Video Poker Glossary

The percentage of all wagered money that a video poker machine returns to players over an extended period. For example, a game with 99.5% RTP returns $99.50 for every $100 wagered over thousands of hands. Higher RTP percentages indicate better player value. Understanding RTP is fundamental to selecting machines that provide the best mathematical advantage.

The displayed schedule showing the payout amount for each possible winning hand combination. Pay tables vary between machines and directly influence RTP calculations. A "loose" pay table offers higher payouts for strong hands like Royal Flushes and Straight Flushes. Comparing pay tables is crucial for optimal play selection, as identical games can have significantly different returns based on their payout structures.

The decision-making process where players select which cards to keep (hold) and which to replace (discard) from their initial five-card hand. Optimal hold/discard decisions are based on mathematical probability and expected value calculations. Strategy charts provide the precise ranking of hand combinations to maximize long-term returns.

The highest-ranking hand in video poker, consisting of Ace, King, Queen, Jack, and 10 of the same suit. Royal Flushes typically offer the largest payout on any machine, often 800 coins for a 5-coin bet. The probability of receiving a Royal Flush on the initial deal is approximately 1 in 649,740 hands, making it the rarest natural hand.

A mathematical calculation representing the average amount a player can expect to win or lose per hand over the long term. Optimal play strategy selects the hold/discard option with the highest expected value. For instance, holding a flush draw might have a higher expected value than holding a single high card, depending on the specific situation and pay table structure.

The mathematical advantage the casino maintains over players in the long run. It's calculated as 100% minus the RTP percentage. For example, a game with 99% RTP has a 1% house edge. Understanding that all casino games favor the house mathematically is essential for responsible gaming and proper bankroll management.

A ranked list of hand combinations indicating the priority order for which hands to hold. Charts are customized for each pay table variant. Following the correct strategy chart eliminates guesswork and ensures every decision maximizes expected value. Professional players memorize charts to execute optimal play consistently.

The fluctuation in results around the expected value due to random chance. High variance games experience larger swings between winning and losing periods. Low variance games show more consistent results. Understanding variance helps players set realistic expectations and maintain appropriate bankrolls during inevitable losing streaks.

An unpaired card held alongside a pair or three of a kind. For example, holding a pair of Kings with an Ace kicker provides the potential for two pair or three of a kind. Strategy decisions often involve choosing between different kickers when holding pairs, as higher kickers marginally improve winning probabilities.

A hand containing four cards of identical rank, such as four Sevens. This is a strong hand ranking above Straight and Flush, but below Straight Flush and Royal Flush. The payout for quads depends on the card rank and machine's pay table, with higher-ranking quads sometimes paying bonus amounts.

A four-card straight combination missing one card in the middle. For example, 3-4-6-7 needs a 5 to complete. This has one way to complete compared to four ways for an outside straight. Strategy charts typically rank inside straight draws lower than outside straight draws due to lower completion probability.

The practice of allocating funds specifically for gambling and setting loss limits before playing. Proper bankroll management ensures that losing sessions don't cause financial hardship. A typical recommendation is having a bankroll at least 300-500 times your bet size to weather variance without depleting funds during downswings.