Pai Gow Poker

Pai Gow Poker, also known as double-hand poker, is a variation of the most popular card game ever. It is inspired by the traditional rules of Pai Gow.

It’s not as old as blackjack or poker itself. In fact, this poker variation arrived in casinos in 1985. In its short time on the scene, it has managed to climb the list of most popular poker variations quite high. With a house edge of around 2.5%, Pai Gow is profitable. And it’s fun to play once you learn all the rules.

Win both Hands

The player can win both hands. He then gets paid out at even money with the house taking a 5% commission (except in NZ Pai Gow Poker). If the player is 50% successful (wins one, loses one hand), the bet is pushed (returned to the player). Of course, if the dealer wins both hands, the player loses the full bet.

Unlike other poker variations, the player can bet against all the other players and the dealer as well. This is known as banking. In land-based casinos, each player takes a turn being a banker. If one player declines to bank, the option goes to the next player.

Variations

As soon as Pai Gow Poker arrived at online casinos, game designers didn’t waste time to develop great new variations. Pai Gow Mania, for example, allows the player to place two side bets per hand, giving him the opportunity to win major cash prizes.

All the variations of Pai Gow Poker are based on slightly tweaked rules that make this poker variation one of the most exciting to ever appear in a casino. Pair that with a reasonably low house edge, and you’ll realize why poker players love it.

The House Way

The House Way is a term which describes the way the dealer sets up his hand. This means that learning more about it can bring you on an almost even playing field with the casino. The dealer sets up his hand with the idea that the house doesn’t want to lose. If you set up your hand in a similar manner, you can play competitively against the dealer.

As there are two hands in play, you shouldn’t gamble away your chances, so make sure to always have a good low hand. When the dealer has an ace-ace in the low hand, he knows that the house can’t be beaten as there are 4 aces out. With this low hand, the house will defeat other hands including your own, which is why you need to make your low hand as strong as possible.

Depending on the cards you’ve been dealt, you should work with what you got. Remember, the House Way gives an advantage to the dealer over any player at the table, so make smart decisions.