Abstract: A multi-pay video poker machine includes a microprocessor based video display system. The program permits higher payoffs when compared to conventional video poker games. In accordance with the present invention, it is recognized that each of the winning poker hands include constituent winning sub-hands for which the player may be compensated to increase the payoff level of winning hands. For example, a player is compensated for the values of a royal flush, a straight flush, a flush and a straight when a royal flush is obtained. The computer instructions required to play the game are stored in a read-only memory inside the machine which are executed by the microprocessor unit.