If you are looking for a slow-paced, highly strategic game with a low house edge, Pai Gow Poker is the perfect choice.

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

Unlike traditional poker, the Joker can only be used to complete a straight or a flush, otherwise, it is always an Ace.

The single most important rule of the game is that your five-card hand MUST be strictly higher in value than your two-card 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

The Smartest Way to Play Pai Gow

Because you need to win both hands to make a profit, you cannot just stack all your best cards in the five-card hand.

When dealt a hand with no pairs (a ‘Pai Gow’), you put your highest card in the back and your next two highest in the front.

By learning how to balance your high and low hands perfectly, you can enjoy one of the best table games in the casino.