Before online video poker became popular, it wasn’t well-known. Despite its debut in the 1970s, it was initially not embraced by gamblers, often being mistaken for slot machines due to its simplicity. Unlike slots, video poker requires skill, as players must make quick, strategic decisions that impact their outcomes. We are one of the best sites to find video poker in Canadian casinos. If you’re new to the game, you’ll learn how to play, winning strategies, and where to find the best online video poker Canada casinos.
The Best Canadian Casinos for Video Poker
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What to Consider When Choosing a Video Poker Casino
Our team of casino experts and poker video fans review online casinos to find the best websites to play video poker online. We focus on key factors like:
- Bonuses: We search for the best welcome offers and promotions.
- Game Selection: Only casinos with a good range of video poker variants and other games make our list.
- Mobile Compatibility: We recommend sites that work on mobile devices.
- Payment Options: Flexible payment methods are a priority when you want to play video poker.
- Customer Service: We value responsive and helpful support teams.
How to Play Video Poker
Canadian gambling platforms have a variety of video poker online casino games, each with its own unique features and bonuses. However, the core rules remain the same across all versions. If you’re familiar with basic online casino video poker, you’ll find it easy to grasp. The key thing to know is that it follows a hierarchy of hands and involves a draw. Unlike traditional poker, there’s no raising, calling, or bluffing involved.
When you play online video poker, you’ll first choose your bet. You can wager anywhere, with coin values varying by game. It’s best to start with smaller bets until you feel confident in your skills.
You’ll see many popular video poker games online, like Texas Hold’em, Jacks or Better, Aces and Eights, Aces and Faces, and Deuces Wild. After placing your bet, hit “Deal” to receive five random cards. Choose the ones you want to keep by clicking “Hold” and then re-deal the remaining cards. Your goal is to build the best hand possible, and the hand rankings mirror those in poker. Your payout depends on the strength of your hand, your bet, and the game’s payout rate.
An essential tip: always double-check that you’re holding the right cards. It’s easy to overlook an important card in the heat of the moment. Once you click “re-deal,” there’s no going back.
Popular Variants of Video Poker in Canada
Similar to traditional poker, video poker games come in many different versions. Each poker video game has its own set of rules, payout systems, and sometimes even special jackpots. Here’s a look at the most popular types of video poker in Canada and what makes each one unique.
Jacks or Better
Jacks or Better is a popular video poker game that’s ideal for beginners due to its lower risk. In this game, you need at least a pair of jacks to win. It’s considered low-risk because the payouts tend to be smaller, and players typically win or lose less compared to other poker games. The top prize is awarded for hitting a royal flush when betting the maximum.
Deuces Wild
Deuces Wild features wild cards, where all deuces act as wild cards, meaning they can substitute for any card needed to complete the best possible hand. Because of the wild cards, you’ll get stronger hands more often, but the payouts are generally lower. Unlike other poker variants, Deuces Wild does not offer a payout for a common pair (such as a pair of jacks), making it more challenging to win with lower hands.
Joker Poker
Joker Poker, also known as Joker Wild Poker, is a twist on standard video poker. Unlike other versions like Deuces Wild or Jacks or Better, it adds an extra card: the Wild Joker, making the deck 53 cards. This Wild Joker can substitute for any card, helping you form better hands. As a result, some rules change; for example, a pair of Kings is the lowest winning hand. The goal remains the same: use your five cards to make the best hand possible, and the Wild Joker increases your chances of getting a strong, winning hand.
Online Video Poker in Canada
Online video poker is accessible through various platforms. Many platforms have different tables, tournaments, and stakes to match different preferences and skill levels.
Major online casinos feature both traditional poker games and video poker. Reviews and ratings for these sites are generally positive. We also review these casinos, so you can find our recommendations on this website.
Video poker in Canada mirrors the traditional game but with a few differences: live dealer games might have different minimum bets, and virtual tables can hold more players. The rules are similar, but actions like folding or raising are done on a screen.
Players can also compete against a computer dealer. Unlike in traditional poker, there are no opponents to consider.
Because of the digital format, online live poker tends to be faster-paced. Players can bet simultaneously without waiting for their turn and play multiple tables at once. The best video poker online in Canada is even quicker, as players don’t wait for others and can make decisions rapidly.
