Online video poker: The tranquillity of remote and solo gaming

You wouldn’t necessarily think the words gambling and relaxation go hand in hand, that is until you think of video poker. This casino game incorporates a five-card draw and is played on an electronic machine that resembles a slot machine. The very first video poker machine, ‘The Poker-Matic’ was put on the market in 1970 by Dale Electronics. In the gambling hub of the world,  Las Vegas casinos installed these machines in a large number of their establishments, although this proved to be unsuccessful.

The 1990s, however, marked a change in poker technology thanks to the internet and the birth of online casinos and subsequently, online video poker. In 1994, Microgaming was the first to make online video poker forums, and the rest is history.

The implementation of video poker into online casinos means players can enjoy a solo experience with updated games and better security. Here are five reasons why players may opt for online video poker for a relaxing gambling experience.

Simple Intellectual Stimulation

Video poker is intellectually stimulating like most poker games, but it has more personal involvement than some. Because players can choose which cards to hold and withdraw, they must think tactically about how beneficial each card is, against the odds of the random number generator that is used to shuffle the value of the cards that are given to the player in each round.

Compared to table games, the concept is much more simple, as players do not have to intensely study their opponents like they may need to in other table poker games. For example, Texas ‘Hold Em requires participants to study their opponents closely to see who may have the best hand, or what decisions to make to acquire the best hand.  Simply put, removing the pressure of other players helps one to elevate one’s game skills and focus on strategy rather than chance.

The Appeal of Playing Solo Virtually

Playing video poker games solo online provided the player with a tailored online gaming experience. This means there are no time constraints facing the player or exterior factors to observe such as other players, because it is just them, their mind, and the machine! Sure, this is still the case in real-life casinos, but there is likely to be a lot of other people around and background noise that can throw off one’s mojo.

Additionally, playing solo means you are aware of exactly how much you are betting, and you are not pressured by friends or peers to increase this number with money you don’t have, removing the potential for financial stress.  Of course, as it is with video poker, people should always be responsible with money regardless of whether they are playing with others or not, but video poker certainly can ensure that players are not dipping into their funds to appease others.

There Are Lots Of Them To Play!

A lot of casino games have evolved into different variations online, and video poker is one of them. Games online such as Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, Bonus Poker, and Aces and Faces are a few of the favorites.

Each game features a different number of cards and payout values. The rules are also altered depending on which cards are the focal point of the game, and this gives players the choice if they want to play the games with more cards for higher payouts or stick to the original.  As a result, giving the player a variety of options makes them treat it like a leisure activity, not as a quick payday.

Casinos Have a Low House Edge in Online Video Poker

Generally, video poker already has a low house edge, meaning the casino has a small chance of making a profit in video poker games. Players enjoy games such as video poker because there is an element of control, and this is no different from online video poker. Money can be made in smaller amounts here, but big payouts are not as common, unlike in table games where people tend to statistically spend more and win big less frequently.

Although, minimizing losses is beneficial for the player because they’ll have more money overall to bet if they want to. Because video poker has a high return to player (RTP), this means their money lasts longer because they can effectively earn it back in a quick time, resulting in greater gains in the long run, without tension.

Despite the lower wins that video poker provides, the industry is still a hit with consumers. The global video poker machines industry is forecast to be worth $ 93.3 billion by 2030.

Lack of Stress

Lots of poker games are high-stakes and rely on chance and luck. Often there is nail-biting, then a fast heartbeat, a sigh of relief, or a cry of anguish. Not with video poker! Its predictable gameplay keeps players feeling chilled, as they know the concept and exactly what they need to do to win. Research has shown repetitive tasks are soothing for the brain and can reduce anxiety and stress levels.

In the context of video poker, the simple concept of choosing which cards to hold and withdraw can be applied to most video poker games. Players do not have to think about anything but their cards and drawing the most valuable hand possible, so there is no need to think too hard, just logically.

Online Versus Video Poker Machine

As it stands, there are not many different factors that make online video poker more fun. Logistically, the feeling of playing alone remotely would make online video poker more enjoyable, but it depends on who you ask. The aesthetics and noises from the machines may release dopamine for some people. Poker can be a social game for some, and playing alone at home is not everyone’s idea of relaxation. It’s just down to personal preference!