The History of Video Poker

Many people are unaware that video poker has a history. Machines for wagering using poker cards have been around since the late 1800's. In fact, one might argue that the first slot machine was actually a video poker machine, since its original concept was based on that of simple poker - flipping cards to come up with a match.



However, video poker machines as we know them today have developed through the years from large, clunky bar-top models, to become one of the most popular online casino games. Video poker is even available in over a dozen internet flash casino variations.

Playing the Standard Video Poker Game

The original video poker game, developed in the 1960's and available in public venues since the mid-1970's, is based on standard 5-card draw. It was the "draw" feature which differentiated it from slot machines. In video poker machines, you insert money into the slot, hit the "deal" button, and five cards from a standard 52-card deck show up on the screen. You use the buttons below each card to keep what you want; the rest are discarded and replaced. If you have a winning hand, you are paid cash based on the payout table, which is usually printed on the machine.

Video Poker and Gambling

Video Poker machines have been available in international casinos and on American Indian reservations for many years. Even in many places where gambling was not technically legal, bar-top video poker machines thrived. During the 1980's and 1990's, places like Texas (which is synonymous with poker-playing) had video poker games in many bars which took and gave dollar bills. Until recently, one could win real cash money playing video poker. This is still true in casinos where gambling is legal. And, of course, online. In many bars, though, video poker games have been modified to offer prizes rather than money. However, the prizes are still often extravagant, including electronics, cars and overseas vacations.

Video Poker Variations and Internet Games

Since the advent of online casinos, and the tremendous growth of internet gambling, new video poker game variations are coming out regularly. There are game with wild cards, power poker multi-hand games, and progressive video poker jackpot games. Some of the most popular internet video poker games are Aces & Faces (with high payouts for hands of Aces or face cards), Deuces Wild (with twos as wild cards), and Joker Poker (with a 53-card deck containing a wild card Joker).

First Web Internet Casino offers over 45 video poker variations, 16 flash video poker games, and many other playing options. Try video poker for fun or play for real money. Learn more about video poker, including tips and strategies to win, at First Web.