Can You Play Pai Gow Poker Online?
Have you ever wondered if you can play lesser-known casino games such as Pai Gow Poker online? Online casinos offer many options, and navigating the different games to find one that suits your preferences can sometimes be difficult for beginners.
In this guide we’ll cover the ins and outs of Pai Gow Poker, including information on the rules, hand rankings, payouts, and responsible ways to explore Pai Gow Poker and similar games online. Read on to learn more.
Pai Gow Poker Game Summary
Pai Gow Poker is a card game that blends elements of traditional poker with the ancient Chinese game of Pai Gow, which dates back several centuries. The original Pai Gow game was played with Chinese dominoes and has a long history as a popular gambling game in China. Pai Gow Poker was developed later as a variation using a standard deck of playing cards, with the addition of a joker to introduce new strategic possibilities.
The modern version of Pai Gow Poker gained popularity in casinos outside of Asia in the late 20th century, offering players a different way to enjoy poker with a slower pace and unique hand arrangements. It has since become a staple in many casinos worldwide, including those licensed in the UK, where it is regulated to ensure fair play and player protection.
While the rules and variations of Pai Gow Poker may differ slightly depending on the venue or platform, the game’s historical roots highlight its evolution from a traditional Chinese pastime into a widely recognised card game in the casino world.
How Online Pai Gow Poker Works
Online Pai Gow Poker is available on some UK-licensed casino websites, either as a digital game or with a live dealer streamed on camera. You play against the dealer, with cards shuffled and dealt using regulated methods. This might involve Random Number Generator (RNG) software or a real dealer handling cards live under supervision.
After placing a bet, players receive their seven cards. You then arrange them into two hands: a five-card “high hand” and a two-card “low hand.”
On digital versions, the interface allows you to split and confirm your hands. Some games offer an automatic arrangement feature, but you may prefer to set the hands manually.
Once the hands are set, the dealer’s cards are revealed, and the outcome is settled automatically. If instructions are unclear, game help sections could provide additional guidance.
The Rules Every Player Should Know
Pai Gow Poker uses the poker hand ranking system and a single standard deck plus one joker. Your goal is to create two hands (one five-card and one two-card) that rank higher than the dealer’s corresponding hands.
The five-card hand must rank higher than the two-card hand. The joker acts as an extra ace or helps complete a straight or flush in the five-card hand.
After arranging your hands, the dealer reveals theirs. Both hands are compared individually to the dealer’s. Winning both hands results in a payout; winning one hand returns your original stake; losing both hands means losing your wager.
Some casinos offer side bets or special rules, which can differ. It might be helpful to check the terms and the Return To Player (RTP) rates at each site before playing.
Types of Pai Gow Poker Hands
Your five-card hand follows the standard poker hand rankings, listed from highest to lowest as follows:
- Five Aces (using the joker)
- Royal Flush
- Straight Flush
- Four of a Kind
- Full House
- Flush
- Straight
- Three of a Kind
- Two Pair
- One Pair
- High Card
In Pai Gow Poker, the joker has a limited role. It can be used as an additional ace, or to complete a straight or flush in the five-card hand.
The two-card hand is more restricted and can only consist of a pair or two individual cards. These are ranked according to traditional poker values, with the higher-ranking card determining the strength of the hand in the case of two unpaired cards.
Payout Calculations in Pai Gow Poker
Payouts in Pai Gow Poker are typically simple to understand. If both of your hands rank higher than the dealer’s, the usual payout is even money (1:1) on your winnings, with a standard commission often applied. For instance, a winning £10 bet might return the original stake plus £9.50 in winnings after a 5% commission, resulting in a total return of £19.50.
Some game variants remove the commission but adjust other rules to maintain balance. It could be useful to review the specific payout structure and any details regarding commission or bonus features before taking part in a game.
If only one of your hands beats the dealer’s, the result is typically a push, meaning your original stake is returned. If both hands lose, the stake is usually forfeited. Optional side bets, where available, are settled separately and come with different odds and house edges. The RTP for Pai Gow Poker tends to be around 97%, though this figure can vary depending on the casino and the specific version of the game.
Finding Pai Gow Poker Online in the UK
Choosing a suitable and UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) licensed casino is key if you want to try new card games online. At Bet442, you’ll find a wide range of casino options, all displayed clearly so that players can make sense of what’s on offer. Whether classic tables, modern slots, or live games interest you, our website aims to make choosing and learning simple.
While Pai Gow Poker isn’t currently available at Bet 442, you’ll find peace of mind in our licensed setting and safe, player-focused features. Our site offers straightforward payment options, practical game instructions, and support you can count on if you have questions.
Whether you’re exploring casino games for the first time or seeking something different, Bet 442’s clear layout and helpful information make it easy to get started. Feel free to browse, learn at your own pace, and enjoy a secure gaming experience. Always remember to gamble responsibly and within your means- never wager more than you can afford to lose.
**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.