You may think we’re crazy for comparing one of life’s greatest forms of entertainment with real-life scenarios – but video poker does mimic the decisions we make in our everyday lives. There is a strategic overlap between the two, where poker’s decision-making and thought processes reflect the feelings of our everyday lives. Video poker is a pastime where chance and skill are combined to create a fulfilling game – and it really does provide valuable insights into our everyday decisions.
From life-altering choices to small, simple decisions, we’re going to be taking a look at how poker and decision-making intersect for all facets of life. We’re going to be drawing links between the two, and looking at how the psychology behind decision-making isn’t just for one specific aspect of our lives. Whether you’re a poker pro, or just like to dabble sometimes at the weekend – this blog is here to enlighten you about your choices and the way in which you act even beyond the cards. Tech is exploding in a huge range of ways at the moment – just check out what’s going on with AI readers for evidence of this – and you can definitely use it to your advantage.
First things first, what is video poker?
Before we jump into the ins and outs of all things psychology and our reactions, it’s best we get clued up on the way of the game. Video poker is available on some of the best online casinos, and it mixes the fun of the slot machines with the strategic parts of the traditional poker we know and love. It appeals to both newbies and pros and recreates the true sensation of heading to a physical casino. The global market for video poker machines stood at US$ 21.61 billion in 2023, proving that this ever-growing industry really is going to stay.
So, what are the basics?
Video poker is often played on an online console or mobile, and it involves the player placing a bet and pressing the “deal” button. They are then given five cards from the regular 52-deck, and the gamer aims to use decision-making and chance to get the best possible poker hand. You hold on to the best cards and discard anything that doesn’t do your hand justice. With every draw when you play video poker games, your hand should either stay the same or get better – and it all depends on you and your choices. It really is that simple!
This type of poker, like them all, comes with its own rules and structures. Here are the most popular types of video poker:
- Jacks or Better: The minimum winning hand is a pair of Jacks.
- Deuces Wild: All four 2s (known as deuces) act as wild cards, enhancing the chances of forming winning hands.
- Double Bonus Poker: Offers bonus payouts for specific four-of-a-kind hands, such as Aces.
Now, how does this fun game relate to real life?
1) Assessing risks
During a game of poker, the player is constantly assessing the risks and outcomes associated with the hand that they are holding. They need to think about the probabilities and the potential reward before making a decision. In life, we have to do this daily. From financial investments to even thinking about whether to take a job opportunity or continue a relationship – it’s everywhere. We as individuals constantly go through the assessment of risk and reward and calculate the result before it happens. Of course, we can never be 100% about our return, but that’s all about the risk. Playing poker can help you practice making informed decisions – that goes for video poker too.
2) Probabilities
Just like in video poker, where you need to calculate the probability of each hand – you do this in real life without ever even thinking about it. You calculate the odds of drawing a strong hand based on what’s left in the deck, just as individuals assess real-life scenarios based on the information available. Gauging the probability of life’s issues or opportunities helps you make rational decisions.
3) Benefits and drawbacks
Video poker players weigh up the potential benefits of whether they should hold onto a specific card or not. You face the risk of keeping the card and not receiving a better one – but that’s all part of the game, and at least your hand won’t get worse. Everyday decisions mimic these sensations, as you’re constantly battling between long-term wins and short-term gains. Do you want to make a quick amount of money, or wait longer for your high-yield investment? It’s the same process that you would use in poker. You need a balanced approach, with a sensible overview that has broad objectives and an ability to look at the bigger picture.
Successful poker stars are great at knowing when to take calculated risks for a chance of higher rewards – which can be compared to financial advisors or investors when they are thinking about investing funds. You need to look at the bigger picture, but at the end of the day, every decision, no matter what you are doing, has some serious psychology behind it.
Dilawar Mughal is an accomplished author with a passion for storytelling. His works span various genres, from thrilling mysteries to heartfelt romance novels. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for character development, Dilawar weaves engaging narratives that captivate readers and transport them to new worlds.