There are three basic types of video poker machines:

* Jacks or Better

* Deuces Wild

* Jokers Wild

To keep things basic, we recommend you play only the Jacks or Better machines. The payouts are usually better and the draw strategy is more straightforward.

What you're really looking for is a Jacks or Better machine with a good payout schedule. The best payout schedule pays 9 to 1 for full house and 6 to 1 for a flush. In gambler's terms, this is called a "9-6" machine, for obvious reasons. Several years ago, you could find several of these in most casinos, but they are now very hard to find because of the favorable (to you, not the house!) payout schedule.

Frequently, the best payout you'll be able to find is the next best one, which pays 8 to 1 for a full house and 5 to 1 for a flush. However, this is a good payout schedule if it's also a "four-of-a-kind" bonus machine. A bonus machine pays extra odds for hitting four-a- kind for certain cards, such as 2s, 3s, or 4s, or three other cards. The payout schedule has this information, so be sure to read the payout schedule carefully before you play any machine.

Be sure to avoid machines that only pay 1 to 1 for two pairs. This should be the payout for a single pair of jacks or better. Two pair should pay 2 to 1. You money will go much faster if two pairs pays only 1 to 1.

Look for these payout schedules and you'll be playing with house edge against you of 1 or 2% - some of the best odds in the casino.

Good luck!

Tom is the webmaster at http://www.blackjack-for-everyone.com, which is a website dedicated to turning beginning Blackjack players into serious recreational players.

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