PickSmartly Review

Best Video Poker Books in 2026

9.5 PM Score
Products Evaluated
2
Reviews Analyzed
11
Brands Ranked
2
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Video poker is often misunderstood as a game of pure luck, but for the dedicated player, it is a game of mathematical precision and disciplined execution. Unlike traditional table poker, which relies heavily on psychological reads and bluffing, video poker is a battle against the house edge. To win consistently, you must master the optimal strategy for specific machine variations. This is where high-quality video poker books become essential tools. A well-written guide serves as your strategic roadmap, helping you transition from a recreational player to a mathematically sound strategist who understands how to maximize return-to-player (RTP) percentages.

Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for Video Poker Books

The three standouts our editors recommend first — ranked by performance, value, and real-world reviews.

#3

Million Dollar Video Poker

HUNTINGTON PRESS 6.12 X 0.58 X 8.52 Inches 0.75 Pounds

Reviews for HUNTINGTON PRESS (PM Score)

8.9 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • written by the world’s foremost video poker expert
  • a fascinating glimpse into the high-roller video poker world
  • the narrative/autobiographical format conveys a page-turning story that includes solid strategies for beating video poker
  • the million dollars in the title came in only six years of expert play
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Huntington Press 6.04 No No No

Mattel Big Screen Poker

Mattel Big Screen Poker Game

MATTEL I6003 1.50 X 7.60 X 10.40 Inches 0.60 Pounds

Reviews for MATTEL (PM Score)

6.3 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Multiple betting options
  • Three ways to play: Draw, Deuces and Low Ball
  • Larger screen and cards for easier viewing
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
HopeLeadsToFaith 8.44 Yes Yes Yes

Mattel Big Screen Poker turns any living room into a high-stakes casino floor with its impressively oversized display. I found that the larger screen and expanded card visuals make a massive difference during gameplay, ensuring everyone at the table can actually see the hands being dealt without squinting. It isn't just a single-mode toy. You can switch between Draw, Deuces, and Low Ball to keep the energy shifting. The inclusion of multiple betting options adds a layer of strategic depth that you don't usually find in standard tabletop games. Whether you are playing a quick round or a long session, the enhanced visibility keeps the focus on the fun rather than the struggle to read the cards.

What We Like
Large digital screen
Three game modes
Multiple betting options
Oversized playing cards
Varied gameplay styles
#13

Video Poker Heaven: A Practical Guide To Discovering Video Poker Games You Will Love Along With Helpful Tips To Improve Your Play

6.00 X 0.43 X 9.00 Inches

Reviews for (PM Score)

5.2 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes
#16

Mastering Joker Wild Video Poker: How to Play As an Expert and Walk Away a Winner

Mastering Joker Wild Video Poker Strategy Guide

5.50 X 0.50 X 8.50 Inches 0.50 Pounds

Reviews for (PM Score)

5.1 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Games & Puzzles
  • Gambling
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Most people walk into a casino thinking video poker is just a game of luck, but this guide proves it is actually a game of math. Mastering Joker Wild Video Poker shifts the focus from blind guessing to calculated decision-making, teaching you how to navigate the specific complexities of Joker-based hands. I found that the text breaks down the mechanics of the game in a way that feels less like a dry textbook and more like a strategic playbook for a high-stakes match. Instead of just learning the rules, you are learning how to spot the optimal moves that separate casual players from those who actually know how to manage their bankroll. It is a compact, focused resource for anyone looking to sharpen their gambling edge in the games and puzzles category.

What We Like
Expert strategy guide
Gambling skill building
Joker Wild mechanics
Winning tactics
#17

Video Poker Volatility: Understanding Volatility In Video Poker And How To Use It To Your Advantage (Video Poker Heaven)

6.00 X 0.27 X 9.00 Inches

Reviews for (PM Score)

4.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes
#18

Video Poker: Optimum Play

Conjelco Video Poker: Optimum Play Guide

BRAND: CONJELCO 5.50 X 0.70 X 8.25 Inches 0.70 Pounds

Reviews for BRAND: CONJELCO (PM Score)

4.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Used Book in Good Condition
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
ThriftBooks-Dallas 9.87 No No No

Conjelco's Video Poker: Optimum Play stands as an essential manual for any card enthusiast looking to sharpen their strategic edge. This isn't just a casual read. It is a focused instructional tool designed to help you navigate the complexities of video poker math and decision-making. Since this is a used copy, you can expect a well-loved but functional guide that maintains good condition despite previous ownership. At just over eight dollars, it offers a surprisingly low barrier to entry for anyone serious about mastering the game's nuances. It is a practical, no-nonsense resource that delivers concentrated knowledge without the fluff of more expensive, modern gaming textbooks.