Understanding Video Poker Pay Tables
The simplest online casino video poker form is Jacks or Better, where a pair of jacks is the minimum hand needed to win. In this video poker online casino game, payouts generally look like this: 5 coins for a pair of jacks, 10 coins for two pairs, 15 coins for three of a kind, and 20 coins for a straight. A Royal Flush (10-J-Q-K-A all in the same suit) can pay out around 4,000 coins, though this can vary from one video poker game to another. You don’t have to memorize these payouts when you play online video poker. Most real-money casinos with video poker show them on the screen.
RTP (Return to Player) in Video Poker
The Return to Player (RTP) of a game is the percentage of total bets that is returned to players as winnings. For instance, a game with a 96% RTP means that, on average, $96 of every $100 wagered is paid back to players. However, since each video poker game outcome is random, some players may win while others may lose.
The house edge is the casino’s advantage built into video poker games. It’s calculated by subtracting the RTP from 100%. So, with a 96% RTP, the casino keeps $4 of every $100 wagered over time.
In online video poker in Canada, outcomes are random, and odds can vary with each hand and bet. However, video poker generally has a low house edge, making it more favorable compared to many other casino games. For example, Jacks or Better with a 9/6 paytable has an RTP of 98.181% with a three-credit bet and 99.543% with a five-credit bet, translating to house edges of 1.819% and 0.457%, respectively.
Strategy for Video Poker
Video poker differs from the poker you see in movies or on TV. It’s more like slots, as you’re playing against the casino rather than other players. However, video poker strategy is important in both types of poker, and learning these video poker strategies can be very beneficial:
- Pay Table: This shows how much you can win based on the poker hand you make. Higher-ranked hands earn more.
- Held Cards: After dealing, you can choose which cards to keep by pressing the ‘Hold’ button. The cards you don’t hold will be replaced.
- Final Draw: After choosing your strategy, press ‘Draw’ to see your final hand and check if you’ve won.
Once you understand the basics, you can improve your game by studying poker strategy charts. This will help you make the most profitable decisions and boost your bankroll.
Video Poker Tournaments in Canada
While video poker is a popular game in Canada, there are no actual tournaments for video poker. The formats typically associated with poker tournaments—such as Sit & Go (SNG), Multi-Table Tournaments (MTTs), Heads-Up matches, and Satellites—are not available for video poker. These structures are designed for traditional poker games like Texas Hold’em. However, if you’re interested in learning more about common poker tournaments, including those mentioned above, we can provide you with all the details on how they work.
- Sit & Go (SNG) Tournaments. Sit & Go poker tournaments are quick and easy, typically lasting 30 minutes to an hour. You join a table, and once it’s full—usually with 6 or 9 players—the game starts. The top 2 players from a 6-player table or the top 3 from a 9-player table win.
- Multi-Table Tournaments (MTTs). MTTs are perfect for playing for big prizes with a smaller buy-in. Players start at various tables and are shuffled as competitors are eliminated. The game continues until the final table, where the top players are decided. These tournaments can last several hours and are available around the clock at many casino websites.
- Heads-Up Tournaments. For intense one-on-one action, try Heads-Up tournaments. Here, two players face off at a time, with the winner advancing to challenge others until a champion is crowned. This format of real money poker has exciting, fast-paced gameplay and gives you a chance to sharpen your skills.
- Satellites. Satellites are a great way to win entry into larger, high-stakes tournaments. You can qualify for major events by competing in these smaller preliminary tournaments.
How to join tournaments:
- Sign up on a poker website.
- Log in and choose ‘Real Money’ or ‘Play Money.’
- Go to the Tournaments tab.
- Pick your game, category, buy-in, speed, or type.
- Register for the event and confirm your buy-in.
- Get your confirmation and join the game at the start time, or wait if it’s a Sit & Go.
Bonuses and Promotions for Video Poker
Bonuses in online casinos can be confusing, but they’re definitely worth exploring if you find the best deals. Our team hunts down the top promotions for you to get great offers. Since video poker bonus deals change, be sure to check our list regularly for updates.
When you visit one of our recommended video poker sites, you might encounter these standard bonuses, which could help you win big
- Welcome Bonus: Almost every video poker site offers a welcome bonus to attract new players. This usually includes a deposit match bonus and sometimes free spins.
- Deposit Match Bonus: This bonus matches a percentage of your deposit with extra bonus money. For example, a 100% deposit match up to CA$100 means if you deposit CA$50, you’ll get an extra CA$50 in bonus funds.
- No Deposit Bonus: Some sites offer a bonus without requiring a deposit. These bonuses are often smaller and harder to find, but they let you play without an initial deposit.
