Pai Gow Poker

Pai Gow Poker is a casino table game played with a standard 52-card deck plus one Joker, where players arrange seven cards into two separate poker hands. Often called Double Hand Poker, this game is derived from the ancient Chinese domino game of Pai Gow. It is known for a relatively high number of "Pushes" (ties), which contributes to its low volatility and allows players to make their bankroll last longer. The game typically features a House Edge of around 2.5%, including commission.

The Objective

You are dealt 7 cards and must strategically split them into two separate hands:

• High Hand (Back): This 5-card hand must be stronger than your Low Hand.
• Low Hand (Front): This 2-card hand is typically a pair or two high cards.

The primary goal is for both of your hands to beat the dealer's corresponding hands.

Winning and Pushes

After both you and the dealer have set your High and Low hands, the outcomes are determined:

• Win Both: If both your High Hand and Low Hand beat the dealer's respective hands, you win (minus a 5% commission).
• Push: If one of your hands wins and the other loses, or if there is a tie with the dealer on either hand, it results in a push. Your wager is returned.
• Lose Both: If both your High Hand and Low Hand lose to the dealer's hands, you lose your wager.

The Joker Rule

The 53-card deck includes a Joker, which has specific rules for its use:

• The Joker always acts as an Ace.
• Alternatively, the Joker can be used to complete a Straight, a Flush, or a Straight Flush.

Basic Casino Strategy

A fundamental aspect of Pai Gow Poker is the strategic arrangement of your seven cards. Most casinos offer a "House Way" that dictates how a dealer would set their hand; players often choose to follow this for a consistent strategy. Generally, the aim is to create the strongest possible 5-card High Hand while ensuring your 2-card Low Hand is as strong as possible, without making it stronger than the High Hand. Common strategies frequently prioritize placing pairs or high-value cards in the Low Hand, and utilizing the Joker to complete straights or flushes in the High Hand, which helps maximize potential wins during its low volatility gameplay.