Crypto Video Poker Casinos

Best crypto video poker casino sites 2024

What is crypto video poker?

Crypto video poker games are digital versions of traditional video poker that use cryptocurrencies, like Bitcoin or Ethereum, as the medium of exchange. These games blend the classic poker gameplay with the modern features of online casinos, offering players the ability to wager, win, and withdraw using various cryptocurrencies.

Our guide includes a selection of premier Bitcoin video poker casinos, tailored to your location. You’ll also find instructions on how to play video poker using Bitcoin, along with the various game types available.

Numerous online video poker sites accept Bitcoin, enabling players to engage in casino games and potentially earn money. These Bitcoin video poker casinos maintain the look and feel of classic poker machines, making them ideal for those nostalgic for traditional poker experiences. Meanwhile, newer generations of gamers have an opportunity to delve into the history of video poker, bridging the gap between past and present gaming trends.

Criteria for evaluating crypto video poker casinos

The digital revolution has swept through the gambling industry, introducing the exciting world of crypto video poker casinos. With the rise of cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, these online platforms offer a blend of traditional poker excitement and the modern convenience of digital currency. However, with so many options available, how does one evaluate the best from the rest? Let’s check the key criteria that you should consider when choosing a crypto video poker casino.

How to play Bitcoin video poker in crypto casinos?

Playing video poker in crypto casinos not only adds an exciting twist to this classic game but also introduces elements of privacy, speed, and global accessibility. For newcomers and seasoned players alike, navigating the nuances of Bitcoin video poker can be an exciting journey. Let’s start.

Crypto video poker rules and gameplay

As we delve into the realm of Bitcoin video poker, it’s important to note that most of these websites feature the five-card draw version of the game. This article aims to provide an overview of the video poker rules and the concept of the house edge, which varies depending on the paytables offered by different sites.

Video poker mechanics and house edge in crypto casinos

Video poker is typically played with a standard deck of 52 cards. When you’re ready to play, after depositing Bitcoin (BTC), you’ll need to decide your bet amount per hand and then press the ‘deal’ button. The video poker site will then present you with your initial five cards, and you’ll have the opportunity to discard any unwanted cards. Based on your choices, the site will give you replacement cards as needed.

The payouts for winning hands are immediate and determined by the site’s specific paytable. It’s crucial to review the paytable to understand the game’s return-to-player (RTP) percentage, which directly indicates the house edge.

For example, a standard 9/6 Jacks or Better game usually offers an RTP of about 99.54%, featuring a 6:1 payout for a flush and 9:1 for a full house. Conversely, a 6/5 game only offers an RTP of around 95%.

A typical 9/6 Jacks or Better paytable might look like this:

• Jacks or Better: 1
• Two Pairs: 2
• Three of a Kind: 3
• Straight: 4
• Flush: 6
• Full House: 9
• Four of a Kind: 25
• Straight Flush: 50
• Royal Flush: 250

Players generally have the option to bet between 1 to 5 credits, with some variations depending on the site. Often, there’s a bonus for hitting a royal flush on a maximum bet of 5 credits, potentially offering a jackpot of 4,000 credits. Some sites might even offer higher payouts for achieving a straight flush or royal flush.

Winning chances in Bitcoin video poker

With optimal play in a 9/6 Jacks or Better game, the house edge can be as low as 0.46%. However, less skilled players might face a house edge closer to 4%. Interestingly, proficient players can gain a slight advantage in games like Deuces Wild.

Bitcoin video poker sites might offer high-return games, banking on the fact that very few players can consistently play at an optimal level. To enhance your chances and reduce the house edge, it’s beneficial to learn and apply effective Jacks or Better strategies.

The winning hands in crypto video poker

To excel in crypto video poker, it’s crucial for players to have a thorough understanding of standard poker hand rankings. Here’s a detailed explanation of the winning hands, starting from the highest:

