Walking through the table games section, you will often see players relaxed and chatting around the Pai Gow Poker table.
It is the ideal game for players who want to sit, enjoy free drinks, and play for hours without risking massive losses.
Understanding the Deal and the Rules
After placing your bet, the dealer distributes exactly seven cards to every player and to themselves.
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.