A Guide to Playing Pai Gow Poker

If you wander through the table games section of any major casino, you will eventually discover the slow, methodical game of Pai Gow Poker.

It is universally beloved by older gamblers and those who want to stretch their bankroll for hours while enjoying free casino drinks.

How to Set Your Hands in Pai Gow

After placing a bet, every player at the table, along with the dealer, receives exactly seven cards face down.

If you place a pair of Aces in your two-card hand, but only have King-high in your five-card hand, you automatically forfeit the round.

• You must win both the High and Low hands against the dealer to win your bet
• If you win one hand and lose the other, the entire round is a “push” (tie)
• If you lose both hands to the dealer, the casino takes your entire wager

Understanding the House Way Strategy

Because players must arrange their own cards, Pai Gow Poker introduces an element of strategic skill not found in baccarat or roulette.

The dealer will happily arrange your hand exactly according to the mathematical guidelines of the House Way.

The Most Relaxing Game in the Casino

The defining characteristic of Pai Gow Poker is its incredibly slow, relaxed, and highly sociable pace of play.

This low-volatility environment is perfect for players who want to sit at a table for hours, chat with friends, and enjoy complimentary beverages.

By utilizing the Joker effectively and understanding when to split two pairs, you can enjoy this fascinating game for hours on end.