• Royal Flush: This is the best possible hand in poker and is quite rare. It consists of an Ace, King, Queen, Jack, and 10, all of the same suit. It’s a ‘made hand’, meaning it cannot be improved with further drawing. The Royal Flush is unbeatable and is often the highest-paying hand in video poker games.
• Straight Flush: This hand consists of five consecutive cards of the same suit. For example, 5-6-7-8-9 of hearts. It ranks below a Royal Flush and above a Four of a Kind. The higher the rank of the top card in the sequence, the higher the rank of the straight flush.
• Four of a Kind: Also known as ‘quads’, this hand consists of four cards of the same rank and one side card or ‘kicker’. For instance, four Aces or four 9s. In games with community cards, if two players have the same Four of a Kind, the one with the higher fifth card wins.
• Full House: This is a combination of three cards of one rank and two cards of another rank – for example, three 7s and two Kings. In comparing two full houses, the hand with the higher-ranking three cards wins.
• Flush: A Flush is five cards of the same suit, not in consecutive order. The highest card of the five determines the rank of the flush. If two players have flushes, the one with the higher top card wins.
• Straight: This hand is made up of five consecutive cards of different suits. The Ace can be used either as the highest card or the lowest card. For instance, A-K-Q-J-10 is the highest straight, while 5-4-3-2-A is the lowest.
• Three of a Kind: Also known as ‘trips’ or ‘a set’, this hand contains three cards of the same rank, and two unrelated side cards. The higher the rank of the three cards, the stronger the hand.
• Two Pair: This hand has two cards of one rank, two cards of another rank, and one side card or kicker. When comparing two two-pair hands, the hand with the highest pair wins, irrespective of the second pair or kicker.
• One Pair: This consists of two cards of the same rank and three side cards. In the event of two hands having the same pair, the highest side card, and if necessary, the second-highest or third-highest side card wins.
• High Card: If a hand does not fall into any of the above categories, it’s valued by the highest card it contains. If two hands have the same high card, the second-highest card determines the winner, and so on.

Types of Bitcoin video poker

Each of these Bitcoin video poker games offers unique twists and varying levels of complexity, catering to a wide range of player preferences and strategies.

Jacks or Better (Draw Poker)

A foundational game in video poker, Jacks or Better requires players to create a hand better than a pair of jacks to win. This game is known for its straightforward gameplay and serves as a basis for many other video poker variants. Different versions may offer varying pay tables and some might include bonuses for specific hands, like a royal flush, under provably fair conditions, ensuring transparency and fairness in gameplay.

Deuces Wild

In Deuces Wild, every ‘two’ in the deck acts as a wild card. This dramatically changes the game’s dynamics, making it easier to form high-ranking hands. The presence of four wild cards (the deuces) means that the paytable is adjusted to accommodate the increased likelihood of strong hands, such as a five-of-a-kind.

Double Bonus Poker

This game builds on the principles of Jacks or Better and Bonus Poker, offering extra rewards for four-of-a-kind hands. The ‘Double Bonus’ refers to enhanced payouts for certain four-of-a-kind combinations, like four aces. To balance these bonuses, payouts for more common hands, like two pairs, are reduced, which adds an element of strategy in choosing how aggressively to pursue the higher-paying hands.

Bonus Poker

Bonus Poker closely resembles Jacks or Better but offers higher payouts for certain four-of-a-kind hands. The game starts by players choosing their bet size, and the potential payout increases with the number of coins wagered. This variant is popular among players looking for a familiar base game with the potential for higher payouts on specific hands.

Tens or Better

Easier to win than Jacks or Better due to the lower qualifying hand (a pair of tens), Tens or Better is ideal for beginners or those seeking more frequent wins. Though the payouts for higher-ranking hands are typically lower than other variants, the game’s lower volatility can make for a steadier gaming experience.

Joker Poker (Joker Wild)

Adding a joker as a wild card introduces new winning hand possibilities, such as five-of-a-kind. The joker can stand in for any other card, increasing the chance of forming a strong hand. The presence of the wild card means the minimum winning hand is often higher than in traditional Jacks or Better, adding an extra layer of excitement and strategy.

Bitcoin casino bonuses in crypto video poker

Bitcoin casinos offer various bonuses to attract new players and retain existing ones, enhancing the gaming experience. Here’s an overview of common types of bonuses:

Welcome bonus

Aimed at encouraging new players to keep gambling, these generous bonuses are typically offered after sign-up. The casino may continue to provide these bonuses as the player engages in their favorite games, incentivizing continued play.

Free spins

A prevalent type of bonus in crypto casinos, free spins encourage players to keep playing instead of leaving the game. An important aspect of free spin bonuses is that winnings earned from them often come with specific requirements before withdrawal is allowed. This means players must meet certain conditions to access their winnings.

No deposit bonuses

These bonuses allow players to enjoy games without making an initial deposit, offering a glimpse of the casino’s offerings. Although these bonuses are relatively rare and usually small, they provide an opportunity to experience real gameplay without financial commitment. However, they often come with numerous terms and conditions. For instance, a casino might require players to deposit funds before they can cash out any winnings earned from these bonuses.

