Last Updated on July 1, 2025 by Mary Henderson
Video Poker in Canada
So, you’re a video poker fan, huh?
Telling you from the start, there are lots of video poker casinos in Canada waving shiny bonuses, so it’s tough to know where the real deal is. I mean, some sites really feel stuck in 2006.
I did some digging and put together a list of the best video poker sites for us Canadians. Yep, I’m a fan too, so it’s personal. We’ll look into casinos that are solid for classics like Deuces Wild and Jacks or Better, ones that actually have decent paytables, and platforms where you can score video poker bonuses without reading pages of fine print.
Plus, a bonus from me – a hand-picked list of video poker games to try this season (and a few insider tips on how to score big, cuz it’s possible). Take it from someone who’s worked the pit and also plays online.
And hey, we’re here to make informed decisions, not chase unicorns, eh?
Play Video Poker Online: Top Casino Picks
All listed video poker casinos are legit, licensed, and safe. No shady sites. Now, let’s see what video poker offers they have.
#1 Euro Palace Casino – Top Pick for New Video Poker Games
Yes, this one’s far from being a new kid on the block, but it makes sure you get access to the newest video poker releases.
They’ve got a great collection of video poker casino titles, so you can be sure you’re not gonna run into the same games time after time. The most popular versions here are Aces and Faces, Jacks or Better, Deuces and Joker, and Joker Poker.
#2 JustCasino: Great for Mixing Up Your Video Poker
This one is newer and full of potential, even when it comes to video poker.
While other casinos in Canada limit themselves to a few options only, JustCasino delivers a wide range of video poker versions. Everything’s powered by top providers like KA Gaming, Mascot, and BetSoft.
And games? Say no more: Caribbean Stud Poker, Deuces Wild, Jacks or Better, Aces and Faces, Double Double Bonus, and even Cards or Venus Aces and Faces.
#3 Jackpot City Casino – For Video Poker Fans Who Want It All
Jackpot City’s been around for longer than I can remember. And its video poker casino selection? A must if you want quality gameplay.
You’ll find all the possible variations like Jacks or Better, Bonus Video Poker, Double Bonus Video Poker, Double Double Bonus, Joker Wild, Deuces Wild, Joker Poker, and so on.
Having a hard time choosing? Here’s a sneak peek into the most popular: All Aces Poker, Deuces Wild Bonus Poker, Aces and Faces Poker, and Bonus Poker Deluxe.
By the way, if you’re new, Jackpot City has a mini-guide for getting started in video poker (cool, Jackpot City).
#4 SmokAce Casino – Perfect for Trying Something New
Even if SmokAce Casino has one of the biggest game selections on the market – over 9,000, the video poker casino lobby is kinda small, but you know the saying: quality over quantity.
If you’re ever in the mood for something different, you can visit SmokAce for exclusive options like Lucky Video Poker or Super Video Poker by KA Gaming. You could also try Video Poker by EvoPlay or Video Poker by GameArt.
Want something different? There’s Evolution’s Video Poker Live – a hybrid between classy video poker and live casino, with a real dealer but RNG (computer-generated) gameplay. Or, you could take a look at Video Poker First Person by the same developer.
What’s the Deal with Video Poker Anyway?
Here’s a quick explainer for my new friends here. So yeah, experienced players can skip.
Is Video Poker Any Different from Online/Live Poker?
Actually, yes. You’re not playing against other players, as in classic RNG poker or live poker. In video poker, you’re playing against the machine. So, yes, forget about bluffing or any sort of side-eye from some guy named Rick.
How to Play
No fancy talk, guys. Here’s the real scoop.
- Place your bet (up to 5 coins/credits).
- Wait to be dealt 5 cards.
- Decide which to hold and which to toss.
- New cards will replace those you ditched.
- Win (if your hand matches something on the payout table) or lose.
Common Hand Rankings (Low to High)
Hand | What It Is | Example | Payout Rank |
Jacks or Better | Pair of Jacks, Queens, Kings, or Aces | J♣ J♦ 3♠ 6♣ 10♠ | Lowest |
Two Pair | Two different pairs | 6♠ 6♦ 9♣ 9♥ Q♠ | Small |
Three of a Kind | Three cards of the same rank | 5♠ 5♦ 5♣ 9♠ J♦ | Relatively small |
Straight | Five cards in a row, mixed suits | 4♦ 5♣ 6♠ 7♥ 8♣ | Decent |
Flush | Five cards, same suit | 2♠ 6♠ 9♠ J♠ K♠ | Nice |
Full House | Three of a kind + a pair | Q♦ Q♠ Q♥ 9♦ 9♣ | Solid |
Four of a Kind | Four cards of the same rank | 7♣ 7♦ 7♠ 7♥ K♠ | Big |
Straight Flush | Five cards in a row, same suit | 5♥ 6♥ 7♥ 8♥ 9♥ | Very high |
Royal Flush | 10, J, Q, K, A – same suit | 10♠ J♠ Q♠ K♠ A♠ | Highest |
Why Video Poker’s House Edge Is Super Low
Unlike other casino games, video poker is a strategic game, so using the right strategy cuts down that house edge and ensures a cool return of over 99.5%. Way better than your slot machine, right?
P.S. You’ll see many players, especially on Reddit, say that Deuces Wild (video poker variant), namely the full-pay version, can have a return rate over 100%. Technically, it’s possible, but such outcomes are very rare since most online casinos don’t offer the full-pay version anymore but rather short-pay options with RTPs well below 100%.
