Did you know that the first video poker machines appeared in the 1970s and gained massive popularity in the 1980s? There is no doubt that some of these games have complex mechanics, even by today’s standards. However, modern players prefer playing online.
As with other online casino games, video poker became available to computer users in the mid-1990s on the few casino sites that emerged at the time. About a decade later, we witnessed the emergence of mobile casinos and video poker titles that can be played on the go.
However, if you think this stops the development of this type of casino game, then you are wrong. Experts agree that new technology will affect this field in multiple ways. In our article, we deal with this interesting topic.
Artificial Intelligence
Although artificial intelligence (AI) has been a buzzword for several years, people often forget this simulation of human intelligence can find an actual application in video poker with the help of computers and similar machines.
Unlike other types of poker, such as Texas Hold’em, where you play against other players or against the house, in video poker, the goal is to put together a winning combination on the payout table. However, that doesn’t mean you don’t need strategy and tactics to win more often.
With the help of AI, virtual coaches can be created to analyze your gameplay. With the detailed analysis, they will reveal your weaknesses and suggest optimal moves. Of course, video poker is basically a game of luck, but a strategic approach always increases your chances of success.
In addition, since there are many different variants of video poker, after some time, the AI can suggest that you choose the variant that best suits your playing style and your budget.
Cryptocurrency and Blockchain
Another trend in technology gaining momentum is using cryptocurrencies supported by blockchain technology. These two things may not be the first things that come to mind when someone mentions the future of video poker, but believe us, they have huge potential in this sector.
Video poker, which blends elements of slot machines and five-card draw poker, is particularly well-suited for cryptocurrency integration. The game’s digital nature aligns seamlessly with blockchain technology, offering new possibilities for players and operators alike.
Of course, the most significant impact is on payments and transactions, something that some casinos that offer popular online video poker games have already started to apply. Namely, cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology promise much faster and cheaper deposits and withdrawals. These transactions are usually completed in less than a minute and incur minimal fees.
Additionally, crypto brings enhanced security and supports your anonymity and privacy to some extent. This is excellent news for those concerned about the dangers of online activities.
We can expect more video poker games that fall into the provably fair games category. Blockchain technology can help create these games whose random results are verified by the players.
On the other hand, potential limitations of cryptocurrencies, such as their volatility, specific regulation in some countries, and their acceptance, should also be considered.
Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality
Although not focused strictly on video poker, virtual reality has the potential to revolutionize the online gambling scene and, thus, this type of game. For now, experiments are being done with VR casinos where players, with the help of VR headsets, can experience something completely different and more realistic from the comfort of their homes.
With VR casinos, you can enter virtual gambling halls and play video poker on classic machines. Of course, they will give you greater socialization through voice chats, gestures, virtual emoticons, and more.
On the other hand, we have augmented reality, which, although it cannot be applied to that extent in online casinos and video poker, can still improve your gaming experience. For example, engineers are developing AR overlays that will show you the optimal moves based on your current combination of cards. You can see it while holding your tablet or smartphone in your hand.
As in the case of cryptocurrencies, in this case, the technology faces certain limitations. VR headsets are costly and not affordable for everyone. Also, some casinos may restrict the use of AR when playing video poker or other games. This is logical because, with this technology, players can gain an unfair advantage over the casinos.
Live Streaming
Live streaming is not one of those things that we can theorize about what effect it will have on video poker in the near future. This activity has already gained massive popularity in the online gambling community.
However, it is a fact that currently, the largest number of streamers are focused on online slots. It is expected that after saturation in this niche, some will reorient to other categories, such as video pocket.
Live streams can perfectly capture the excitement of video poker. Watching experienced players and fun streamers play can increase interest in the game and teach newbies how to approach video poker correctly.
The good news is that in the future, you can expect more interactive features that some platforms can offer, such as playing video poker together, participating in surveys, and being able to tip streamers.