Top video poker bonuses in crypto casinos

Vave Casino

9.5 / 10

100% up to 1 BTC

• Over 5 000 slot games
• Professional live dealers

Play Now

FortuneJack Casino

9.6 / 10

Up to 6 BTC or 20% Cashback

• 4-steps welcome bonus
• Great reward program

Play Now

Cloudbet Casino

9.4 / 10

100% up to 5BTC

• Awesome welcome bonus
• 20+ cryptos available

Play Now

Thunderpick Casino

9.4 / 10

100% up to 600 EUR

• Extra fast registration
• Daily giveaways

Play Now

Crypto video poker vs traditional online video poker: Benefits of Bitcoin video poker

While the next benefits offer a compelling case for Bitcoin video poker, players should be aware of the risks, including the need for a basic understanding of cryptocurrencies and the volatility of Bitcoin’s value. Careful consideration of these factors is advised when choosing between Bitcoin and traditional online video poker.

• Anonymity and privacy: Bitcoin video poker enhances privacy by not requiring detailed personal information. This is particularly beneficial for players who wish to keep their gambling activities confidential. The anonymity also extends to transaction records, which do not directly link to the player’s personal identity, unlike credit card or bank transactions.
• Enhanced security: Blockchain technology, which underpins Bitcoin, provides a decentralized and immutable ledger, making transactions tamper-proof. This level of security reduces the risk of fraud and unauthorized access, as each transaction is verified across multiple nodes in the network.
• Lower transaction fees: Bitcoin transactions bypass traditional banking systems, eliminating many of the overhead costs associated with them. This results in lower fees, especially noticeable in cross-border transactions which typically incur significant charges in conventional banking.
• Faster transactions: Traditional banking methods can take several days for transactions to clear, especially in the case of international transfers. Bitcoin transactions, however, are processed much quicker, often within minutes, making both deposits and withdrawals significantly faster.
• Global accessibility: Bitcoin’s lack of affiliation with any specific country or regulatory body makes it universally accessible. Players from regions where traditional online gambling faces restrictions due to banking regulations can participate in Bitcoin video poker without such limitations.
• Provably fair gaming: Bitcoin video poker games often employ provably fair algorithms, allowing players to independently verify each game’s outcome for fairness. This transparency is rare in traditional online gaming, where players must rely on external audits and the casino’s reputation.
• Currency value fluctuations: The volatility of Bitcoin can be a double-edged sword. While it introduces an element of risk, it also offers the potential for the value of winnings to increase in terms of fiat currency, adding an extra layer of excitement for some players.
• Innovative game variants: Crypto casinos are known for their willingness to innovate, often introducing new game variants and features. This can include unique thematic games, progressive jackpots exclusive to crypto, or even games that incorporate elements of blockchain technology, such as NFTs.

Are there live dealer crypto video poker?

Nowadays live dealer video poker games are not commonly found in online casinos, including those that accept cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. This is primarily due to the nature of video poker and how it’s traditionally played.

Video poker is essentially a single-player game. It involves playing against a machine (or software in the case of online casinos), where you try to make the best possible hand from the cards you’re dealt. This format doesn’t naturally lend itself to a live dealer setup, which is typically used for games that are inherently more interactive and social, like blackjack, roulette, and baccarat.

Live dealer games are popular because they replicate the experience of playing at a physical casino, with real dealers managing the game in real time, often with the ability to interact with players. Video poker, on the other hand, is more akin to slots in its solitary gameplay style.

However, the online casino industry is constantly evolving, and operators are always looking for new ways to enhance the player experience. While live dealer video poker is not standard, the future might bring innovations and changes to this trend, especially with the growing interest in cryptocurrency-based gaming.

For those interested in live dealer experiences with the use of cryptocurrencies, there are plenty of options in other casino games like live blackjack, roulette, and baccarat on many crypto-friendly gaming sites. These games offer the excitement of a live casino experience with the added convenience and security of using cryptocurrencies.

Bitcoin video poker on the go

The emergence of mobile Bitcoin casinos has been a game-changer in the world of online gambling, and this innovative trend has also revolutionized the way video poker is played. With the increasing reliance on smartphones, these digital platforms have adeptly adapted to the nuances of mobile technology, bringing the excitement of video poker right into the palm of your hand.

The era when players had to visit a physical casino to enjoy their favorite video poker games is now a relic of the past. The swift evolution of technology, along with the integration of cryptocurrency, has unshackled players from the limitations of geographical location and time. Today, the thrill of playing video poker in online casinos is accessible anytime and anywhere.

Recognizing this paradigm shift, many leading video poker gambling sites have vigorously upgraded their websites and developed mobile applications that are friendly to a wide range of devices. These advancements have paved the way for a streamlined and engaging Bitcoin mobile casino experience. Players can now indulge in quick, easy, and secure gaming sessions using their smartphones and tablets, with the added convenience of cryptocurrency transactions.

