Introduction to Video Pokerby Steve Bourie

Okay, who knows the main difference between video poker and slot machines? C’mon now, raise your hands if you think you know it. If you said "a slot machine is a game of luck and video pokerSteve Bourie is the author of the American Casino Guide, the most comprehensive publication available for information on any U.S. casino/resort, riverboat or Indian casino. His guide has been published annually since 1992 and is now the biggest selling book in the U.S. on the subject of casino gambling.  Steve's website is www.americancasinoguide.com  is a game of skill" then you are correct! When you play a slot machine there is no decision you can make which will affect the outcome of the game. You put in your money; pull the handle; and hope for the best. In video poker, however, it is your skill in playing the cards which definitely affects the outcome of the game.

Okay, who knows the other major difference between video poker and slot machines? Well, you’re right again if you said "you never know what percentage a slot machine is set to pay back, but you can tell a video poker machine’s payback percentage just by looking at it." Of course if you knew that answer then you also knew that video poker machines almost always offer you better returns than slot machines (provided you make the right playing decisions).

Now for those of you who didn’t know the answers to those two questions, please read on. You others can skip the rest of this story as I am sure you’re eager to get back to your favorite video poker machine.