Pai Gow Poker Online: Everything You Need to Know
Pai Gow Poker is a game that blends elements of traditional Chinese gaming with aspects of Western-style poker. Originating from a tile-based game played in China, it has since been adapted into a card game that can now be found on licensed gambling websites in the UK.
In this blog post, you’ll learn more about the background of Pai Gow Poker, how the game is played, and how to engage with it in a safe and informed way in line with UK regulations. Read on to learn more.
Why Choose Pai Gow Poker?
Pai Gow Poker can be a distinctive choice for those exploring online card games. Its slower pace may potentially feel more approachable, particularly for individuals who are new to poker-style games. With fewer hands played per hour compared to other poker variants, there is often more time to consider each decision.
A notable feature of Pai Gow Poker is the need to form two separate hands from the cards dealt, which introduces a basic level of strategy. This aspect may appeal to those who appreciate a game that involves both chance and decision-making, without requiring fast-paced play.
In certain versions of the game, it’s possible for a round to end in a draw (often referred to as a “push”) where neither the player nor the dealer wins. This can contribute to a longer playing session. While experiences will vary, Pai Gow Poker presents an alternative format that differs from many other traditional card games found online.
Playing Pai Gow Poker: Step by Step
To get started, select a Pai Gow Poker game offered by a licensed UK gambling website. You will then place a bet, with minimum stake amounts generally beginning around £1, although this can vary depending on the specific operator.
Both you and the dealer will receive seven cards, dealt from a standard 52-card deck that includes one Joker. In most online versions, the Joker can be used as an Ace, or to complete a straight, flush, or straight flush in the five-card hand. It typically cannot be used in the two-card hand unless it acts as an Ace.
Your task is to arrange your seven cards into two separate hands: a five-card “high” hand and a two-card “low” hand. The five-card hand must rank higher than the two-card hand according to standard poker rankings.
Once your hands are set, they are compared to the dealer’s hands. If both of your hands beat the dealer’s, the bet wins. If one hand wins and the other loses, the round is considered a push, and your stake is returned. If both hands lose, the stake is lost. In the event of a tie, referred to as a “copy”, the hand is usually awarded to the dealer.
Some versions of Pai Gow Poker may include optional side bets or slight rule variations depending on the provider. It might be helpful to review the rules specific to the table you’re playing at, as formats and features can differ.
Pai Gow Poker’s Main Rules
While the core rules of Pai Gow Poker remain largely the same, there can be slight differences depending on the software provider or the version of the game being played.
The five-card high hand must always rank higher than the two-card low hand.
The Joker is most commonly used to complete a straight, flush, or straight flush in the five-card hand. If none of these combinations are possible, it typically functions as an Ace.
If the two-card hand ends up ranking higher than the five-card hand, this is considered a fouled hand, which usually results in a loss. In the case of a tie, known as a “copy,” the hand is awarded to the dealer. This rule applies to both the high and low hands.
Most games will allow you to view the paytable and details of any additional features; taking a moment to read these could potentially provide clarity on how that specific version works.
All games offered by UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)-licensed operators must meet fairness standards, which include clear terms and the use of independently tested Random Number Generators (RNGs) to ensure each outcome is random and not influenced by previous rounds.
Recognising Hand Values
Arranging your hands effectively depends on being familiar with standard poker rankings. In the two-card hand, you’ll only have either a pair or two single cards, with Aces ranking highest.
The five-card hand follows usual poker hand rankings. The best possible hand is five Aces (four Aces and the Joker), followed by a Royal Flush, Straight Flush, Four of a Kind, and so on down to a High Card.
If you’ve played other forms of poker, the ranking structure will be familiar. If you’re not sure about the strength of a hand in a specific version, you could consider checking the game’s guide or paytable; these are often accessible before the round starts.
How Pai Gow Poker Pays Out
If both of your hands beat the dealer’s, your bet returns even money, minus a commission. A 5% commission is commonly applied to winning bets. For example, if you win a £5 bet, the return is £5 in winnings plus your £5 stake, minus £0.25 commission.
If one hand wins and one loses, the outcome is a push and your original bet is returned. If both hands are beaten, the stake is lost. Tied hands are given to the dealer, resulting in a loss.
Some versions may offer optional side bets. These allow you to bet on achieving specific card combinations across your seven cards. Side bets usually involve different payout structures and are settled separately from the main hand. These bets tend to carry a higher house edge than the main game.
All licensed UK casino sites are required to provide transparent information about game rules, payout rates, and house edges, so this information is accessible before you begin.
Is Pai Gow Poker Offered Online?
Pai Gow Poker is available at several UK casino sites regulated by the UKGC. It can be found among the table games section, often listed alongside blackjack, roulette, and other poker formats.
You’ll usually find both digital versions, which use RNG software, and live dealer versions, where a human dealer deals cards in real time. Regardless of format, you play against the dealer.
Some sites may include different layouts or variations of Pai Gow Poker. Differences may include side bets, paytable adjustments, or additional game features. The core gameplay remains the same across versions, but reviewing the rules at each table could help you decide which version suits you best.
Comparing With Other Online Poker Games
Pai Gow Poker focuses on how you organise your own cards. You are not competing against other players. This differs from traditional multiplayer poker formats, such as Texas Hold’em or Omaha, where strategic betting and reading opponents play a key role.
Video poker games such as Jacks or Better involve drawing to a single five-card hand and offer fixed payouts for certain combinations. These are played solo and follow a different rhythm.
If you prefer poker games that allow for more time and less focus on betting rounds, Pai Gow Poker presents an alternative structure. Each version can vary slightly, so reviewing the format and available features can help when deciding where to play.
Pai Gow Poker’s format includes decision-making, frequent pushes, and a step-by-step process that may appeal to certain players. By checking the rules, house edge, and table features, you might find a version that fits your approach.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.