Video poker is a game with a comparatively small house edge. In its best (and scarce) variations, the player can even get an advantage over the casino. Of course, this is only possible if you follow a basic strategy. But does it mean that you can win every time you gamble? Not.
Most video poker games have relatively high volatility. You should consider this parameter when you choose a game.
What Is Video Poker Volatility?
Volatility, or variance, is a deviation from the theoretical return to the player.
To some extent, you can call it luck. In other words, even if you play according to the optimal strategy, it does not mean you won't lose all your money or become the owner of a big win.
So, some types of video poker have higher volatility than others. It does not mean they are worse because the variance is not the same as the payout percentage. It's just that the probability of winning or losing large amounts is higher than in games with smaller variances.
Why Is Video Poker Variance Important?
Understanding volatility helps you win. No one can predict, for example, when the top winning combination will bring you a large payment. Nevertheless, considering this factor is essential to get the most out of the game.
Imagine that you have a small bankroll but want to play video poker a little longer.
- If you choose a game with high variance, you risk quickly leaving without money.
- On the other hand, long playing on the slot with low dispersion may seem tedious because frequent small payments make you feel like you're struggling on the ground.
Thus, video poker with low volatility is better for inexperienced players with a small bankroll, and varieties with high levels of variance will be more enjoyable for players who are well-versed in the game's nuances.
How to Choose Video Poker by Its Volatility
Of course, choosing video poker with the most suitable variance would be much easier if game producers provided the information on this parameter. Unfortunately, most of them do not offer this data.
Therefore it is necessary to estimate the variance by examining the paytable, RTP, and other characteristics.
For example, you might know Jacks or Better (house edge of about 99.5%) and Double Bonus (house edge of nearly 100%) by Microgaming. If you compare their paytables, you'll notice that the multipliers for the most valuable poker combinations are much higher in Double Bonus.
If you play these video pokers for some time, you will notice that poker combinations appear much more frequently in Jacks or Better. This means the volatility is lower than in Double Bonus, where payouts are significant but combinations are rare.
Of course, all these calculations are approximate, but they will help you select a type of video poker, more suitable for your playing style and bankroll.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding video poker volatility is not merely an academic exercise; it's a fundamental aspect of strategic play. Volatility, often misunderstood or overlooked, dictates the rhythm of your bankroll and the variance in your session outcomes. Whether you gravitate towards the high-risk, high-reward allure of games like Double Bonus or prefer the steadier grind of Jacks or Better, recognizing a game's inherent volatility allows you to align your strategy with your financial capacity and risk tolerance.
Explore pay tables, familiarize yourself with game variations, and critically assess the impact of jackpot sizes and bonus payouts to empower yourself to make informed decisions. This knowledge translates directly into more effective bankroll management, realistic expectations, and ultimately, a more enjoyable and sustainable video poker experience. Remember, while luck plays its part, a deep appreciation for volatility is a key variable you can control on your path to becoming a more skilled and successful video poker player.
