Pai Gow Poker is a modern game with ancient origins. Based on the ancient Chinese domino game and the modern American version of poker, Pai Gow poker combines the east with the west in a great game for beginning level players.
Pai Gow Poker is a poker game that pits the player against the dealer, unlike most other poker games that players play against other players. By playing against the dealer, beginning players don’t have to worry about other, more experienced people taking their money.
Another Pai Gow advantage is the relatively slow game play, novices can take their time and strategize without needing to make hasty decisions. It’s also easier to play for a long time with just a little bit of money since, to lose, both of your hands must be lower than both of the dealer’s hands.
Pai Gow is played with 53 cards; the regular 52-card standard deck and one joker. The player is dealt seven cards face up and the dealer receives seven cards face down.
A five card hand and a two card hand must be made from the seven cards, the five card hand must be higher than the two card hand. To win, a player needs both of his hand values to be higher than the dealer’s.
A Beginner’s Strategy for Pai Gow Poker
Pai Gow Poker is a fascinating casino game that combines elements of traditional poker and the ancient Chinese domino game, Pai Gow. This game offers a slower pace than many other casino games, making it an excellent choice for beginners looking for a fun and low-pressure gambling experience. This article will cover a basic strategy for newcomers to Pai Gow Poker, helping them make optimal decisions and enjoy the game.
Understanding Pai Gow Poker
In Pai Gow Poker, a single 53-card deck is used, consisting of the standard 52 cards and a single joker. The joker can be used as an ace or to complete a straight, flush, or straight flush. Up to six players can participate, with each player competing against the dealer.
The objective of Pai Gow Poker is to create two separate poker hands from the seven cards dealt: a five-card “high” hand and a two-card “low” hand. The high hand must be ranked higher than the low hand. To win, both of a player’s hands must beat the dealer’s corresponding hands. If only one hand wins, the bet is considered a push, and if both hands lose, the player loses the bet.
Basic Strategy for Pai Gow Poker Beginners
- Understand hand rankings: Pai Gow Poker uses standard poker hand rankings, and it’s essential to familiarize yourself with them. The only exception is that in some casinos, the second-highest straight (A-2-3-4-5) is considered the highest possible low hand.
- Arrange your cards: When you receive your seven cards, arrange them into the best possible high and low hands. Remember, your high hand must be ranked higher than your low hand.
- High hand strategy: Focus on creating the strongest possible high hand while still maintaining a reasonably strong low hand. Aim for the best five-card poker hand, such as a straight, flush, full house, or better.
- Low hand strategy: Generally, try to create the highest-ranked two-card hand without surpassing your high hand. This usually means using your highest pair or highest individual cards that don’t contribute to your high hand.
- Use the joker wisely: When you receive a joker, use it to complete the highest possible hand. If it can’t be used to complete a straight, flush, or straight flush, treat it as an ace and use it accordingly.
- House Way: If you’re unsure about how to set your hands, you can ask the dealer to set your hands according to the “house way.” This is a predefined set of rules used by the casino to arrange hands in an optimal manner. While it may not always lead to the best possible outcome, it provides a solid starting point for beginners.
- Manage your bankroll: Pai Gow Poker has a relatively low house edge, and many hands end in a push, allowing you to play for longer periods with less risk. However, be mindful of your bankroll and set limits to avoid losing more than you can afford.
Pai Gow Poker is an excellent choice for beginners looking for a fun and relatively low-risk casino experience. By familiarizing yourself with hand rankings, using a basic strategy to set your hands, and managing your bankroll wisely, you can enjoy this unique game and improve your chances of success.