I want to play video poker online…but it seems I can’t.

Happy Friday! It’s a gloomy rainy afternoon where I am, so I decided to enjoy some fine times at the online casino today. After playing a few online slots (Starburst and Sweet Alchemy – two of my faves) I decided maybe I’d try my hand at online video poker.

PlayOJO Ontario doesn’t have video poker

I searched for video poker games and – to my surprise (and disappointment) – I couldn’t find a single game at PlayOJO (where I currently play).

In fact, not only is video poker not offered there, but as I write this post (Jan 26), there are only 7(!) poker options that show up when I search for “Poker” on PlayOJO.ca (see screenshot below).

Also, the small number of poker options they do have is limited to the live casino, which means I can’t even play (or practice for free) any RNG-based poker games. What’s up with that?

Mental note to Mia: If you do make good on your 2024 goal of trying another Ontario online casino, make sure it’s got video poker or RNG poker games in general. Thanks, Mia.

Why do I want to play video poker online?

I enjoy playing video poker machines when I visit land-based casinos in Ontario. Since I can’t always (and don’t always want to) visit a brick-and-motor, playing online is the next best thing.

But why do I want to play it? I like that video poker is typically based on 5-card draw poker, which is my favourite version of the game. I also like that it’s RNG (random number generator)-based, so I can play comfortably at my own pace.

What is video poker?

In case the term “video poker” is new to you, essentially, it’s a casino game based on 5-card draw poker that is run by a computer and played on a video machine.

Similar to slots, the game is played on a computerized console machine with buttons you use to place your bets, start a game, draw cards, or hold the cards in your hand. The objective is make the best 5-card poker hand that matches one of the game’s winning combinations. For example, if you’re playing Jacks or Better (my typical go-to variant), you need to get a pair of Jacks or a higher hand value (based on traditional hand-ranking poker hands), with the Royal Flush typically giving the highest payout.

So, the major difference between video poker, traditional online poker, and live poker is:

• Video poker is a solitary game played on a machine run by a computer.
• Online poker is played against other players in a poker room.
• Live poker is played against the dealer.

Different types of video poker games

The other cool thing I really like about video poker is that there are several variants, including both single and multi-hand versions of some of the games.

Popular examples of video poker games include: Jacks or Better, Tens or Better, Deuces Wilds, Aces and Faces, Joker Poker, Double Bonus Poker, and Double Double Bonus Poker.

Do you like video poker?

What about you? Are you a fan of video poker? If so, how many variants have you tried and what’s your favourite game to play?

Also, if you’re an Ontario online casino player, I’d love recommendations for online casinos where I could play real money video poker. The more game variety the better. 😁

Until next time, good luck, have fun, and enjoy your weekend!

Mia 👩‍💻

*All links and images in this post are for informational purposes only. I am not affiliated with PlayOJO or OnlineGambling.ca.