PAI GOW POKER: Beginner’s Guide to Playing and Winning

What Is Pai Gow Poker?

Pai Gow Poker is a casino card game that blends traditional poker with the Chinese domino game Pai Gow. Played with a standard 52-card deck plus a joker, the goal is to create two hands—a five-card “high” hand and a two-card “low” hand—both stronger than the dealer’s corresponding hands.

Pai Gow Poker is slower-paced, making it ideal for beginners who enjoy strategy, low-risk betting, and a relaxed gaming experience. It’s also popular for its lower house edge compared to other casino games.

How to Play Pai Gow Poker

Step-by-Step Guide to Playing Pai Gow Poker

1. Place Your Bet – Wager chips against the dealer.
2. Deal the Cards – Each player receives seven cards.
3. Create Two Hands – Arrange your seven cards into a five-card “high” hand and a two-card “low” hand.
4. Compare with Dealer – Both your hands are compared to the dealer’s corresponding hands.
5. Determine Outcome – Win if both hands beat the dealer, lose if both lose, and push if one wins and one loses.

Key Rules and Tips

• Hand Rankings – Standard poker hand rankings apply for the five-card hand. The two-card hand is ranked by pair and high card.
• Joker Rule – The joker can act as an Ace or complete a straight/flush in the five-card hand.
• Banker Option – Some casinos allow players to act as the banker, increasing strategic control.

Beginner Tips and Pai Gow Poker Strategy

1. Set Hands Wisely – Place your strongest cards in the five-card hand and avoid making the two-card hand too weak. Proper arrangement improves your chances of winning both hands.
2. Use the Joker Strategically – Use the Joker to complete straights or flushes instead of only as an Ace. Thoughtful use can turn a mediocre hand into a strong one.
3. Consider the Banker Role – If the casino allows, acting as the banker can provide a slight edge. Understanding the banker’s role helps you make smarter decisions.
4. Manage Your Bankroll – Only wager money you can afford to lose and avoid chasing losses. Managing your bankroll ensures the game stays enjoyable and stress-free.
5. Play for Fun – Enjoy the slower pace and strategic depth of Pai Gow Poker. Focusing on fun keeps the experience relaxed while improving your skills.