Video poker is a popular choice among seasoned gamblers due to its blend of skill and chance. Unlike traditional slot machines, video poker requires strategic decision-making, making it enticing for those who enjoy a mathematical approach to gaming. This guide will explore essential aspects of video poker, focusing on Return to Player (RTP), bonus terms, and wagering requirements that every player should consider.

Understanding Return to Player (RTP)

The RTP percentage is a crucial metric that indicates how much of the wagered money a game will pay back to players over time. In video poker, RTP can vary significantly depending on the variant you choose. Here are some key points to consider:

• Jacks or Better: Typically has an RTP of around 99.54% when played optimally.
• Deuces Wild: Offers a higher RTP of approximately 100.76% due to the wild cards, assuming perfect play.
• Bonus Poker: Generally has an RTP ranging from 97.30% to 99.17%, depending on the paytable.

Choosing a video poker variant with a high RTP is essential for maximising your long-term returns. Always check the paytable thoroughly to ensure you’re playing a version that offers the best odds.

Navigating Bonus Terms

Online casinos, including CrazyStar Casino slots, often provide enticing bonuses to attract players. However, understanding the fine print associated with these bonuses is crucial. Here’s what to look out for:

• Types of Bonuses:
  • Welcome Bonuses: Usually a match bonus on your first deposit, e.g., a 100% bonus up to £200.
  • No Deposit Bonuses: Free credits or spins offered without requiring a deposit.
• Wagering Requirements:
  • Commonly set between 30x to 50x the bonus amount.
  • For example, a £100 bonus with a 35x requirement means you must wager £3,500 before withdrawing any winnings.
• Game Contribution: Not all games contribute equally to the wagering requirements:
  • Video poker may only contribute 10% towards meeting wagering requirements.
  • This means you need to wager significantly more on video poker to clear a bonus compared to slots, which often contribute 100%.

Wagering Requirements Explained

Wagering requirements can often be the Achilles’ heel of online bonuses. Understanding how these requirements work will help you optimise your gameplay:

• Definition: Wagering requirements dictate how many times you must bet the bonus amount before you can withdraw any winnings.
• Impact on Strategy: With video poker’s lower contribution to wagering requirements, players may want to consider their gameplay strategy:
  • Focus on high RTP games to maximise returns while meeting these requirements.
  • Consider playing a mix of games that contribute more towards the wagering requirements.
• Example Calculation:
  

  Bonus Amount	Wagering Requirement (35x)	Total Wagering Needed
  £100	35	£3,500

In summary, video poker can be a rewarding endeavour for those who understand the intricacies of RTP, bonus terms, and wagering requirements. By choosing the right variant and keeping an eye on the fine print, experienced players can find significant value in their gameplay at online casinos like CrazyStar Casino.