Either way, video poker odds are predictable (there are 52 cards with fixed payouts based on your hand). Yes, you can see what each hand pays, especially if you opt for full-pay versions like Jacks or Better.
Video Poker Odds and Payouts
Hand | Odds | 1 Coin | 2 Coins | 3 Coins | 4 Coins | 5 Coins |
Royal Flush | 649,740 to 1 | 250 | 500 | 750 | 1000 | 4000 |
Straight Flush | 72,193 to 1 | 50 | 100 | 150 | 200 | 250 |
Four of a Kind | 4,165 to 1 | 25 | 50 | 75 | 100 | 125 |
Full House | 694 to 1 | 9 | 18 | 27 | 36 | 45 |
Flush | 509 to 1 | 6 | 12 | 18 | 24 | 30 |
Straight | 255 to 1 | 4 | 8 | 12 | 16 | 20 |
Three of a Kind | 47 to 1 | 3 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 15 |
Two Pairs | 21 to 1 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 |
Pair J, Q, K or A | 7.69 to 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
Video Poker MVPs: Don’t Sleep on These
The classy, the newest, and the hidden gems you didn’t know you’d want to play.
#1 Jacks or Better (Microgaming, NetEnt, Playtech)
Classic five-card draw. You should aim for a pair of Jacks or better. The average return rate is 99.54%.
#2 All Aces Poker (Microgaming)
This is a bonus variant, meaning extra bonuses for specific four-of-a-kind hands. It’s high volatility – less often yet bigger payouts, with an RTP (Return to Player) of about 99.92%.
#3 Deuces Wild (Playtech, Microgaming)
Wild card type. All 2s are wild, offering more winning combos. The average return rate is 98.94%.
#4 Double Bonus Poker (Playtech, Microgaming)
Another bonus variant. High variance and extra bonuses on specific hands of four of a kind. Average RTP? Around 98.98%.
#5 Aces and Faces (Microgaming)
Also a bonus version. You’ll get extra payouts on four of a kind Aces or face cards and a return rate of about 99.26%.
#6 Aces and Eights (Microgaming)
Guess what! Another bonus variation. It pays extra for four of a kind 7s, Aces, or 8s. Plus, the RTP is crazily high – 99.78%.
#7 Joker Poker (Playtech, Microgaming)
Wild card type. One Joker acts as a wild card, meaning higher payouts for natural hands. The RTP is pretty good, up to 98.60%.
#8 Double Double Bonus (Playtech, Microgaming)
Right, it’s another bonus video poker variation. It features extra bonuses for specific four-of-a-kind hands. Expect rare but big payouts, with a return rate of about 98.98%.
#9 Tens or Better (Microgaming)
Oh, that’s a classic. It pays on a pair of tens or better. Straightforward gameplay and great RTP – about 99.14%.
#10 Split Way Royal (IGT)
Drum beats … This one is a jackpot variant with two separate royal flushes. The RTP varies, but this video poker option has high payout potential.
What Bonuses Actually Matter for Video Poker?
Deposit matches? Cashback? What to watch for?
Welcome Bonuses: Technically, you can snag one when you make a first deposit, but video poker often counts 5% or less. At least, look for low wagering requirements.
No Deposit Bonuses: Something like free credits to play with – no deposit needed. Video poker can be included, but make sure to check it in the game restrictions.
Cashback: Now we’re talking. If you want a bit of insurance, you’ll like it. It usually works for all games, returning you part of your losses over a set period of time.
Reload Bonuses: Best for regulars topping up. Like before, make sure video poker is part of the deal (hello, terms and conditions).
Game-Specific Bonuses: Occasionally, a video poker casino can roll out bonuses for these games, something like coin drops or loyalty points. Either check the promo page or opt in for promo emails.
VIP Rewards: If you play video poker a lot, you could be paid off. Sure, video poker may earn you fewer points (than slots, for instance), but still adds up.
Final Word: Tips to Boost Your Odds (Without a Math Degree)
You’ve got the places, you’ve got the games. Now, how do you actually score big?
First, stick with high RTP video poker games (full pay variations). Know your paytables in advance. Brush up on basic strategy (no shame in having a cheat sheet up your sleeve). You can even start with the free version to practice. When ready, don’t forget to set limits before you play, not mid-spin.
Remember, friends, there’s no magic formula. There’s smart play.
Catch ya next time.
FAQ
Which video poker variant has the best odds?
Jacks or Better with a full pay system has one of the best odds, with a return rate around 99.54%. You can also check All Aces Poker - it can hit an RTP of about 99.92% when played right.
Can I play video poker games for free in Canada?
Absolutely. Most video poker casinos in Canada let you play in demo mode. Perfect to learn the game and practice strategies before you’re ready to play for real cash.
How do I pick a legit video poker site?
Simple. Stick to licensed sites only (Curacao, MGA, Kahnawake). Also, look for SSL encryption and fair pay certifications, such as eCOGRA. Look for solid reviews from real players, check for Canadian-friendly payment options, and make sure games are provided by reputable developers.
Are video poker games fair?
Yes, as long as you play on a licensed site, where video poker games run on RNG (random Number Generator), so every hand is unpredictable.
What’s the difference between regular and video poker?
Unlike regular online or live poker, you play solo, against the machine, in video poker. It’s simpler, faster, and more about strategy (no bluffing).
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