Pai Gow Poker: A Detailed Guide to an Exciting Poker Fusion

Pai Gow Poker was created by Sam Torosian, the Bell Card Club owner in Los Angeles, in 1985. Inspired by the traditional Chinese game Pai Gow, Torosian introduced poker elements to create a new play that would attract more players. Unfortunately, he never patented the game, missing out on enormous profits as it became an instant hit in casinos across the United States and abroad.

The blend of familiar poker play with exotic elements captured players' imaginations, and Pai Gow Poker has since become a staple in both physical and online casinos worldwide.

The game begins with each player posting a table minimum ante. The cards are shuffled by the dealer, who then deals out seven cards to each player. This is done even if less than a maximum of six players are sitting at the table. The player to receive the first deal is determined by the banker either electronically or manually using dice, counting clockwise several steps corresponding to the total number of spots on three dice. 

Each player examines their seven cards and arrays them into one five-card hand and a second two-card hand. This is more complicated than it sounds because several possible hand displays exist for each set of seven cards. Once the player has decided on his two hands, he places them on the table in unique places marked for this purpose - the two-card hand is placed in front, with the five-card hand behind. 

The game's object is to beat both of the dealer's hands. The following outcomes are possible: 

• Both player's hands beat the dealer's - The player wins
• One of the player's hands beats the dealer's - "Push" - nobody wins
• One of the player's hands equals the dealer's - "Copy" - at a tie, the dealer wins
• Both dealer's hands beat the player's - The dealer wins

One further rule is that each player's five-card hand must have a higher value than their two-card hand. For example, a player cannot show an ace-high hand with his five-card hand and a pair in his two-card hand. If the player makes an error, the dealer calls a foul, and the player loses the hand.

Basic Rules:

1. Deck and Setup: Played with a 53-card deck, including a joker that can be used as an ace or to complete a flush or straight.
2. Hands Formation: Players receive seven cards and divide them into two hands: a five-card high hand and a two-card low hand.
3. Ranking: The five-card hand must outrank the two-card hand.
4. Winning: To win, both player hands must beat the dealer's hands.
5. Push: If a player wins one hand and loses the other, the bet is a push.
6. Joker: Used as a wild card in certain situations.
7. Banker: The role of banker rotates among players, adding a unique twist.

Mastering Pai Gow Poker requires understanding the subtle complexities of the game and adopting a well-thought-out strategy. While the fusion of poker and Pai Gow brings forth unique elements, applying a sound strategy can greatly enhance your odds of success. In this section, we'll explore the key components of Pai Gow Poker strategy, from properly splitting hands and utilizing the joker to comprehending the 'house way' and understanding when to play the banker. Whether you're a newcomer or an experienced player, these strategies provide vital insights to make informed decisions and turn the odds in your favor.

Payouts in Pai Gow Poker are usually even money, minus a 5% commission on winning bets. A push (win one hand, lose the other) returns the player's bet. Some casinos offer side bets and bonuses, such as payouts for specific hand combinations or for beating the dealer with certain hands. Understanding these can add complexity and excitement to the game but often come with a higher house edge.

Pai Gow Poker is a game rich in character and history. Some intriguing facts include:

1. Pai Gow translates to "make nine," referring to the Chinese game's goal.
2. It's one of the best games for prolonging a bankroll due to frequent pushes.
3. The game's inventor, Sam Torosian, never patented it, losing out on potential millions.
4. Strategies can differ greatly between Western and Eastern players.
5. Pai Gow Poker can be found with live dealers in online casinos.
6. The role of the banker can rotate among players, a rare feature in casino games.
7. Side bets and variations exist, such as Fortune Pai Gow.
8. It's considered one of the more social and relaxed casino games.
9. The house edge is relatively low, especially when playing optimally.
10. The game has a significant following in online gaming communities.