Learn to Play Pai Gow Poker: Rules & Tips

Players 2-6 Players
Difficulty 5/10
Recommended Age 18+
Game Category Casino
Playing the card game Pai Gow Poker
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Pai Gow Poker Game Overview

Are you looking for a new card game to play with friends or family? Look no further than Pai Gow Poker! This exciting game combines elements of traditional poker and Chinese dominoes, creating a unique and thrilling experience for players of all skill levels.

The game is played with a standard deck of 52 cards, plus one Joker. The objective is to create two hands, one with five cards and one with two, that beat the dealer's two hands. With multiple ways to win and an ever-changing strategy, Pai Gow Poker is sure to keep you entertained for hours!

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Objective of the Game

The goal of Pai Gow Poker is to create two hands that beat the dealer's two hands. The five-card hand must be stronger than the two-card hand. To win, both of your hands must be stronger than both of the dealer's hands. If you win one hand and lose the other, the round is considered a push, and your bet is returned to you.

One unique aspect of Pai Gow Poker is that players are required to set their own hands, rather than the dealer doing it for them. This adds an extra layer of strategy to the game, as players must decide which cards to use for their two-card hand and which to use for their five-card hand.

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Materials Needed for Playing Pai Gow Poker

  • Standard deck of 52 cards
  • 1 Joker
  • Pai Gow Poker table (optional)

Cards Used

Pai Gow Poker is played with a standard deck of 52 cards, plus one Joker. The Joker can be used as an Ace or to complete a straight or flush.

Other Supplies Needed

  • Pai Gow Poker chips (optional)
  • Pai Gow Poker table (optional)

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How To Play Pai Gow Poker

  1. Players place their bets
  2. The dealer shuffles the deck and deals seven cards to each player and themselves
  3. Players set their cards into a five-card hand and a two-card hand
  4. The dealer reveals their hands and sets them according to the house rules
  5. Players compare their hands to the dealer's hands and receive payouts based on the outcome

Keeping Score

Players keep track of their wins and losses on a scorecard, which is typically provided by the casino. The payouts for winning hands vary depending on the casino, but a typical payout structure is as follows:

  • Winning five-card hand: 1:1
  • Winning two-card hand: 1:1
  • Winning both hands: 1:1

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Related Games

If you enjoy playing Pai Gow Poker, you may also enjoy these similar card games: