How to Win at Pai Gow

There are two things I love to learn about — the history of marine life and gambling games. Without any doubt, Pai Gow has the most impressive history I know of. Originating in China with dominoes, Pai Gow today is played with cards.

This game combines luck and strategy, where thoughtful decisions can influence outcomes. Let’s explore how to win at Pai Gow.

Understanding Pai Gow Basics 

While Pai Gow rules aren’t the simplest, they’re easy to grasp with a little focus.

Mastermind Jake’s Strategies for Pai Gow

You should now know that my winning tricks and strategies always pay off! If not, try out these during your next Pai Gow session. You’ll thank me later! (don’t hesitate to do so in the comments section below).

Proper Hand Setting

Distribute your cards wisely. Focus on making your five-card hand stronger, but balance is key—don’t make one hand too dominant. For instance, with 2 4 7 9 9 10 K, put the two 9s in your front hand and the rest in the back.

Banking When Possible

To be honest, I rarely do this, but that doesn’t mean it is not a good thing. At some tables, you can get the chance to be a banker.

Acting as the banker allows you to win tie bets, giving you a significant edge. To qualify, you must have enough funds to cover other players’ wagers.

Understanding House Ways

Using “House Ways” lets the dealer arrange your cards to maximize potential wins. For example, high cards often go to the weaker hand, while stronger pairs stay in the back. Experiment with this feature to see how it affects your Pai Gow rounds. 

Cards can be arranged this way: 

• If you don’t have a pair, the second and third-highest cards go to the weaker hand. 
• With one pair, two high cards go in front. 
• If you have two pairs, they go in the backhand if you also have an A.
• Lucky players with three cards will get the highest pair put in the front part. 

I won’t explain each one separately, but I am sure that you understand the system of functioning. It is a cool feature, to be honest.

Managing Bankroll and Bets

Proper bankroll management ensures longer, more enjoyable sessions. Follow these steps:

1. Set a Budget: Decide your monthly Pai Gow spending and number of sessions.
2. Flat Betting: Keep bets consistent to maintain control.
3. Factor in Commissions: Remember, certain wins have deductions.
4. Take Breaks: Schedule mini-breaks to maintain focus and avoid burnout.
5. Track Results: Use a notebook or smartphone to log wins and losses, helping you identify when to stop.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Pai Gow

Despite analyzing my rounds, I also like to analyze the patterns and behaviors of other players. Based on those, I have concluded that different people make the same mistakes. 

Here are five of them that you should know about:

1. Inadequate hand settling: I already told you how the hands should be settled. The high card should stay in the “larger hand”. Repeat that method all the time. 
2. Neglecting the role of the banker: I also make this sort of mistake because being a banker somehow seems dumb to me. Yet, it really brings certain benefits, such as winning at a tie bet. 
3. Overemphasis on bonus bets: Bonus bets are fine, but don’t overdo it. That’s not going to bring you a lot of cash. 
4. Ignoring commission costs: You will ask yourself, “Where is my money?”  if eventual commissions are not part of your calculations.
5. Playing without understanding the rules: Would you compete in basketball if you do not know the rules? Exactly! Gambling, in general, requires education. You need to get familiar with all the basic rules before starting the sessions.  

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Pai Gow offers a mix of strategy and chance, but it’s best suited for experienced players due to its complex rules. Master hand setting, and you’ll enjoy more rewarding sessions.

Looking for a much easier casino game? Check out my guide on winning strategies for Sic Bo. It’s perfect for beginners!

Frequently Asked Questions