Video poker games offer players lots of variations, strategy

July 1, 12:24 PMPhoenix Casino ExaminerC.C. Royal

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Spin Poker(TM) is a favorite game at area casinos.

My favorite casino game when I play here in our Phoenix-area casinos or in Las Vegas (or really anywhere it’s offered) is video poker (VP.) I like the strategy involved in deciding which cards to hold and which to throw based on the game I am playing. For instance, I will hang on to different cards when playing Triple Double Bonus® poker with its big payouts for “kickers” versus what I hold when playing Double Double Bonus® or Super Aces®.

In addition to having my favorite “bonus” or “pay-table” variations, I particularly like a game from Action Gaming, Inc. and IGT called Spin Poker™ (or Spin Poker Deluxe™ with its 20-line option) that uses a single deck but gives the player lots of ways to win. The hold strategy is the same as in other VP games but the way in which the cards “spin” around the display screen appeals to me and, from what I see here in Phoenix, lots of other players as well — sometimes even attracting a line of would-be players waiting for machines to open up.

While there are lots of ways to learn how to play video poker (see resource list below) one of the most fun ways I’ve found is to play online for free -- no wagering, no money, just fun -- at a site called Videopoker.com that is owned and operated by the manufacturers of the gaming machines, the above-mentioned Action Gaming, Inc. and IGT. You’ll have to register with a user name and password and there is an option for a paid-membership but the free one is enough to get access to the gameplay.

In addition to playing single-line poker and other longtime games, you can check out new games such as “Big Times Draw Poker™” and “Quick Quads™” poker and a new fav of mine, “Ultimate X Poker™” which gives you a fun bonus multiplier on active hands. Play it and you’ll see what I mean.

    For more info/resources: Check out both new and old games -- plus strategy -- at:  Videopoker.com.  Also, for tips on different games and playing with optimal strategy, visit "The Wizard of Odds" online.

    Play Spin Poker™ or Spin Poker Deluxe™ at these area casinos:  Harrrah's Ak-Chin, Casino Arizona (both locations,) Fort McDowell Casino and Gila River's Wild Horse Pass Casino.