Video poker is an exciting and strategic game that combines elements of traditional poker with the convenience of online play. This guide will walk you through the steps needed to start playing video poker at online casinos like viks casino, ensuring you have a comprehensive understanding of the mechanics involved, including software providers, volatility, and game variety.

Step 1: Registration

To play video poker online, the first step is to register at your chosen online casino. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the website of your selected online casino.
2. Click on the “Sign Up” or “Register” button.
3. Fill in the required personal information, including your name, email address, and date of birth (ensure you are at least 18 years old, as per UK gambling regulations).
4. Create a secure password.
5. Accept the terms and conditions and confirm your registration.

Step 2: Claiming the Bonus

Most online casinos offer bonuses to new players. Here’s how to claim yours:

1. Log in to your casino account.
2. Navigate to the promotions or bonuses section.
3. Choose the video poker bonus, which may include a match bonus (e.g., 100% up to £200).
4. Follow the instructions to claim the bonus, which often requires a deposit.
5. Be aware of wagering requirements, usually around 35x the bonus amount, meaning you must wager 35 times the bonus before withdrawal is possible.

Step 3: Selecting Your Game

Choosing the right video poker game is crucial. Consider the following factors:

• RTP (Return to Player): Look for games with an RTP of at least 95% for better odds.
• Volatility: Higher volatility games have bigger payouts but are less frequent; lower volatility offers smaller, more regular wins.
• Game Variety: Common types include Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, and Joker Poker. Each variation has different rules and strategies.

Step 4: Making Your Deposit

Once you’ve chosen a game, you’ll need to fund your account:

1. Go to the cashier or banking section of the casino.
2. Select your preferred payment method (e.g., debit card, e-wallet, bank transfer).
3. Enter the amount you wish to deposit.
4. Confirm the transaction and check for any minimum deposit limits, typically around £10.

Step 5: Playing Video Poker

Now you’re ready to start playing:

1. Select your preferred video poker game from the casino’s lobby.
2. Choose your bet size (usually between £0.01 to £5 per hand).
3. Click “Deal” to receive your initial hand of five cards.
4. Decide which cards to keep and which to discard by clicking on them.
5. Click “Draw” to replace the discarded cards.
6. Check your hand against the paytable to determine if you’ve won.

Step 6: Understanding the Paytable

Each video poker game has a specific paytable that outlines the payouts for different hands. Here’s a sample paytable for Jacks or Better:

Step 7: How to Withdraw

After enjoying your time playing video poker, you may want to withdraw your winnings:

1. Visit the cashier or banking section again.
2. Select the “Withdraw” option.
3. Choose your withdrawal method (ensure it matches your deposit method for quicker processing).
4. Enter the amount you wish to withdraw (be mindful of any minimum withdrawal limits, usually around £20).
5. Confirm your withdrawal request and wait for the processing time, which can vary from a few hours to several days depending on the method chosen.

Final Thoughts

Playing video poker at online casinos is straightforward, but understanding the rules and strategies can enhance your experience. Always gamble responsibly and ensure you are playing at a licensed and regulated casino, such as those compliant with the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Happy gaming!