Aces and Faces is a relatively simple video poker variant that was released several years ago by Playtech, one of the most reputable gaming studios. The game follows the rules of the classic Jacks or Better, but it offers attractive bonus payouts for holding four high cards of the same value. Players can place bets from $/€0.05 to $/€5.00 per gaming round.
Rules and Gameplay
Playtech’s Aces and Faces uses a single standard deck of cards with no Jokers or wild cards. The objective of the game is the same as in any other video poker variant – players must collect cards that form one of several possible poker hands. Up to 5 coins can be wagered, and the coins come in denominations ranging from $/€0.05 to $/€1.00.
Players receive five cards and may choose to replace any number of them during the second deal. If they win, they can opt for the Gamble feature – they play against the dealer’s face-up card and must pick one of four face-down cards. If their card is higher than the dealer’s, they can choose to double either the entire amount of their winnings or half of it.
Paytable and Specific Features
Hand | 1 coin | 2 coins | 3 coins | 4 coins | 5 coins |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Royal Flush | 500 | 1000 | 2000 | 3000 | 4000 |
4 Aces | 80 | 160 | 240 | 320 | 400 |
Straight Flush | 50 | 100 | 150 | 200 | 250 |
4 of a Kind (J, Q, or K) | 40 | 80 | 120 | 160 | 200 |
4 of a Kind (2-10) | 25 | 50 | 75 | 100 | 125 |
Full House | 8 | 16 | 24 | 32 | 40 |
Flush | 5 | 10 | 15 | 20 | 25 |
Straight | 4 | 8 | 12 | 16 | 20 |
3 of a Kind | 3 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 15 |
2 Pair | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 |
Jacks or Better | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
The paytable shows that, unlike in standard video poker, three distinct types of Four of a Kind hands are recognized. The Four Aces hand is the most valuable of the three, paying 80 coins, and it is surpassed only by a Royal Flush. Players who get four face cards of the same value receive 40 coins, whereas the payout for all other Four of a Kind hands is a standard 25 coins.
Note that this is an 8/5 video poker game. Additionally, the payout for a Royal Flush is higher than usual when you play with 3, 4, or 5 coins. When betting 5 coins, the RTP of Aces and Faces is 99.25%.
Conclusion
Playtech’s Aces and Faces is a rewarding video poker game, but players should still use at least a basic strategy to improve their chances of winning.