Video Poker reference library

Bonus Poker Variants

Compare Bonus Poker, Double Bonus, and Double Double Bonus without treating them as one strategy.

Bottom line: Higher four-of-a-kind awards are funded by reductions elsewhere. The return and correct holds depend on the complete table.

Bonus Poker

Bonus Poker separates four aces, low quads, and high quads into different awards while remaining relatively close to Jacks or Better in structure.

A familiar-looking 8/5 or 7/5 label is not sufficient; inspect every quad category and the royal treatment.

Double Bonus

Double Bonus raises four-of-a-kind value further and may change full-house, flush, or two-pair payouts. Strategy can favor quad potential more aggressively.

Different published tables share the same name, so attach returns only to a complete schedule.

Double Double Bonus

Kicker bonuses make specific four-of-a-kind plus kicker combinations especially valuable. Correct strategy sometimes keeps a kicker with three or four relevant cards.

Those decisions do not apply to ordinary Bonus Poker or Double Bonus.

Variance

Concentrating return in rare quads increases volatility even when theoretical return is competitive. A bankroll sized for Jacks or Better may experience sharper swings.

Compare both expected return and distribution rather than choosing solely by the largest top payout.

Practical checklist

  • Name exact variant
  • Copy complete pay table
  • Identify kicker awards
  • Use variant-specific strategy
  • Compare volatility as well as return
Scope and review

Rules, probabilities, and payouts apply only to the model stated on this page. Posted casino rules control when they differ. Last reviewed September 20, 2026.