How it began:
The advent of the first Personal Computers, in the mid 1970s, made it possible to combine a TV monitor, and a processing unit. Casino operators quickly latched on to this concept and produced software programmes, (Primitive by today’s standards) which would provide the basis for a whole series of slots, and video games. They were presented to an enthusiastic, and world-wide, potential customer base, eager to absorb, and explore, the many faceted, and exciting new possibilities, that the new age technology, could bring to their lives.

Similarities:
At first glance, a newcomer to the online casino could easily be confused into thinking that video poker, and slots were one, and the same thing. There are of course many similarities between the two forms of poker, and the inspiration for both versions, springs from the traditional table poker, as played in the land based casinos around the world.
The similarities occur, where you find that the software manufacturers are the providers of both products, and the graphics consequently will be similar or even identical to each other. The hardware in both cases resembles the bog standard slot machines, to be found in all the world’s casinos. Video poker however, unlike slots, is not played by spinning reels, and therefore cannot be described as a slot game. Slots and video poker, both offer opportunities, to play for highly rewarding, progressive jackpots.

The Difference:
The essential difference between slots, and video poker, is that with the video game, the player is given the opportunity to make decisions, which can affect the outcome of a hand, increase the chances of winning, and allows the player to develop winning strategies of his own. Slot machines offer no decision making facilities, therefore no strategies can be applied, and they simply generate random numbers to produce a predetermined percentage payback. Online slots payback, is usually higher than its land based equivalent; video poker, generally, returns a higher percentage than slots. It is even possible, for the expert strategist, video poker player, to tip the house edge, to his own advantage.

Playing Video Poker:
To get the best out of video poker, players must be prepared to spend a little time learning, and practicing, their skills and strategies. To do this, it is important at outset, to choose a reputable online casino, with a facility for free plays, (where you can practice) and, a video poker school, where you can learn the rules of the game, develop your strategies, and have fun building up your confidence on free play. A site you may find useful to help with strategies and winning ploys, can be found at: wizardofodds.com/videopoker there are many “e” books written on the subject, so all the information you require, to enable you to become a video poker winner, is easily available. A little time spent in preparation, developing your strategies, and building your confidence, improves your chances of being a winner, and gives you and your bankroll a longer time at the game. If you are not prepared to do a little home work, in preparation to play online video poker, then I suggest that you stick to the slots. Whatever you decide to do, may Lady Luck remain at your elbow.