Double Bonus Poker is one of the most popular poker-based casino games. It was created in the 1990s as an evolution of Jacks or Better video poker. The “double” in the name refers to the doubled payouts given for four of a kind hand and full houses compared to standard poker payout structures. This unique feature helped propel Double Bonus Poker to widespread popularity. Double Bonus Poker is one of the most popular poker-based casino games. While it may look like a simple variation of video poker, double bonus poker offers players a number of unique benefits. In this article, we will explore the top 10 benefits of playing Double Bonus Poker.
- High Payouts for Royal Flushes
One of the biggest draws of Double Bonus Poker is the massive payouts available for achieving the ultimate poker hand – the royal flush. In most Double Bonus Poker games, a royal flush pays out 800 to 1,000 times your initial bet. That means a $1 bet could win you $800-1000 if you’re incredibly lucky enough to be dealt that ultra-rare hand. The chance of getting a royal flush is very slim, but the potential payout makes it extremely exciting when it does happen.
- Double Payouts for Four of a Kinds
Another key difference in Double Bonus Poker is the payout structure for four of a kind hand. In standard poker, four of a kind would win you around 25 times your bet. However, in Double Bonus Poker, four of a kind pay out double – around 50 times your initial wager. This makes four of a kind hands much more valuable compared to other poker variations. The increased payouts make achieving four of a kind an even bigger win for players.
- Double Payouts for Full Houses
Full houses are also paid out at double rates in Double Bonus Poker compared to standard poker games. Where a full house might win 9 times your bet in regular poker, Double Bonus Poker will pay out around 18 times your wager for a full house hand. Again, the doubled payouts increase the excitement and potential profitability of common poker hands like full houses.
- Increased Chances of Winning with Bonus Payouts
One unique feature of Double Bonus Poker is the inclusion of bonus payouts for achieving certain hand combinations, even if they are not winning poker hands. For example, players can win smaller payouts for three or four of a kind, even if that hand does not win the main game. These bonus payouts increase the overall chances of a player winning each round. Rather than only winning on specific poker hand rankings, Double Bonus Poker offers multiple ways to earn a payout on each spin. This keeps players engaged for longer.
- Easy Gameplay Mechanics
While the payout structure is more complex, the actual gameplay of Double Bonus Poker is very straightforward and simple to learn. Players are dealt an initial 5 card hand and can hold any combination of 0-5 cards, just like standard video poker. The replacement cards are then drawn to try and make the best possible hand. Within just a few plays, anyone can understand the basic hold and draw mechanics. This makes Double Bonus Poker accessible for both beginners and experienced poker players.
- Consistent Betting Options
Most Double Bonus Poker games allow players to bet 1-5 coins or credits per hand. Being able to consistently bet the same amounts round after round provides a steady gameplay experience. Players aren’t forced to increase their bets just to keep playing. They can stick with their preferred stake and enjoy the double payouts. The consistent betting also makes it easier to track long term wins and losses.
- Positive Expected Return
One of the biggest advantages of Double Bonus Poker is that it offers players a positive expected return when the game is played perfectly. In other words, a player who always makes the best possible hold and draw decisions will end up winning money over the long run against the house. This is rare among casino games and gives skilled Double Bonus Poker players an edge through optimal strategy and discipline. It’s one of the few games where knowledge and skill can overcome the house edge.
- Strategy and Skill Involved
While luck is still a big factor, Double Bonus Poker involves much more strategy and skill than basic slot machines or table games. Players must understand optimal hold patterns based on their initial cards. They need to calculate odds and make the right draw decisions. Over time, those who learn proper Double Bonus Poker strategy will see their win rates increase. It satisfies the poker player’s need to apply knowledge and decision making, not just rely on pure chance.
- Fast Gameplay Pace
One hand of Double Bonus Poker only takes a few seconds from start to finish. Players can complete dozens of hands per hour, experiencing plenty of excitement in a short period. This fast gameplay keeps the action moving at a quick clip. It prevents the game from becoming stale or boring like some slower poker variants. The speed also means players can try out different strategies more frequently to see what works best.
- Fun and Familiar Poker Theme
For many players, the poker theme of Double Bonus Poker adds an extra layer of enjoyment compared to other casino games. They feel more engaged playing a variation of their favourite card game rather than anonymous slot machine symbols. The familiar poker hand rankings and hold/draw mechanics provide a comfortable framework. Even non-poker players can pick it up easily and still feel like they are playing a poker-style game. The poker theme gives Double Bonus Poker widespread appeal.
Conclusion
Double Bonus Poker has earned its status as a top casino game thanks to huge payouts, positive expected returns, strategic gameplay, and a fun poker theme as per the rules of poker. Its combination of low house edge, fast action, and generous bonuses make it a very rewarding game for both casual and serious players. With so many benefits, it’s no wonder Double Bonus Poker continues to be a favourite for poker fans and casino gamblers worldwide.