Pai Gow Poker

How it Started

In comparison to other casino games, Pai Gow is a more recent invention. It originated in 1985, and was invented by a man named, Sam Torosian. It was first introduced in his Bell Card Club, located in southern California. Unfortunately, Torosian never patented the game, so he has not been quite as successful as others have been for inventing casino games.

The game definitely features a more laid-back pace than you may be used to with other table games, such as craps or blackjack. It is based on a Chinese domino game. Additionally, it is ideal for those who wish to stretch out their play time, without having to dig too deep into their pockets!

Rules

The game uses a 52-card deck, and includes the joker. The joker can be used during play to serve as an Ace or to aid in completing a straight or flush of any kind. The values of the hands will remain the same as those within a traditional poker game. However, the only difference is that the second-highest straight or straight flush is, A-2-3-4-5, followed by five aces as the highest hand.

     - 2nd Hightest Hand: Straight flush

     - Highest Hand: 5 Aces

You will begin the game by first placing your bet. Once this has been done, the dealer will then roll the dice to determine which player will be dealt cards first. You and any other players will be dealt seven cards. The cards will be used to create two different poker hands.

There are two sections within the game to be aware of: highest cards, and low cards. You must divide your cards into these two sections, with five cards going to the highest cards, and two going to the low cards.  If you place these hand in the wrong order, it is an automatic loss.

Your two hands will be placed face-down down before the dealer’s cards are exposed.

In the event that only one hand wins, the result is a push, and there is no win or loss. In order to win, your high and low hands must beat that of the dealer’s. If you win both hands, the dealer will pay out the amount you staked at the beginning of the round. If the dealer wins both hands, however, he will be paid your bet.

Additionally, any players have the opportunity to serve as the banker during the games, per request.

To learn more details about Pai Gow check it out here: Pai Gow Rules.