History of Video Poker
| Updated: Tracing Back the Evolution of Video Poker
Video poker is easily one of the most lucrative gambling games available, as it offers generous payout percentages and a low house edge with which few other casino games can compete. However, the earliest prototypes of video poker machines differed significantly from the modern online variations we know and love today.
The game has undergone numerous changes over the years, and we cover them all in the following article. Stick with us as we trace the history of video poker from its earliest days to the present, and introduce you to the key figures and game suppliers who have shaped its impressive evolution.
The Important Role of Si Redd
William Redd, commonly known as Si Redd, is a key figure in video poker history and has greatly contributed to the game’s development. He is often described as one of the most innovative people in the gaming world and deserves credit for completely transforming classic video poker machines.
Back in 1975, he founded SIRCOMA, a company that was renamed the following year to IGT (short for International Game Technology), in an attempt to create the most exciting video poker machine. Mr. Redd had always been passionate about games, and before conceiving the idea of developing video poker he had worked in the gaming industry for a considerable time. His desire to be innovative and different enabled him to create a video poker machine that went on to become one of the gaming industry’s best inventions.
Origins and Evolution of the Video Poker Machine
It is believed that video poker machines were first introduced in brick-and-mortar casinos in the 1970s. In brief, early video poker machines closely resembled slot machines, the chief difference being that the former used playing cards instead of symbols. Another factor that greatly contributed to the growing popularity of video poker was the launch of personal computers. Video poker machines consisted of two essential components: a television screen and a computer chip.
When the first machine was invented, it had many flaws and was rather primitive, especially compared to the cutting-edge devices we use today. It all started in 1970, when Dale Electronics created the first device for playing video poker. This unique machine became known as PokerMatic. While groundbreaking, it failed to gain much popularity at the time and required further tweaking to appeal to players. Nevertheless, it paved the way for the evolution of video poker machines and greatly contributed to the exciting game we know today.
One of the most notable years for video poker was 1979, when SIRCOMA introduced a new DrawPoker machine. This new breed of video poker appealed to a vast number of players, offering fresh opportunities and an improved gaming experience. Many players considered this machine more credible than other similar devices available at the time.
During the 1980s, both slots and video poker became favorites among players. People enjoyed video poker because it combined skill and luck. Back in the day, games that required considerable strategy could put players off as they seemed too complicated, while those based entirely on luck left gamblers feeling powerless to influence the outcome. Video poker managed to strike a fine balance between luck and strategy. The game offered thrills while allowing gamblers to put their skills to the test and try their luck.
The Important Role of Microgaming
In 1994, software provider Microgaming launched the world’s first online casino. This innovation had a huge impact on the development of video poker within the online gambling industry. The now-renowned developer released a range of video poker games boasting new features, fresh design elements, textures, and vibrant colors. This allowed players to enjoy their favorite video poker variations from the comfort of their homes while experiencing a new level of excitement.
When it comes to the evolution of video poker, Microgaming undoubtedly played a crucial role because it made the game even more enticing. Many players began to embrace video poker, and as a result the games became widely accepted across the globe. Nowadays, a number of online casinos have teamed up with this prominent software supplier in an effort to provide players with high-quality online games, including video poker. Most online casinos also offer free applications that can be downloaded easily from official app stores like Google Play. It is now possible to play video poker with improved graphics and performance, and to enjoy it even while on the move.
Online Video Poker
The Internet made it possible for a wide range of exciting games to be played online. Video poker is no exception, and today it can be found in almost every online casino. Shortly after its introduction online, it gained popularity and quickly became one of the all-time casino classics.
Its online incarnation appeals to many players worldwide because it offers numerous advantages. You can play multiple hands simultaneously and win from the comfort of your own surroundings. It is no longer necessary to deal with the noise and distractions of brick-and-mortar casinos. Players living in remote areas no longer have to travel to enjoy video poker. It is extremely easy to play, as time and location are no longer barriers. Video poker has evolved to an entirely new level, enabling casino enthusiasts to experience the game in a fresh light.
Nowadays, poker enthusiasts can enjoy the game from virtually any part of the world. It has never been so accessible or effortless to obtain top-tier entertainment, whether you prefer classic video poker or one of its exciting variations online. Thanks to cutting-edge technologies, players can experience video poker with outstanding quality and graphics. They can also win big by playing progressive video poker.
Modern Video Poker
The video poker games available today fascinate players with their vast diversity and outstanding quality. Online casinos offer a number of interesting variations that feature exciting bonuses and deals. There are options for every taste and preference. However, players should always take their time to consider the additional rules and the house edge before playing any video poker variation for real money.
Players can explore numerous variations and experiment with single- or multi-hand formats. Throughout the years, the rules of the game have also undergone some major changes. For instance, Nevada casinos initially used a single deck of 52 cards but later introduced machines with different deck configurations. This countermeasure was introduced to combat the so-called “reverse engineering” mechanism used to identify hidden cards. Video poker has now become one of the most-played online games, and as such, it will undoubtedly continue to evolve in the future.
Conclusion
When video poker first appeared, its future did not look bright. A number of improvements were introduced over the years, increasing the game’s appeal among gamblers. The evolution of video poker is closely connected to the history of slots, as the two share several similarities. The history of video poker draws the attention of many avid players, as the game has undergone various transformations over the years. Now, thanks to mobile technologies, it is possible to play video poker both from the comfort of your home and while on the go.