VeryWell Video Poker Variants Ranked

Video Poker is a cornerstone of any reputable online casino, and VeryWell casino offers a robust selection of variants. Unlike many games of chance, Video Poker combines the strategy of poker with the immediacy of slots, offering players a significant degree of influence over the outcome. This guide provides a practical, no-nonsense ranking of the most common Video Poker variants you’ll find, based on their rules, optimal strategy difficulty, and most importantly, their theoretical Return to Player (RTP) percentage when played with perfect strategy.

1. Understanding Video Poker Paytables and RTP

Before diving into the rankings, it’s crucial to understand that a game’s paytable dictates its RTP. A single variant, like Jacks or Better, can have multiple paytables with vastly different RTPs. The key differentiator is the payout for the Full House and Flush. A “9/6” game (paying 9 coins for a Full House and 6 for a Flush) is full-pay and offers the highest RTP, often 99.54%. A “8/5” game drops the RTP to around 97.30%. Always check the paytable before playing. This attention to detail is what separates casual play from informed action at VeryWell.

2. Top Tier: The Highest Paying Variants

These games offer the best potential return for skilled players and should be your primary focus if your goal is bankroll longevity.

• 9/6 Jacks or Better (RTP: 99.54%): The gold standard. The strategy is well-documented and easier to learn than more complex variants. This is the ideal starting point for any new Video Poker enthusiast.
• Deuces Wild (100.76% with optimal play): All twos are wild. The high RTP is achieved through a specific “full-pay” table where a natural royal flush pays higher. The strategy is more complex than Jacks or Better due to the wild cards.
• Bonus Poker Deluxe (99.64%): A simple variant that offers enhanced payouts for four-of-a-kind hands. Different four-of-a-kinds pay different amounts (e.g., four Aces pay more than four 4s).

3. Mid Tier: Solid Games with Slightly Lower Returns

These games are still excellent choices but require more strategic nuance to achieve a high RTP. They are common in lobbies, including at VeryWell.

4. Games to Generally Avoid Due to Low RTP

While fun, these variants typically have paytables that are heavily weighted towards the house, often with an RTP below 97%. They include games like “Aces and Faces” with poor paytables, any “6/5” Jacks or Better (RTP ~95%), and most “multi-strike” or “super times pay” side-bet features that significantly lower the base game’s return. Always verify the paytable before committing your funds.

5. Applying Your Knowledge at VeryWell

Now that you understand the rankings, how do you apply this? First, explore the game lobby and meticulously check the paytable for each variant within the “Info” or “Help” section. Look for the 9/6 Jacks or Better or full-pay Deuces Wild. Secondly, consider how a VeryWell bonus might apply. Most welcome bonuses or deposit matches have wagering requirements that are difficult to clear on Video Poker, as it often contributes only 10-20% towards rollover. A VeryWell no deposit offer or VeryWell free spins on slots might be a better way to test the platform before committing your own money to a high-strategy Video Poker game. If you do use a bonus, remember to check the terms for game weighting and maximum bet limits.

6. Getting Started and Practicing Strategy

The best way to learn is by using free-to-play versions of these games. Many websites offer practice tools. Memorize basic strategy charts for your chosen variant; these charts tell you exactly which cards to hold for any given deal. This transforms the game from a guessing activity into a calculated decision-making process. When you’re ready to play for real money, ensure your account verification documents (like a government-issued ID and a recent utility bill) are ready to upload to avoid delays in withdrawing your winnings. Using a clear strategy is the ultimate VeryWell promo code for success in Video Poker.