list the most common hand rankings and payouts in the main variations of video poker for Rwandan players.

Jacks or Better

In this version of video poker, the main feature is the possibility of winning with a simple pair of Jacks, Queens, Kings, or Aces. Typically, when you get a Jacks or Better combination, the payout is equal to the amount of the bet you placed.

  • Royal Flush: 1 to 250
  • Straight Flush: 1 to 50
  • Four of a Kind: 1 to 25
  • Full House: 1 to 9
  • Flush: 1 to 6
  • Straight: 1 to 4
  • Three of a Kind: 1 to 3
  • Two Pairs: 1 to 2
  • Jacks or Better: 1 to 1

Deuces Wild for Rwandan Players

In this exciting version of video poker, the standout feature for players in Rwanda is the presence of wild cards. All cards with a value of 2 (the deuces) can be used to substitute for any other card, significantly boosting your chances of forming winning hands.

Naturally, this wild card element dramatically alters the payout structure compared to standard video poker. It also requires a bit more strategic thinking when deciding which cards to keep in your hand and which to discard, a skill that seasoned Rwandan players will appreciate.

  • Natural Royal Flush: 1 to 800
  • Four Deuces: 1 to 200
  • Wild Royal Flush: 1 to 25
  • Five of a Kind: 1 to 15
  • Straight Flush: 1 to 10
  • Four of a Kind: 1 to 4
  • Full House: 1 to 4
  • Flush: 1 to 3
  • Straight: 1 to 2
  • Three of a Kind: 1 to 1

FAQ

How do I play Video Poker?

To start, find a reputable online casino in Rwanda that offers video poker. Deposit funds into your account and select a video poker game variant, such as Jacks or Better. Once the game loads, choose your bet amount and click "Deal." Examine your initial hand and decide which cards to hold and which to discard. The game will then replace the discarded cards. If your final hand matches a winning combination, you'll receive a payout.

What hands win in Video Poker?

Winning hands in video poker depend on the specific game version. Common winning hands include a Royal Flush, Full House, Four of a Kind, and Two Pairs. In Jacks or Better, a pair of Jacks or higher (Queens, Kings, or Aces) is enough to win. Deuces Wild uses 2s as wild cards, which can help you create winning combinations more easily.

What are the basic rules of Video Poker?

Video poker is played with a standard 52-card deck. You start by placing a bet. The size of your bet affects the potential payout. You're then dealt five cards. You choose which cards to hold and which to discard. The discarded cards are replaced, and your final hand determines whether you win and the amount of your payout, based on the game's paytable.

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