This seems fun, but it also seems as if the casino can set the machine to any EV that it wants, as opposed to other VP games where the EV can be calculated against the posted pay table? Is that so?
The casino can set the EV to what they want, but it's based on the video poker schedule. The frequency of the multipliers and their distribution is set by the manufacturer (IGT) and can't be changed. It's also the same no matter what game you play. Check out what noted gambling authority Wizard of Odds has to say about it here.
I'm a big STP fan, and I can tell you that they're a lot of fun, if a little on the expensive side. There are full-pay games out there if you look hard. Check the usual sources.
The casino can't manipulate the frequency of the multiplier appearing, if that's what you're getting at. The Wizard of Odds page linked above gives a good explanation of the extra bet for the STP feature. It adds some volatility, but it does increase the payback percentage by a smidge.
Thinking a good part of this machine is to play, and when you hit a nice multiplier, take your winnings and move on. (yea, good advice for anything). I guess what I am saying, is unlike most VP that you just move along with little wins, etc, the STP multiplier gives you a chance for a nice big hit. And also means you could play for awhile and get wiped out.
Thanks for mentioning this game--it's a new variation of JoB I'd not been familiar w/. I've started playing it on VPW and am finding what noahcat says to be true (not getting the multiplier on good dealt hands)--still, I would think the additional .28% payback factors that in over the long run.
I noticed on vpFREE that Gold Coast has full pay .25 machines--w/a 4x points day like they currently have on Thursdays, that would yield roughly a .2% advantage w/the game. I'm thinking of trying it on our upcoming trip--but perhaps towards the end, so the higher volitility doesn't end my play sooner than I'd want to.
I like to bump up denom occasinally. I also keep playing different games, or 3/5 or 10 play until I find one where Multiplier seems to pop up the most.
Seems like the multiplier has a FAV game. My mission is to find Which game its hiding under. lol When all else fails, I change machines.
Also suggest, play it online ALOT to get the feel for it. Dont' waste your money practicing.
I play STP about 90% of the time. I play very quickly and when I first started playing STP I would go through a $100 without a multiplier. I eventually caught on and slowed down which is a good idea on any VP that pays less than 100%. I had my best gambling year ever last year and it was because of STP. I was very lucky last year. YLMV (Your Luck May Vary)