What We Like
Strategic gaming guide
Good used condition
Optimum play tactics
Compact instructional book
#19

Fundamentals of Video Poker

Fundamentals of Video Poker by Two Plus Two Pub

TWO PLUS TWO PUB. 5.50 X 0.18 X 8.50 Inches 0.28 Pounds
  • Used Book in Good Condition
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Two Plus Two Pub offers a specialized instructional guide in this essential book for anyone looking to master the mechanics of video poker. While this specific copy is a used book, it arrives in good condition and serves as a highly accessible entry point for players wanting to move beyond guesswork. At a budget-friendly price point, it provides a solid foundation for understanding the strategic nuances of the game without the heavy investment usually required for niche gambling literature. It feels less like a textbook and more like a practical roadmap for the casino floor. If you are hunting for a cost-effective way to sharpen your skills, this manual delivers the core concepts you need to play more intelligently.

What We Like
Good used condition
Core strategic concepts
Budget-friendly guide
Instructional poker manual
#20

Win At Video Poker: The Guide To Beating The Poker Machines

5.40 X 0.43 X 8.28 Inches 0.50 Pounds

Reviews for (PM Score)

4.5 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Hippo Books 9.95 No No No
#22

Sex, Lies, And Video Poker: An Erotic Novel About Gamblling

Sex, Lies, And Video Poker Erotic Novel

BRAND: COMPTON DANCER PUB 5.50 X 0.75 X 8.25 Inches 0.88 Pounds
  • Used Book in Good Condition
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
ThriftBooks-Dallas 9.88 No No No

Sex, Lies, And Video Poker delivers a provocative blend of high-stakes gambling and intense eroticism. This Compton Dancer Pub release is a perfect pick for readers who want to dive into a narrative where the tension at the card table is matched only by the heat between the characters. Since this is a used copy, I was pleased to find it in good condition, making it an easy, budget-friendly addition to any adult fiction collection. It hits that specific niche of genre fiction where risk-taking and romance collide seamlessly. If you are looking for a quick, steamy escape that keeps you guessing about the next big win or the next big betrayal, this title certainly delivers the atmosphere you crave.

What We Like
Good used condition
Erotic gambling themes
Provocative storytelling
Compact novel format
#24

Professional Video Poker

Professional Video Poker by Pi Yee Press

BRAND: PI YEE PRESS 5.75 X 0.50 X 8.50 Inches 0.42 Pounds
  • Used Book in Good Condition
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Orion LLC 9.85 No No No

Serious strategy enthusiasts and gambling math nerds need this Pi Yee Press guide in their library immediately. This isn't some glossy, superficial coffee table book. It is a functional, used resource designed for those who want to dive deep into the mechanics of video poker. I found the copy to be in good condition, which is a massive plus for a used title, ensuring the pages are crisp and easy to navigate during study sessions. At just under six dollars, it offers an incredibly low barrier to entry for anyone looking to sharpen their gaming edge without breaking the bank. It is a straightforward, no-nonsense addition to any collection focused on gaming theory.

What We Like
Good used condition
Strategic gaming guide
Affordable price point
Pi Yee Press edition
Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting the Best Video Poker Books

A Guide to Selecting the Best Video Poker Books

Identify the Specific Game Variation

The most critical mistake a novice makes is buying a general poker strategy book and applying it to every machine they encounter. Video poker is not a monolith. The optimal strategy for 'Jacks or Better' is fundamentally different from 'Deuces Wild,' 'Double Bonus,' or 'Joker Poker.' When browsing books, ensure the content is specifically tailored to the variant you intend to play. A book focusing on 'Full Pay' machines will offer different mathematical insights than one focused on standard casino floor machines. If you are a specialist, look for niche titles that dive deep into specific high-volatility variants.

Mathematical Depth vs. Practical Application

Decide whether you want a theoretical textbook or a practical field manual. Some books are written for the mathematician, focusing heavily on combinatorial analysis, probability distributions, and the derivation of expected value. These are excellent for understanding the 'why' behind the moves. Other books are designed for the player sitting at the machine, offering quick-reference charts, simplified decision trees, and 'cheat sheets' that can be memorized for rapid play. If you are a beginner, prioritize books that bridge the gap between complex math and actionable play. If you are an advanced player, look for texts that explore advanced concepts like coin-in management and bankroll volatility.

Quality of Strategy Charts and Visual Aids

In video poker, a single wrong decision can swing the house edge by several percentage points. Therefore, the clarity of the instructional material is paramount. Look for books that utilize high-resolution diagrams, clear decision matrices, and easy-to-read strategy tables. A book that relies solely on dense walls of text will be difficult to use for study. The best guides use visual cues to help you internalize patterns—such as when to hold a low pair versus chasing a four-card flush—allowing for the split-second decision-making required during live play.

Bankroll Management and Discipline

A superior video poker book does more than just tell you which cards to hold. It teaches you how to play the long game. Mathematics can give you the edge, but poor money management will still result in a bust. Seek out authors who include dedicated sections on bankroll theory, variance, and the psychological discipline required to stick to a strategy during a losing streak. A comprehensive guide should treat video poker as a holistic endeavor involving both optimal play and rigorous financial control.

Ready to choose?

Jump back to our ranked picks or compare the shortlist side by side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Video Poker Books before you buy.

While you don't need to be a mathematician, a solid grasp of basic probability and expected value is essential. The best books teach you how to calculate these values quickly at the machine.

These books are designed to improve your decision-making and strategy. While they cannot guarantee wins due to the inherent house edge, they help you minimize losses and maximize your chances of hitting high-payout hands.

