Video poker might not be as popular today as it used to be, but many punters consider it their favorite casino game. Deservedly so, as it’s versatile, fun, and easy to play. Not to mention, there are so many variants to choose from, from Jacks or Better to Triple Bonus. Multi-hand video poker is not just one variant; it’s an entire category of video poker games designed to elevate the classic single-hand experience by allowing players to play with multiple hands at the same time.
In case multi hand video poker is something you’d like to explore more, we highly recommend sticking around until the end of our article in which we explain what multi hand video poker is, answer common questions about multi-hand video poker, and more. Explore the best strategies for playing multiple hands in video poker, and pros and cons of choosing multi-hand over single-hand video poker.
Key Points 1l5w3w
- Multi hand video poker allows you to play multiple hands per round
- Multi hands increase excitement and create faster gameplay
- Some variants offer higher payouts, but they also cost more to play
- Multi hand video poker may be too complex for beginners
What Is Multi-Hand Video Poker? 455t6x
In simple , multi-hand video poker is a variant where players can play multiple hands at once.
The number of hands can differ, but the common variants offer 3, 5, 10, 50, or even 100 hands per single round.
Although it may sound a bit more complicated than single-hand video poker, it really is not. Players essentially start each hand with the same initial draw. Then they decide which cards to hold – which applies to all hands that they are using in the round. The final step in the round is the final draw that replaces the discarded cards, during which each hand receives a unique card to complete the set. That way, every hand has a unique outcome that is unrelated to other hands.
One thing to keep in mind with multi hand video poker is that, because more hands are involved per round, the stakes per hand are typically set a bit lower than in single hand video poker.
Common Multi-Hand Poker Variations in Numbers 4q2d1k
Multi-hand video poker refers to any game of video poker that allows players to place more than one hand per round. In reality, we can categorize them into four types:
- 3-Hand Video Poker
- 5-Hand Video Poker
- 10-Hand Video Poker
- 50-Hand and 100-Hand Video Poker
Players who are starting to switch from single hand poker to multi hand typically start with 3-hand poker first. It’s the easiest variant to transition with. As they build skill, they slowly progress towards 5 and 10-hand video poker. In fact, 5-hand poker is actually the most common type of multi-hand games, as it’s commonly preferred by most players.
The high-volume games with 50 or more hands are a bit extreme and commonly played by experienced players who enjoyed the increase in risk and excitement. They are not advisable for beginners because they are not that well-versed in bankroll management.
How much does a hand in multi hand poker cost?
To answer truthfully, betting options in multi-hand games are the same as in single-hand games. The only difference is that you place more bets – as you play more hands – in multi-hand games.
Generally, a single stake in video poker games costs 1-5 coins. When playing more than one hands, the total stake is the result of multiplying the number of hands with the number of coins per hand.
Such as, playing 5 hands with a 5-coin stake equals 25 coins as the total coin stake.
The strategy of betting the maximum number of coins is disputed but often advised. Essentially, what it does is unlock the highest possible payout for a royal flush (the best hand in the game).
When it comes to odds, they vary depending on the variant chosen and the number of hands played. Strategy plays a key role too, as it is often the only way to reach a positive edge of 100.76% RTP (achievable on Deuces Wild) or 99.54% on Jacks or Better.
Still, multi-hand games feature a shoe shuffle between each round, which essentially means the odds of hitting a specific hand are very similar to single-hand video poker games. Still, using more hands increases the chances of spotting stronger hands with better payouts when more hands are in the game.
Do Multi-Hand Video Poker Games Have Lower RTPs? 5d5c41
Generally, multi-hand video poker games maintain the same Return to Player (RTP) percentages as their single-hand counterparts. Of course, that is if the paytable these two games use is identical.
However, some casinos may offer slightly altered paytables for multi-hand versions. This in turn, may affect the RTP for the game. All players are advised to check carefully the paytable before playing the game.
How Multi-Hand Video Poker Works 6o456f
Let’s have a closer look at how exactly video poker with multiple hands works in a real example.
- Making the bet: At the start of the round, players place a bet and choose the number of hands they want to have in the round. Each hand has a separate stake, but they are typically all the same size.
- Initial Deal: Once the bet has been set, the cards are dealt. A single five-card hand is dealt first, just like in a regular game of video poker.
- Hold/Discard Decision: Players choose which cards to hold out of the five dealt. This decision applies to all hands, no matter how many are used in the round.
- Draw Phase: Based on the decision to hold cards, a corresponding number of cards will be dealt as the replacement. However, each hand receives a unique set of replacements that substitute the discarded ones, creating unique 5-card hands.
- Payouts: According to the paytable, each hand will receive a corresponding payout. Since all hands are separate, the payouts may vary.
As soon as players receive their payouts, a new round starts. The punters can then decide again how much they want to stake and how many hands they want to play.
