Progressive Video
Poker
Progressive video poker is when
the value of the jackpot on the machine increases by a set amount
every time the game is played. Usually, a number of gaming machines
or software networks are linked together so that more people
contribute to the pot and stand in line to win the jackpot. When the
royal flush is hit, the jackpot is won. In some cases, another hand
will win the jackpot and players should ensure that they are aware
of what jackpot they are playing for.
We take as an example one of the
more popular progressive video poker versions – 8/5 Jacks or Better.
Although the payout rate is the same on a progressive game as a
non-progressive one, players still have the added advantage of being
able to win the progressive jackpot if they hit the top payout. The
house edge on this version of video poker is 2.7% but the payout
percentage increases beyond 97.2% on the progressive machines. As
the jackpot increases in size, the payout percentage can even move
beyond 100%.
In a video poker game such as the
one above, it would take over 8500 coins to reach the break-even
point. Every coin over and beyond that will be to the player’s
advantage. The downside to video poker, of course is that casinos
will not break down the jackpot into coins on the progressive meter.
As such players will need to make the calculations by converting the
dollar amount into a coin amount see whether the break-even point
has been reached or not. Players need to be aware, too, of the
strategies pertaining to a particular video poker game if they want
to maintain their advantage in the game.
Some video poker machines may
offer payouts of 102%, for example. How do casinos make a profit on
positive expectation situations? Casinos have enough business-savvy
to know that they always maintain the house edge. As such, their
calculation with positive expectation video poker machines is that
the bulk of the jackpot has already been paid for by earlier players
and thus, they are able to offer advantage players the opportunity
of playing beyond the break-even point.
Unfortunately, it is common in
gambling circles for players to work in teams and monopolize the
positive expectation video poker machines. These teams will occupy
the machines just when the rates are in the player’s favor and play
until there is a win. Professional teams are also known to work
around the clock in shifts. As such, many casinos have adopted a
policy that forbids teamwork at the video poker machines. If players
are suspected of working in teams, they run the risk of being
removed from the casino and not being paid out.
Experts suggest that players
should go for the highest hand when aiming for the video poker
progressive jackpot. Even if they come up with a high pair, they
still need to break up the pair to go for the higher hand. Simply
put, if players have a pair, and then draw, they will not qualify
for the progressive jackpot. The reason being that to win the
biggest payout, players need to get a royal flush. Players need to
decide whether they are going after any payout or THE jackpot
payout. If they retain their pairs, they may receive a number of
payouts along the way, but they will never win the big jackpot
payout.
In the same vein, players are
advised to keep a section of their money to use towards progressive
play. This is because, the chances of winning the jackpot are lower
than regular – albeit smaller – payouts and players run the risk of
not being paid out at all if they only go after the jackpot.
Keeping a separate budget for progressive play and regular video
poker play will ensure that players have variety and still stand in
line to win some money.
Progressive video poker
machines add an exciting element to the game and are hugely popular
in the casino world – both online and off. Good knowledge of the
various strategies connected to the more popular versions of video
poker, along with a healthy dose of luck, can go a long way in
ensuring hours of fun and excellent return rates when playing this
game.
Article Sponsored by:

Caribbean Gold - A cool
Caribbean theme and laid back atmosphere let you kick back, relax
and enjoy the best in online gambling. Powered by the latest version
of OddsOn software features include:
- Over 60 games to choose from
- 25 loose slot machines
- Multi hand play on Blackjack and
Poker
- Progressive Blackjack
- Play up to three slot machines at
a time
- European Single Zero Roulette
- One on One customer care 24/7
- Gambling Online Magazine Editor's Pick Award
Winner
- Generous frequent player comps and
specials
Collect Your $150 Welcome Bonus Now
|