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Video poker’s rise to prominence came in the 1980s, but it remains popular online in casinos today. Whether it is because of nostalgia, or new technological innovations, there is no doubt that video poker machines have revolutionized the gambling industry.
The devices and online games offer a unique visual way of play. The unique visuals as well as the attractive offer of playing video poker with larger payouts have attracted more players than ever before. But don’t think that the only way to play card games is for money. There are plenty of free games as well for just having fun, so keep this in mind.
Poker itself with all its different variations is a game of skill, luck, and strategy. It doesn’t matter if you are playing with others or alone, there is still a psychological element in each game. Evidently, strategy is key for winning big in poker, but psychology also has a positive effect on one’s poker game.
With traditional video poker machines, the psychological advantage is a greater feeling of control because players can select which cards they want to draw or hold onto. Players must understand that to succeed in online poker, they still need to consider the value of each card hand, so the aim is similar to that of traditional video poker.
The game has many mental benefits due to player involvement that will be covered in this article.
Improved Analytical and Mathematical Skills
Video poker offers a high return rate to the player, but there is still an element of probability in it that players should consider when they play. Playing video poker frequently whether it is online or in a casino can help one to improve their analytical and mathematical skills when calculating odds. It is low-risk compared to other casino games, so progressive play with video poker can be beneficial as a “no harm, no foul” kind of game!
Logical thinking through the element of control
By offering card selection, video poker games give players a sense of control over their game. There is debate around whether video poker is controlled by the players or the game, but if the player thinks they have the upper hand, it can be beneficial for their mind, because they can make logic-based decisions based on the information that is in front of them. A study of students in 2007 indicated when they were presented with two options for playing video poker, most participants preferred the game where they could select their own cards rather than one where the computer does it for them.
From this study, it’s obvious at least for a large group of people the element of control that players have can help improve their game and strategy because their method of play and their rules are self-generated.
Impulse Control Management
For some, poker games can be repetitive and tempting to play for long periods of time, because of the risk versus reward concept. With video poker, it is different as there are many outcomes, rather than random ones like slot or table games, which are dependent on other players. When playing video poker online, players must consider the outcomes which can occur if they choose to keep or relinquish their cards. Multiple outcomes stop players from being impulsive as they are encouraged to wait longer to consider their decisions.
With added practice, this can be beneficial to help one manage impulsive gambling tendencies if necessary. Players can apply this mindset before making decisions as it will help them to take a step back to consider possible outcomes of important life decisions.
Emotional Resilience
While we know video poker outcomes can be changed, this can work against or in the player’s favor. Putting control into the player’s hand (no pun intended) means if they receive a payout or not, it is down to their decision-making.
The chance of positive reinforcement that the brain will generate is high in video poker due to a high win probability. Although, as there is still a chance of losing the game, players become emotionally resilient after sustaining both wins and losses.
In other words, video poker prohibits players from becoming complacent in their choices and just expecting a win, regardless if they are playing online or not. This method is known as operant conditioning. Video poker holds players accountable for their choices, whereas, in other card games, it is easy for them to internally blame their opponent’s strategy or external factors for their losses.
Improved Attention Span
Video poker is a game for those who love progressive gameplay as it is much slower than your average card game, so a good attention span is required in order to concentrate on the screen and the cards. The game operates at the pace which the player chooses so it can be tailored to their attention span. Players can choose to play for a bit longer each time and build up their video poker skills. As the player is able to play competently for longer, they can start to branch out and make bolder decisions where their cards are concerned.
As a result, the player will likely be blessed with higher payouts which enable them to build up a high bankroll.