Objective of the Game
Pai Gow is a popular casino card game inspired by the Chinese domino game Pai Gow. The aim is to beat the dealer with a combination of two poker hands.
Game Components
- A standard 52-card deck plus one Joker.
Gameplay
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Placing Bets: First, players place their bets in the designated zones on the table.
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Dealing Cards: The dealer shuffles the cards and deals seven cards to each player and themselves. Each hand is split into two poker hands – a high hand (five cards) and a low hand (two cards).
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Setting Hands:
- The high hand is evaluated as a traditional poker hand, ranging from the highest Royal Flush to the lowest High Card.
- The low hand consists of just two cards, with the best outcome being a pair.
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The Joker can be used as an Ace or to complete straights or flushes.
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Comparing with the Dealer:
- Each player's hands are separately compared to the dealer's corresponding hands.
- To win, players need to beat the dealer's both hands.
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Ties count as wins for the dealer.
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Payout:
- If a player wins both hands, they receive a payout based on their bet (commonly 1:1 minus a house fee).
- If the player only wins one hand or loses both, the bet stays with the house.
Strategic Considerations
- Bankroll Management: Due to the house edge through ties, players should manage their funds wisely.
- Two-Pair Hand: When possible, place high pairs in the high hand and low pairs in the low hand.
- Avoid Bluffs: Since there isn't a folding or bluffing option, players should arrange their hands by strength rather than deception.
Special Features
- House Edge: Like many casino games, the house has a slight edge due to the tie rule.
- Dealer's Bankroll: Experienced players sometimes choose to act as the dealer, which can provide a strategic advantage.
With these rules, players can successfully engage in Pai Gow and strategically master the game.