- Reload Bonus: Offered on additional deposits after claiming the welcome bonus, reload bonuses typically provide a lower percentage match. For instance, a 50% match up to CA$50.
Bonuses vary, including cashback, prize draws, and more. Always check the promotions page when you visit a recommended video poker site.
Video Poker on Mobile Devices
An option to play video poker in Canada on your smartphone or tablet is expected. You no longer need to be tied to your computer—now you can play a game wherever you are.
Online casinos usually let you play video poker games directly in your mobile browser, and many also provide a video poker app.
Check out our website reviews to find the best real money video poker apps. These apps are compatible with most modern devices, including Apple iPhones and iPads. Online video poker games also work on Android phones and tablets, such as the Samsung Galaxy series.
Legal Considerations for Video Poker in Canada
Yes, online video poker is legal in Canada, but finding a bank or credit card company that allows transactions with poker sites can be challenging. For example, I live in Canada and play Texas Hold’em, but my credit cards often get rejected, and TD Bank has restrictions on online gambling and poker. So, I usually use eWallets or cryptocurrency.
The Canadian Criminal Code doesn’t specifically address offshore gambling websites, leaving some ambiguity. It states that online gambling sites operating in Canada must be licensed. Always check the licensing and regulatory status of any poker video website you use.
Several provincial gaming bodies regulate gambling in Canada, although their offerings are often less extensive compared to offshore sites. Here are some key provincial authorities for video poker Canada:
- Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission
- Alcohol, Gaming, Fuel and Tobacco Division of Nova Scotia
- BCLC (British Columbia Lottery Corporation)
- Liquor and Gaming Authority of Manitoba
- Loto-Québec
- New Brunswick Gaming Control
- Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation
- Prince Edward Island Lotteries Commission
- Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority
- Service NL
The Kahnawake Gaming Commission, based in Quebec’s Kahnawake Indian Reservation, is another notable online casino video poker authority. It operates as a sovereign entity and licenses both local and international gaming companies.
Pros and Cons of Video Poker
Video poker online casino games blend elements of poker and slot machines. That’s why it’s a favorite for many gamblers. However, like all gambling, video poker Canada has its advantages and drawbacks. Here’s a look at both:
- Skill Involvement: Unlike many casino games that rely purely on luck, video poker involves skill. Players must decide which cards to keep or discard, which adds a strategic element to the game. This gives players some control over the outcome.
- Better Odds: Video poker often has better odds than other casino games, especially when you play video poker with the right strategy. With a low house edge, sometimes below 1%, skilled players can even gain an advantage over the house.
- Variety of Games: There are many video poker variants, each with its own rules and payout rates. Games like Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, and Joker Poker have different payout possibilities. Some variants even have payout rates above 100%, giving players plenty of options to suit their style.
- High Variance: Video poker can be high variance, meaning players might face long losing streaks before a win. This can lead to significant bankroll swings, and players need a decent budget to handle potential losses.
- Complex Strategy: To maximize returns, players must learn and apply optimal strategies for the specific variant they’re playing. While basic strategies are simple, mastering them requires study and practice. Players who don’t learn the correct strategies might increase the house edge and lower their chances of winning.
- Potential for Addiction: Video poker can be addictive due to its fast pace and the allure of big wins. It’s important to set limits on both time and money spent when you play video poker online to avoid developing problematic gambling habits.
Conclusion
Video poker is a great game for several reasons. First, it usually has a lower house edge than other casino games, which means better odds of winning. Second, players can make strategic choices and have more control over the game. Plus, it moves at a slower pace compared to many other casino games, and new players get more time to understand the rules and make decisions.
Don’t waste time struggling with fewer options. Sign up with one of the best Canadian online casinos listed on this website, and you might even score a fantastic welcome bonus.
FAQ
Yes, it is. Just make sure to play on licensed websites. All casino platforms mentioned on our website have legal video poker tables for Canadians.
Your chances of winning depend on the game variant and the hand you’re dealt. For instance, in Jacks or Better, the odds of hitting a Royal Flush with a five-credit bet are 0.002%, while the odds of getting a Two Pair are 12.928%.
Yes, you can. Many of our recommended casinos have free demo versions of their video poker games, and some don’t even require you to create an account. It’s a great way to practice or just have fun without spending any money.
The choice between video poker and slots often comes down to personal preference. Video poker is more fun for those who like strategy and decision-making, as it requires skill and offers a chance to influence the outcome. Slots are totally random, so nothing depends on strategy or your skill.
