If you are looking for a slow-paced, highly strategic game with a low house edge, Pai Gow Poker is the perfect choice.
The game is famous for its incredibly high number of ‘pushes’ (ties), meaning your bankroll will last a very long time.
The Basic Rules of Pai Gow Poker
Unlike traditional poker, the Joker can only be used to complete a straight or a flush, otherwise, it is always an Ace.
Your objective is to separate your seven cards into two distinct hands: a five-card ‘high’ hand and a two-card ‘low’ hand.
- The dealer must set their hand according to a strict set of casino rules called the ‘House Way’
- If you are confused, you can always ask the dealer to set your hand according to the House Way for you
- Because tying is so common, the casino takes a 5% commission on all winning bets to maintain their house edge
Basic Strategy for Setting Your Cards
The strategy in Pai Gow revolves entirely around making your two-card hand as strong as legally possible without fouling.
If you are dealt a full house, you should almost always split it: put the three-of-a-kind in the back and the pair in the front.
| Starting Hand | Five-Card Hand (High) | Two-Card Hand (Low) |
|---|---|---|
| Pair of Aces & Pair of 4s | Pair of Aces | Pair of 4s |
| Full House (Three 8s, Two Kings) | Three 8s | Pair of Kings |
By learning how to balance your high and low hands perfectly, you can enjoy one of the best table games in the casino.