Expected Value (EV)
Expected value is the average result of a decision over thousands of repetitions. In video poker, each hold decision has a specific EV. Optimal play strategies rank all possible decisions by their expected values, ensuring you always choose the hold that maximizes your long-term returns. Even small EV differences compound significantly over time.
Variance and Volatility
Variance measures the fluctuation in short-term results. Video poker machines with higher pay table volatility can produce greater swings in your bankroll, despite maintaining identical long-term return percentages. Understanding variance helps players select machines that match their bankroll size and comfort level with short-term fluctuations.
Strategy Charts
Strategy charts provide ranked lists of hand rankings for specific pay tables. These charts tell you exactly which cards to hold in every possible situation. Following a proper strategy chart for your specific machine is essential for achieving the theoretical RTP percentage. Deviating from optimal play increases the house edge significantly.
Royal Flush
The most valuable hand in video poker, consisting of an Ace, King, Queen, Jack, and Ten of the same suit. Royal Flushes pay 250 coins (or sometimes 800 coins) on maximum bet plays. Strategic decisions often revolve around whether to pursue a Royal Flush draw versus securing other hand values.
Kicker
In video poker, a kicker is a high card accompanying a lower-ranking hand. For example, holding Ace-King is more valuable than holding a single pair because the unpaired cards provide opportunities to improve your hand. Understanding kicker values is crucial for proper strategy decisions.
Inside Straight
A draw to a straight that requires a specific card to complete the sequence. For instance, holding 2-3-4-6 and needing a 5 to make a straight. Inside straight draws generally have lower expected value than outside straight draws and are often not pursued in optimal play unless no better options exist.