Can You Play Multiple Video Poker Games Simultaneously? 3c2v57
Yes, especially in online casinos, players can engage in multiple video poker games simultaneously. This can be achieved by opening multiple game windows or tabs. However, managing multiple games requires a solid understanding of video poker strategies, keen attention to detail, and effective bankroll management to mitigate the increased risk associated with simultaneous play.
Popular Variants of Multi Hand Video Poker 4s584o
Most video poker games appear in single-hand and multi-hand versions. That being said, the most popular variants for both are a nearly identical match.
Here are the most popular multi-hand video poker games.
- Deuces Wild: Very exciting for novices. Pairs are Wild cards that replace any other card to form the optimal hand.
- Jacks or Better: Most common option. The minimum qualifying hand is a pair of Jacks.
- Bonus Poker: An exciting video poker game offering bonus payouts for 4-of-a-kind hands. It’s similar to Jacks or Better.
- Double Double Bonus Poker: Even higher payouts than Bonus Poker. It’s more suitable for skilled players because of massive potential wins.
The choice of game depends entirely on the player’s goals and skill level. For instance, beginners prefer Jacks or Better or Deuces Wild, while skilled players prefer Bonus Poker and Double Double Bonus Poker. In the first two variants, the payouts are lower, but so is the risk; the other two offer greater payouts but are also harder to win unless with high-ranking hands. We recommend RTG’s Double Bonus Poker is perfect.
Do Multi-Hand Games Pay More Than Single-Hand Versions? 1q4w45
While the payout per hand remains the same in both single and multi-hand versions, multi-hand games may pay out more than their single counterparts. The reason for that is because playing multiple hands simultaneously increases the potential for higher total wins within a single round.
But that is not without its risks. Each hand counts separately, so instead of simply getting higher payouts for the same price, what multi-hand games do is increase the potential to trigger higher-ranked hands.
In other words, players technically bet more and therefore may win more, nothing else. Moreover, playing multiple hands at the same time increases the risk of losses. Over time, losses increase, which can happen quickly. That is why bankroll management remains one of the key skills players need when playing multiple hands simultaneously.
Strategy Tips for Multi-Hand Video Poker 6n2y1d
Playing multiple hands does bring players many benefits, but it also increases risk. Hence, it is a lot more appealing to experienced players than beginners.
Here are some quick tips that can be very helpful for playing multiple video poker hands within one single round.
- Use video poker strategies consistently. The basic strategy for multi-hand video poker is the same as the one you’d use for single hand games. For instance, the optimal strategy for Jacks or Better applies in both formats, so players are advised not to discard it when moving to multiple hands instead of just one.
- Start with fewer hands and gradually add more. Beginners may be overwhelmed with the pace when using dozens of hands. It’s simply too hard to see them all. The best solution is to start with fewer hands to get used to the pace and then slowly add more hands as you get used to the game.
- Bankroll management is key. Playing multiple hands increases the total bet per round, as each hand uses a separate stake. That quickly adds up, and so the losses can be greater than what you are comfortable with. Before you play, make sure you are skilled enough to handle high volatility.
- Practice playing video poker for free. Free video poker is a great way to build skill and make sure you enjoy the chosen variant. It’s also great for building skill and getting used to the pace without risking finances.
Another great way to make sure you are enjoying the game and are not overwhelmed is to pick beginner-friendly games, or variants that suit your skill level. Our recommendation is to start with Jacks or Better or Deuces Wild and, once you are ready, switch to Bonus Poker or similar games.
The Pros and Cons of Multi-Hand Video Poker 5o644d
Here’s a list of advantages and disadvantages that you get by playing multiple video poker hands at once.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| ➕ Higher potential for payouts | ➖ Higher volatility |
| ➕ More excitement and fun | ➖ Bankroll management is key |
| ➕ Fast-paced gameplay | ➖ More complex than single hand games |
| ➕ Faster skill building | ➖ Not suitable for beginners |
| ➕ Paytables are the same |
We should also note that both formats offer free play, so you can play and enjoy the games without financial strain in free mode, regardless of the number of hands you want to use.
Of course, mobile gameplay is also on the table. Most video poker games are now adjusted to HTML5 casinos, allowing players to play on the go on any device they want – both browser-based and in casino apps.
Should You Play Multi-Hand Video Poker? 2o686s
Is multi-hand video poker a better option than single-hand games?
The answer depends on the skills and tastes of the players. While technically everyone can play multiple hands, beginners are advised to start slow, with fewer hands. The speed and action of the rounds may be too much straight away.
But when we consider all things, multi-hand video poker indeed offers a fun, exciting twist on traditional video poker. It’s best suited for players who want more action, and potentially higher payouts. But there are downsides to it to consider.
One of the best ways to ensure you are having fun and getting the most out of playing multiple hands is to stick to strategies – and bankroll management. As long as you have a firm grasp on all these challenges, multi-hand video poker can be a very rewarding experience.
