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.
How to Set Your Hands in Pai Gow
After placing a bet, every player at the table, along with the dealer, receives exactly seven cards face down.
If you place a pair of Aces in your two-card hand, but only have King-high in your five-card hand, you automatically forfeit the round.
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
The Strategy of Setting the "House Way"
This rigidly defined set of rules is universally known across the industry as the "House Way."
The dealer will happily arrange your hand exactly according to the mathematical guidelines of the House Way.
Why High Rollers Love the Slow Pace
Furthermore, because approximately 40% of all hands end in a push, your bankroll barely fluctuates over a long session.
This low-volatility environment is perfect for players who want to sit at a table for hours, chat with friends, and enjoy complimentary beverages.
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.
1
How to Play Pai Gow Poker
mindylimon2270 edited this page 2026-08-05 13:07:32 +00:00