If you wander through the table games section of any major casino, you will eventually discover the slow, methodical game of Pai Gow Poker.

It is universally beloved by older gamblers and those who want to stretch their bankroll for hours while enjoying free casino drinks.

The Basics: Building Two Separate Hands

Your sole objective is to split these seven cards into two separate, distinct poker hands: a five-card hand and a two-card hand.

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 bet
• If 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

How the Dealer Plays Their Cards

However, you do not need to be a math genius; every casino has a strict, printed rulebook detailing exactly how the dealer must set their hand.

The dealer will happily arrange your hand exactly according to the mathematical guidelines of the House Way.

The Pace and Vibe of Pai Gow

Because analyzing and setting seven cards takes time, the dealer deals significantly fewer hands per hour compared to blackjack.

This low-volatility environment is perfect for players who want to sit at a table for hours, chat with friends, and enjoy complimentary beverages.

By utilizing the Joker effectively and understanding when to split two pairs, you can enjoy this fascinating game for hours on end.