Video Poker-Optimum Play

However, Paymar explains the concept in a clear, non-technical way while still conceding that NOBODY can play perfectly according to expected value. I went from just having blind faith in expected value to accepting it as fact.

He goes on to provide sound strategies for virtually every form of video poker.

I've been playing almost nothing but video poker in casinos for over a year (I've pretty much given up on slots) and, while I often came out ahead, I had never gotten a royal flush. A couple of months after reading this book, I hit one. Sure, luck was involved, but I credit this book with helping me maintain the discipline to play correctly.


Useful if you want to play video poker.   March 9, 2002
 35 out of 38 found this review helpful

I purchased this book because I saw a TV show that said "Video poker can be beat". I found this hard to believe but it is apparently true on some machines with perfect play. Ah, there is the rub. Along with the book I bought a computer program that teaches you how to play and shows you each error you make. It isn't real hard to learn how to play perfectly but requires a person that can really keep focused for hours on end. Most folks with the intellect to learn this could make much more money doing something (anything ?) else but if you have to gamble this is your best shot. This book with Frugal Gambler and some real effort will make your Vegas trips more fun. I don't think Vegas casinos enjoy losing so I wonder how long this will last ?


Excellent book for all level of players   October 26, 2001
 15 out of 16 found this review helpful

Great coverage of probability and numbers behind the game.
Easy to follow rules that are much shorter than anything out there with very very very little dropoff in expected return. I highly recommend this book.


A sound foundation for VP play   August 14, 2001
 9 out of 10 found this review helpful

If you are learning to play the game, or want to learn a new version of VP, this is a great place to start. Good explanations as to the "why's" of the correct plays, and sound strategies for many common games.


Simply indispensable   December 9, 2000
 11 out of 13 found this review helpful

My dog-eared copy is the first book I ever bought on Video Poker and it remains the most comprehensive guide available.