Pai Gow

Objective:

The objective of Pai Gow is to create two poker hands, one five-card hand (high hand) and one two-card hand (low hand), that are higher in rank than the dealer’s corresponding hands. The goal is to win both hands to claim the pot.

Setup:

1. Pai Gow is typically played with a standard deck of 52 playing cards, plus one Joker card.
2. Up to six players can participate, including the dealer.

Gameplay:

1. Each player places their bet on the designated betting area on the table.
2. The dealer shuffles the deck and deals seven cards face-down to each player, including themselves.
3. Each player arranges their cards into a five-card hand and a two-card hand, following specific rules and rankings.
4. The five-card hand (high hand) must have a higher poker rank than the two-card hand (low hand).
5. The Joker card can be used to complete a straight or a flush, or as an Ace.
6. Once all players have arranged their hands, they place them face-down on the table.
7. The dealer reveals their own cards and arranges them into a high hand and a low hand.
8. The dealer compares their hands to each player’s corresponding hands, starting with the high hands.
9. If a player’s high hand and low hand both rank higher than the dealer’s corresponding hands, they win that round.
10. If a player’s hands are lower in rank than the dealer’s, they lose that round.
11. If only one of the player’s hands is higher in rank, it’s considered a push, and no money is exchanged.
12. In case of a tie, the dealer wins.

Hand Rankings:

• The rankings for the high hand follow standard poker hand rankings.
• The rankings for the low hand are as follows (from highest to lowest):
  1. Pair of Aces
  2. Pair of Kings
  3. Pair of Queens
  4. Pair of Jacks
  5. Pair of 10s
  6. Pair of 9s
  7. Pair of 8s
  8. Pair of 7s
  9. Pair of 6s
  10. Pair of 5s
  11. Pair of 4s
  12. Pair of 3s
  13. Pair of 2s
  14. High Card

Tips:

• When arranging your hands, ensure that the five-card hand has a higher rank than the two-card hand.
• Pay attention to the rules for using the Joker card and strategize accordingly.
• Study and familiarize yourself with the hand rankings to make better decisions.
• Be mindful of the dealer’s hands and consider their strategy.
• Manage your bankroll effectively and avoid making large bets without a strong hand.

Pai Gow is a unique and strategic card game that combines elements of poker. With this guide, you’re ready to start playing and enjoy the intriguing nature of Pai Gow!