Mastering Pai Gow Poker: A Guide to Playing this Unique Game Online

How to Play Pai Gow Poker Online

Pai Gow poker, also called double-hand poker, is a unique casino game that blends elements of traditional poker with the ancient Chinese tile game Pai Gow. Today, this game is available at many online casinos as well as various sports betting sites like 888 Bets. The object is to make the highest ranking 5-card and 2-card poker hands from 7 cards dealt. It may seem complex at first, but Pai Gow poker is fun and easy to learn. This guide covers everything you need to know, from understanding the dealer and player roles, betting, optimal strategy, and where to play Pai Gow poker online.

Understanding Player and Dealer Roles

In Pai Gow poker, players take turns being the banker, collecting winning bets and paying out losing ones. Non-banking players try making the best possible hands to beat the dealer. The dealer hand must always set their hands according to the optimal “house way” strategy. As the banker, you have a small edge, but players win roughly 48% of the time.

How to Play and Bet

All players, including the dealer, are dealt 7 cards from a single standard 52-card poker deck plus one joker. These 7 cards are split into a 5-card poker hand and a 2-card hand. The 5-card hand must outrank the 2-card hand. For example, if the 5-card hand contains a pair of 7s, the 2-card hand cannot have anything higher than an ace-high hand like K-Q.

The betting structure is simple. Make an initial wager, then once you see your hands, you can raise your bet up to 3 times. If you set your hands incorrectly, it’s an automatic loss.

Hand Rankings and Scoring

Standard poker hand rankings apply. The only difference is the addition of the joker, which can be used as an ace or to complete a straight, flush or straight flush. If possible, it should be used to make the strongest possible 5-card hand.

Once hands are set, the dealer reveals their two hands and compares them to the player’s. The higher hand between the two wins. If the hands tie, it’s a push. If you win one hand but lose the other, it’s a tie/push.

House Way Strategy

One tricky aspect of Pai Gow poker is properly setting the two hands. That’s where the optimal “house way” strategy comes in. This tells you exactly how to set your hand for the best mathematical edge. For example, one pair should always be placed in the 5-card hand, while two pairs should be split between hands.

While not required, it’s highly recommended you set your hands using the house way strategy as a beginner. This minimizes the house edge and mistakes until you master the game.

Pai Gow Poker Strategy and Tips

Beyond the basic house way strategy, there are some key tips to boost your performance, see details:

• As the banker, be wary of other player’s premium hands that could beat yours
• Know the common exceptions to the house way rules
• Understand hand rankings and probabilities intimately
• Be cautious of making side bets and stick to the main game
• Manage your bankroll wisely and quit while you’re ahead

Where to Play Pai Gow Poker Online

Many top online casinos offer Pai Gow poker in their table game selection alongside blackjack and baccarat.

Make sure to claim the welcome bonuses at each site to maximize the value. This will give you extra cash to learn the game and develop your strategy.

Putting it All Together

While the dual hands and strategic complexities make Pai Gow poker seem intimidating initially, it’s one of the easiest casino table games to pick up. And it’s a nice change of pace from traditional poker and blackjack. Use this guide to get started, from understanding the key rules and gameplay flow to optimal strategy. Before long you’ll be comfortably splitting hands and (hopefully) collecting winnings like a pro. Just take your time to build expertise and have fun mastering this unique game.