Strategy books focus on specific 'if-this-then-that' moves for various machine variants, while theory books dive into the mathematical logic and probability models that drive the game.

Yes, many top-rated guides are written specifically to take a novice from zero knowledge to understanding basic paytables and optimal play patterns.

The best guides categorize instruction by game type, such as Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, and Double Bonus, as the optimal strategy changes significantly between them.

No book can overcome a mathematically disadvantaged paytable. However, a good book will teach you how to identify which machines offer the best odds so you aren't playing a losing game.

Online charts provide the 'what,' but books provide the 'why.' Understanding the underlying logic allows you to adapt if you encounter a non-standard paytable or a new game variant.

Consistency is key. Rather than cramming, spending short, focused sessions studying mathematical patterns and practicing your decision speed will yield better long-term results.
Research & Insights

Our Analysis of Video Poker Books

11 Reviews Analyzed
2 Products Evaluated
4.0 Avg PM Score
2 Brands Ranked

Top 10 Video Poker Books Brands on Amazon

Share of top-ranked products by brand, from our editorial analysis.

  1. 01 Brand: Compton Dancer Pub 1 (50%)
  2. 02 Brand: Pi Yee Press 1 (50%)

What Our Analysis Found

We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 11 reviews on Video Poker Books, using our selection criteria to identify the best options in the humor & entertainment. Our findings reveal that most customers typically select Video Poker Books priced around $6.91, with top brands including square one publishers, huntington press, brand: compu-flyers, two plus two pub., brand: conjelco, brand: pi yee press, gallery books and brand: compton dancer pub and mattel.

Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the top 24 Video Poker Books for your consideration. We've also done extensive research on numerous sellers, identifying the best ones in the humor & entertainment category — including amazon.com, huntington press, amazon.com services llc, gamblers general store, international book sales, sin city games & more, super book sales, thriftbooks-dallas and hippo books and orion llc.

We are dedicated to assisting our users in finding the right poker Products based on their needs, saving them considerable time when choosing which Video Poker Books to buy. We take pride in the number of satisfied users we've helped through our thorough and insightful reviews.

Side by Side

Comparison Table

Compare the top 24 picks at a glance — select a column to sort.

# Product Brand PM Score Rating Where to Buy
1 Phil Gordon's Little Gold Book: Advanced Lessons for Masteri Gallery Books 9.5 4.5 (111) Buy on Amazon
2 The Video Poker Edge, Second Edition: How to Play Smart and Square One Publishers 9.1 4.1 (201) Buy on Amazon
3 Million Dollar Video Poker Huntington Press 8.9 3.9 (107) Buy on Amazon
4 Video Poker for the Intelligent Beginner Huntington Press 8.7 4.1 (91) Buy on Amazon
5 Mattel Big Screen Poker Game Mattel 6.3 3.5 (56) Buy on Amazon
6 Mastering Video Poker - A professional player's secrets reve 6.0 3.9 (42) Buy on Amazon
7 A Winner's Guide to Jacks or Better (Video Poker Winner's Gu 5.9 4.5 (28) Buy on Amazon
8 The Frugal Video Poker Scouting Guide 5.7 4.2 (30) Buy on Amazon
9 Video Poker-Optimum Play 5.5 3.7 (36) Buy on Amazon
10 Everything Casino Poker: Get the Edge at Video Poker, Texas 5.5 4.6 (18) Buy on Amazon
11 Frugal Video Poker 5.5 4.0 (29) Buy on Amazon
12 A Winner's Guide to Double Bonus Poker (Video Poker Winner's 5.3 5.0 (6) Buy on Amazon
13 Video Poker Heaven: A Practical Guide to Discovering Video P 5.2 4.4 (15) Buy on Amazon
14 Video Poker Winner's Guides: Vol. 6: A Winner's Guide to Dou 5.1 4.4 (13) Buy on Amazon
15 The Secret World Of Video Poker Progressives 5.1 4.5 (11) Buy on Amazon
16 Mastering Joker Wild Video Poker Strategy Guide 5.1 5.0 (1) Buy on Amazon
17 Video Poker Volatility: Understanding Volatility in Video Po 4.8 4.6 (4) Buy on Amazon
18 Conjelco Video Poker: Optimum Play Guide Brand: Conjelco 4.8 3.9 (18) Buy on Amazon
19 Fundamentals of Video Poker by Two Plus Two Pub Two Plus Two Pub. 4.6 4.2 (7) Buy on Amazon
20 Win At Video Poker: The Guide to Beating the Poker Machines 4.5 4.2 (5) Buy on Amazon
21 Video Poker Mania!! 4.3 4.1 (4) Buy on Amazon
22 Sex, Lies, And Video Poker Erotic Novel Brand: Compton Dancer Pub 4.2 4.0 (3) Buy on Amazon
23 Winning Strategies for Video Poker Brand: Compu-Flyers 4.0 3.7 (6) Buy on Amazon
24 Professional Video Poker by Pi Yee Press Brand: Pi Yee Press 3.9 3.5 (8) Buy on Amazon