The experience of playing video poker has been significantly enhanced in its online and mobile adaptations. The mobile apps of various casinos are meticulously designed to support different versions of video poker, providing a comprehensive and immersive gaming experience. From traditional Jacks or Better to more complex variants like Deuces Wild, every game is just a tap away.

Moreover, for enthusiasts of live-action video poker, mobile platforms cater to this preference as well. These games typically demand quick thinking and rapid decision-making, adding a layer of excitement and challenge to the gaming experience. With a stable internet connection, players can enjoy the adrenaline rush of live video poker, competing against others in real time.

How to get the first cryptocurrency to play video poker in Bitcoin casinos?

To start playing video poker in Bitcoin casinos, you first need to acquire some cryptocurrency, specifically Bitcoin in this case. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Choose a cryptocurrency wallet: Before you can purchase Bitcoin, you need a place to store it. This is where a cryptocurrency wallet comes in. There are various types of wallets, including online wallets, mobile wallets, desktop wallets, and hardware wallets. Each type has its own set of features and levels of security. Research and choose one that best fits your needs.
2. Buy Bitcoin: Once you have a wallet, the next step is to buy Bitcoin. You can purchase Bitcoin through various means:
   • • Cryptocurrency exchanges: Platforms like Coinbase, Binance, and Kraken allow you to buy Bitcoin using traditional currencies (USD, EUR, etc.).
     • Bitcoin ATMs: These function like standard ATMs, but you can use them to buy Bitcoin.
     • Peer-to-peer platforms: Websites like LocalBitcoins allow you to buy Bitcoin directly from other individuals.
3. Payment services: Some online payment platforms, like PayPal, now offer options to buy cryptocurrency.
4. Transfer Bitcoin to your wallet: After purchasing Bitcoin, transfer it to your chosen wallet. This usually involves generating a receiving address from your wallet and then entering this address when making a withdrawal from the exchange or platform where you bought the Bitcoin.

Tips and strategies for success in Bitcoin video poker

Winning in crypto video poker isn’t just about luck; it also requires strategy. Here are some tips to enhance your chances of winning:

• Know the payouts: Different games have different payout structures. Familiarize yourself with the payouts for each hand in the game you’re playing.
• Practice bankroll management: Set a budget and stick to it. Don’t chase losses, and know when to walk away.
• Understand the game variant: There are several variants of video poker, like Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, and Joker Poker. Each has its own strategy, so understand the rules and strategies of the variant you’re playing.
• Utilize the ‘Hold’ feature wisely: After the initial deal, you have the option to ‘hold’ certain cards and discard others. Make strategic decisions about which cards to keep.
• Avoid keeping a kicker with three of a kind: If you have three of a kind, discard the other two cards. Holding a kicker (an unrelated high card) doesn’t improve your hand.
• Discard the fifth card with two pairs: When you have two pairs, let go of the fifth card. This opens up the possibility of upgrading to a full house.
• Four-to-a-flush strategy: If you’re one card short of a flush, discard the odd card out, unless you have a high pair like Jacks or better.
• Sacrifice a low pair for a higher hand: If you’re one card away from a straight flush or royal flush, it’s often worth discarding a low pair in pursuit of the higher hand.
• Choose a low pair over high single cards: Holding onto a non-winning pair (like a pair of eights) is often more strategic than keeping high single cards (like Jacks, Queens, Kings, or Aces).
• Keep cards in an outside straight draw: In an outside straight draw (e.g., 6,7,8,9), keep the four cards and aim for one of two cards that can complete the straight.
• Avoid inside straight draws: With an inside straight draw (like 10, J, Q, A), where only one specific card can complete the straight, it’s usually better to discard the four cards.
• Flush or straight draws: If you’re close to a flush or straight, keep all five cards unless you also have a draw for a straight flush or royal flush.
• Three to a royal or straight flush decision: When you have three cards towards a royal or straight flush, keep them unless you have a pair of Jacks or higher, which is typically a stronger hand.

Final thoughts on Bitcoin video poker in crypto casinos

Top-rated sites offer a seamless and enjoyable experience for those looking to play video poker games online. These platforms provide players with a diverse range of game options, catering to different preferences in complexity and gameplay style.

One of the key attractions of online video poker is the convenience and thrill of mobile betting. This not only elevates the excitement levels but also adds a competitive edge to the game. However, one notable drawback of online casinos is their limited capacity to replicate the engaging social atmosphere of traditional casinos.

After thorough reviews and considering the information gathered from both established and emerging Bitcoin casinos, it’s advised to choose a platform that offers an optimal mix of diverse games, attractive bonuses, and an overall excellent user experience for players.

FAQ