Description
Among other things, industry-leading operator NetEnt is known for the quality and appearance of its table games, and Oasis Poker is no exception. This variant is similar to Caribbean Stud Poker, is popular with players, and it’s straightforward enough to understand how to play it.
This game has been described as an upmarket version of video poker, with some extra interactivity thrown in. The basic aim is to swap cards for new ones, and the dealer doesn’t qualify until they have an Ace + King or higher, giving you more chances to win.
As things get underway, you’ll be shown a typical dealer’s table. Oh, and you’ll hear some soft piano music in the background, which you can turn off if you prefer.
How to play
Coin sizes in this game range from €1 to €40. You play with a single 52-card deck which gets shuffled ahead of each round. Your task is to get a better hand than the dealer, in accordance with conventional high poker rankings.
The game has variable speed modes, so you can play as quickly or as slowly as you like.
To place an initial bet, drag a chip to the ‘Ante’ circle before pressing ‘Deal’ to get your cards.
Both you and the dealer have five cards. Five face up towards you, one is exposed and four face down to the dealer. (Equally, you will be able to see one of the dealer’s cards.)
Draw Cost
For a fee, you can then decide to discard and replace one or any number of cards in a bid for a stronger hand. Every card you change will cost you as detailed below, and will be shown in the ‘Draw Cost’ circle to the left of your screen:
- 1 card = 1 x Ante
- 2 cards = 2 x ante
- 3 cards = 3 x ante
- 4 cards = 2 x ante
- 5* cards = 1 x ante
Then, when you have your final five cards, you can choose to call to play the hand – or fold to surrender. Calling costs an extra 1x the ante. If you call it, the dealer turns over the remaining four cards. The best five-card poker hand wins.
If your hand is stronger than the dealer’s, the payout is 2x your overall stake, minus the ante and draw and call costs.
As you place your original bet, be aware of the additional costs the draw involves.
Finally, to continue playing, simply hit the Rebet function, place your wager and carry on as before.
Oasis Poker special features
Bonus rounds
There’s nothing in the way of a bonus round here, as you’d probably expect, and no progressive jackpot.
Return to Player (RTP)
If you play with the right strategy, there’s a highly attractive RTP or Return to Player of 99.27% to be had in this game.
Verdict
You may well find this game a good alternative to video poker. Remember, you are only playing against the dealer, which could make things feel a little less competitive.
NetEnt’s Oasis Poker is a straightforward, good-looking and entertaining affair, and if you love traditional-style poker games rather than video poker variants, this is certainly a great one to consider.
Poker 
