Just started playing Video Poker 1 week ago and...

[redmoonseller]

Just started playing Video Poker 1 week ago and i was wondering if i should just let the casinos video poker machines do the holding for me or should i change it a little bit?

[shadowman]

If the casino is holding cards then the payback will be set to something less than optimal. The first thing I would suggest is reading "The Video Poker Edge" by Linda Boyd and "frugal Gambler" by Jean Scott. You may be able to find them at your library. They are must reading for anyone who is serious about VP. Also, feel free to ask any and all questions.

[royal flush]

good answer also practice the different games on this site to see the volitility of the various games and the effect on your bankroll and risk tolerence while not playing for real money

[Eduardo]

Machine holding cards for you?  Is that the "optimal play" that I've seen mentioned? I thought only the simulators did that, didn't know there were machines that did.

[shadowman]

When machines hold cards they are based on providing a set payback to the casino. They are not optimal holds. For example, there are deuces games where you should only hold a single pair when dealt two pair, but these machines will hold both pairs.

[MikeA]

I've only run into a couple of those machines in casinos.  They really irritate me because I know they don't make the correct holds all the time.  It really throws my rhythm off having to clear the holds and then re-hold the cards of my own selection.

[royal flush]

most of these machines are gone