When people decide to gamble—and they are rational and intelligent people—they usually understand what they’re getting into. Most will do a little research or even make some logical observations about the games they intend to play.

For example, few would think that the “Big Six” wheel would make a good gamble, and they would be right. That game has some of the worst odds for the player in the house. Roulette—at least as it’s played in Nevada—isn’t  much better. Now craps, baccarat and blackjack, they’re different. Depending upon the bets or the strategy, they can be some of the best games for the player—but still favor the house substantially.

But what do you do with slots? Nothing really. There is no way to tell which slots pay more than others. Unless you’re talking about video poker.

By learning the right games to play, the right paytables and the correct strategies, video poker can be the best bet in the house. And in the right circumstance, a player can even get an edge over the casino.

Bob Dancer, probably the most reputable video poker expert in the business, has come out with a new book that examines the game in a new way and with a new attitude.

Video poker used to be easy. Just find a 9/6 Jacks or Better game and you could be happy. (The “9” refers to the payout for a flush, while the “6” refers to the full house payout; most casinos rarely offer machines that are better than 8/5 and can sometimes be as bad as 6/5).

But today, there are an amazing variety of machines and paytables. Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, Joker Wild, Double Bonus and Double Double Bonus, and variations like Multi Strike poker or Quick Quads are just a few of the games reviewed by Dancer in this book. And they all present opportunities for the “intelligent” beginner who can tell the difference between the come-on and the true value.

Dancer reviews the games in a non-technical manner and a friendly demeanor, giving the reader an understanding of why these games are the best. But he’s a strict taskmaster when it comes to strategy. Stick with the strategy and you’ll have the best chance. Stray just a little and you become just like every other sucker on the casino floor.

So if you want to get the most from your casino wagering, get Dancer’s book, read it and apply. You won’t be a loser, that’s for sure.

By Patrick Roberts