8 Best Video Games Where You Can Play Poker

Many video games feature what is called “mini-games”, or smaller games within the overarching storyline of the main game you’re playing. Sometimes these mini-games progress the story, or other times they’re just a fun aside. 

Several top video games feature poker mini-games, where players get to test their poker skills at the table against non-playable characters (NPCs) or other online players. The best video games where you can play poker allow this casino game to blend seamlessly into the gaming world.

1. Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2 is a top pick for many open-world gamers. In this game you ride your horse around the Wild West, taking in sights, sounds, and scenery and completing quests. The game allows you to interact with NPCs in town, and one way to do this is to play a round of Texas Hold’em. 

The poker games allow you to earn in-game money. The NPCs are often major characters in the game, and while you play, you hear stories being told, which deepens the gaming experience. You even have to look out for the other players’ tells to try and win. You don’t need to understand poker to play this mini-game, but having a strategy will increase your chances of scoring some money. 

2. Prominence Poker

Poker is in the name, so you know that Prominence Poker will feature important poker games that help your character progress through the game. It is set in an underworld city, where gangsters rule and players must earn their keep by winning rounds of Texas Hold’em. 

The game has a dark and sketchy atmosphere, and players need to learn quickly to bluff and play strategically. Prominence Poker is a hit with real poker players too, as it sets up the game as if you’re playing at one of the top online poker sites - although it doesn’t offer hundreds of real-money games or excellent rakeback offers like online poker sites do (source: https://www.techopedia.com/poker/best-online-poker-sites). Players must adopt real poker strategies, and each game feels as if you’re sitting at the casino. 

3. Hard West 2

Poker is an important part of your character’s development in Hard West 2. You have to collect poker cards as you play, unlocking new abilities and improving your characters’ skills and stats. 

Poker is woven into the gameplay, adding another layer of complexity and impacting your journey through the untamed West. Hard West 2 features some supernatural twists and tough combat scenes, and including poker makes the game stand out from other RPGs in a similar setting. Poker games are not just part of the gameplay but also form an important part of the game’s narrative. 

4. Far Cry 3

Far Cry 3 is a popular open-world game that features many side quests and mini-games that don’t progress the main storyline but result in a more fun experience. Poker is one of these additional activities that you can play as you stumble upon NPCs willing to challenge you in different settlements. 

Once you join a Texas Hold’em game, you can select the difficulty. It will determine how skilled your opponents are and also how much in-game currency you can wager. The money you win can be used to buy weapons. The poker mini-game is unlocked as outposts are conquered. 

Far Cry 3 can get your heart racing as you explore the tropical island, and the poker mini-games offer some relief from the high-intensity first-person shooter quests. 

5. GTA Online

GTA Online is a massive open-world MMORPG where you explore the fictional state of San Andreas, driving fast cars, shooting your way around the city, and avoiding cops. 

A standout feature is The Diamond Casino & Resort, where players can enjoy various casino games, including three-card poker. You are playing against the dealer, mimicking a real-world poker experience.

6. Yakuza Kiwami

Yakuza games are known for their mini-games, like boxing, bowling, karaoke, drone racing, and poker. Players can choose from three types of poker: Omaha Hold’em, Texas Hold’em, and Pineapple Hold’em. 

When the poker game starts, a player is selected to be the dealer, and this role shifts clockwise. The only way poker in  Yakuza Kiwami differs from real-world poker is that there is a Royal Joker Card. When you play this card, your next hand will be a strong one. 

7. Tales of Vesperia

Tales of Vesperia features five-card draw, however, you’re not playing against any opponents. You receive a hand, and this determines your payout. It mimics video poker but without playing against a machine. When you win, you will be asked if you want to double your winnings, after which a game of hi-lo will ensue. 

8. Watch Dogs

Watch Dogs, set in Chicago, combines poker and hacking. You have to use in-game mechanisms to determine your opponents’ tells and base your poker strategy on what you discover. This gives you an edge, mimicking the overarching themes of the game, like controlling high-stakes scenarios and always being on the lookout. 

Wrapping Up

These video games are beloved by players, and the inclusion of poker as a mini-game adds another layer of engagement. Poker games can offer relief from high-stress storylines, deepen the gaming experience, or simply offer a fun distraction where you get to practice new skills.