Understanding The Rules Of Pai Gow

If you wander through the table games section of any major casino, you will eventually discover the slow, methodical game of Pai Gow Poker.


Because the game frequently results in a "push" (a tie), the variance is incredibly low, making it difficult to lose money quickly.

The Basics: Building Two Separate Hands

Your sole objective is to split these seven cards into two separate, distinct poker hands: a five-card hand and a two-card hand.


The most critical, unbreakable rule of the game is that your five-card hand must mathematically rank higher than your two-card hand.

You must win both the High and Low hands against the dealer to win your betIf you win one hand and lose the other, the entire round is a "push" (tie)If you lose both hands to the dealer, the casino takes your entire wager
How the Dealer Plays Their Cards

Because players must arrange their own cards, Pai Gow Poker introduces an element of strategic skill not found in baccarat or roulette.


The dealer will happily arrange your hand exactly according to the mathematical guidelines of the House Way.

The Pace and Vibe of Pai Gow

Furthermore, because approximately 40% of all hands end in a push, your bankroll barely fluctuates over a long session.


It is essentially the ultimate "hangout" game on the casino floor, requiring very little mental energy once you understand the basic mechanics.

Two-Card Hand RuleValid CombinationInvalid CombinationMust be weaker than 5-cardPair of 2s (if 5-card has Pair of Kings)Pair of Aces (if 5-card has no pair)Card Types AllowedHigh Cards or Pairs OnlyStraights/Flushes impossible with 2 cards

Take a seat, ask the dealer to explain the House Way, and enjoy the most relaxing mathematical puzzle the casino has to offer.