Learn Pai Gow Poker

I think it's safe to say that the reason poker continues to remain so popular is that it is one of the most adaptable games on the planet. Only a game with a truly strong foundation can be so flexible to a number of different conditions and still keep its integrity. In this regard, you have to admit that poker is in a league of its own. Which just goes to show that by remaining flexible your chances for surviving throughout many years and untold changes will certainly improve.

If you need an example of poker's unbelievable adaptability, I would point you no further than the great game of Pai Gow poker. Derived from an ancient Chinese contest involving small tiles and borrowing many essential traits from poker, this hybrid is among the most unusual diversions you will ever play. Just try adapting checkers to a Chinese format some time and see how far you get. (On second thought, that's already been done. Think of another game and I think you'll see my point.)

In a game of Pai Gow, each player at the table is dealt seven cards arranged into two hands: a two-card hand and a five-card hand. The five-card hand must be higher than the two-card hand. For example, if the two card hand is a pair of jacks, the five card hand must contain at least a pair of queens or better. Tricky, isn't it?

Don't worry, the object of the game is actually quite simple. The player's two hands must rank higher than both of the banker's two hands. The player's two-card (low) hand must be better than the banker's two-card (low) hand. Going with this flow, the player's five-card (high) hand must rank higher than the banker's five-card (high) hand. Before you get too excited, remember this: the banker wins all ties. It's harsh, I know. That's the Chinese for you.

Speaking of the Chinese and their sacred customs, it is very important to understand all about Pai Gow game. Even if you are playing in an American casino, you must respect these rules of decorum. Stop complaining, they are really not all that difficult to master. Let's run down the list quickly, I'm sure you'll be able to hack it.

Once the dealer shows his cards, the players cannot touch theirs. You are also not allowed to show your hands or talk to the other players about them before all cards are exposed. Any player's hand that is arranged incorrectly (e.g. the two-card low hand ranks higher than the five-card high hand, or the player puts three cards in the low hand and four cards in the high hand, etc.) is deemed to be an automatic loser. Sorry about that, pal, but you should have paid attention. I told you, Pai Gow is not an easy game but it is one you will definitely enjoy playing and you will be master in pai gow poker.

Some Basic Advice on dos and don’ts in poker check it out.

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Learn Pai Gow Poker