Mastering the Rules of Spades: A Comprehensive Guide

Illustration of Spades gameplay showcasing card positioning

Intro

Spades is not just a card game; it’s a blend of strategy, skill, and a fair bit of luck. With a history rooted in social gatherings and backroom chats, it’s found a home in both casual settings and competitive tournaments. Understanding the rules of Spades is not merely about knowing how to play, but about comprehending the subtleties that can make or break a game. In this piece, we aim to shed light on every essential rule, gameplay method, and common pitfalls that players face while navigating through the intricacies of Spades. Whether you’re a novice contemplating your first game or an adept player looking to polish your tactics, this guide is designed with you in mind.

Gaming Strategies

Effective Spades Techniques

In the game of Spades, having a few tricks up your sleeve can lead to victory. Here are some effective techniques to keep in mind:

Know Your Cards: Before jumping into the fray, take a moment to evaluate the cards you've drawn. Keeping track of high-value cards and your partner’s style can tilt the balance in your favor.
Bidding Wisely: Don’t bid high based on just one or two aces. Assess your entire hand and remember that sometimes it’s best to underestimate rather than overestimate your potential.
Communication with Partner: In Spades, especially if played with partners, subtle non-verbal cues can be a game-changer. Signals about your hand can enhance teamwork and lead to strategic plays that might not be possible alone.

"Bidding is like forecasting the weather; you need to be cautious to avoid storms."

Tips and Tricks for Gameplay

Playing Spades doesn’t have to be a daunting task. A few well-placed tips can elevate your performance:

Track Cards: Keep mental notes of the suits that have been played. This awareness allows you to adjust your strategy in real-time and anticipate opponents' moves.
Use Trump Wisely: The trump suit can turn the tide. Use your Spades judiciously, saving them for crucial moments when opponents may not expect it.
Avoid Setting Too High a Target: Playing conservatively can sometimes lead to unexpected wins. Often, the best bid is the one that feels comfortable, rather than one pushing to its limits.

Industry Insights

While Spades may not be a casino game in the traditional sense, it does reflect broader trends within the gaming industry and the evolving landscape of card games.

Latest Trends in Card Games

The resurgence of classic card games speaks volumes about their enduring appeal. As digital platforms rise, there are now apps available that host Spades games, attracting a younger audience drawn to both nostalgia and innovation. Educators and social planners are increasingly using games like Spades in workshops to build teamwork and strategic planning skills among participants.

Regulatory Developments and Changes

As with any popular pastime, regulations surrounding card games can shift. Social distancing brought on by the pandemic has prompted more online platforms to adopt stringent measures to keep players secure while enjoying their favorite games. It’s essential to stay updated on these changes, particularly if you find yourself playing Spades in a competitive setting.

For more robust discussions on game strategies and regulations, consider exploring resources at Wikipedia and Reddit.
Intrigued? Next, let’s dive into the gameplay and scoring systems that shape your experience in Spades.

Prelims to Spades

Spades is more than just a card game; it embodies a social fabric woven through history, culture, and various personal experiences. At its core, understanding the essential elements of Spades helps players grasp the nuances that can make or break their game. Unlike many other games that flit about in complexity, Spades offers a compelling yet straightforward journey that appeals to both novices and seasoned gamblers alike. This introductory section lays the groundwork for all that follows, outlining what lies beneath the surface of this timeless pastime.

Historical Background

The origins of Spades can be traced back to the 1930s in the United States, where it was likely born from the intellectual fusion of various card games. Some historians pin it down to a combination of Bid Whist and bridge, blending the intricate social strategy of those classics with simple yet competitive mechanics. You might say it’s a game born out of a sense of camaraderie in the midst of the Great Depression, allowing folks to find joy and connection with a simple deck of cards. Throughout the decades, Spades evolved, crossing social borders and becoming a staple at gatherings, parties, and even family dinners.

Popularity and Cultural Significance

In many ways, Spades is more than just a game; it’s a gathering point. You’ll find it rearing its head across different social strata, whether it’s in living rooms, community centers, or online platforms. The game's appeal stems from its balanced blend of skill and luck, creating an engaging environment for both competition and collaboration.

"Spades isn’t merely a pastime; it's a ritual for many groups that fosters unity and even some rivalries."

In African American communities, particularly, the game has carved a niche, reflecting a cultural history that values togetherness and strategy. Celebrated in national tournaments, its prominence spans different age groups, intertwining with contemporary social experiences. This game allows every player, regardless of background, to connect through the simple act of playing cards. It does this uniquely—fueling friendships and competition all at once, which is why it remains a beloved classic.

In summary, understanding Spades begins not only with the basic rules and gameplay but also with our grasp of its rich history and cultural significance. This game connects players across generations and situations, enriching both the game itself and the shared experiences it fosters.

Basic Rules of Spades

The basic rules of Spades are the backbone of the game, laying the foundation on which the entire experience is built. It's like understanding the lay of the land before embarking on a hike—without it, you might find yourself wandering in circles. For both newcomers and seasoned players, mastering these rules can turn frustration into enjoyment, ensuring that everyone has a good time. Moreover, knowing the basic rules allows for a level playing field, fostering a sense of camaraderie among friends and family.

Game Objective

At its core, the objective of Spades is to accurately predict how many tricks your partnership can win in each round. A trick consists of one card played by each player, and the winner is determined by the highest-ranking card of the leading suit or spades, if played. Players score points based on their bids, and the goal is to reach a predetermined score, typically 500 points, before your opponents do. This emphasis on both bidding and winning tricks creates a layer of strategy, where players must not just look at their cards, but also gauge their partners’ capabilities and their opponents’ weaknesses.

The thrill lies in the anticipation—can a player trust their instincts about their hand to secure the necessary tricks? Here, communication is key. Consider the following points:

Predicting accurately is crucial to developing a winning strategy.
Under or overbidding can significantly alter the game's outcome.
Each round provides an opportunity for tactical adjustments.

Setup and Player Roles

Setting up a game of Spades is straightforward, yet essential for smooth gameplay. Traditionally, Spades is played with four players in partnerships. The setup involves dealing 52 cards (using a standard deck) so each player has 13 cards. Players should sit across from their partners to promote coordinated teamwork.

Understanding player roles is pivotal:

Partners: Each pair works collaboratively to reach their combined bid. Success depends on the ability to support one another, especially when to play high cards or to defer to one another’s strengths.
The Dealer: Often rotates clockwise; the dealer is responsible for shuffling and dealing the cards. It’s a small but vital role that sets the tone for the game.

Visual representation of Spades scoring system

The social aspect of partnerships adds another layer of enjoyment, as players will start picking up on each other’s signals and strategies over time, leading to friendships that flourish beyond the game.

Card Rankings

Understanding card rankings is similarly essential for mastering Spades. The order of the cards is simple, yet vital:

Spades: The highest suit, beating all other suits.
Hearts
Diamonds
Clubs

Within the suit of spades, the Ace is the highest card, followed in rank by the King, Queen, etc. This ranking plays a critical role during play.

Additionally, when a round initiates and spades have not yet been played, the standard protocol is to follow the suit of the leading card.

One notable aspect of Spades is that not all players have the same value attached to their cards at every moment; the situation dictates their strength. Being attuned to this fluidity can greatly enhance one’s strategic acumen.

Remember: In Spades, a lower-ranking card can sometimes outsmart an Ace when timing and strategy come into play.

Mastering the basic rules will no doubt provide a solid foundation for enjoying the game. Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills or start fresh, understanding these key elements elevates each play session. As players become more acquainted with the basic rules, they can then delve deeper into advanced strategies and variations that truly make Spades an enduring classic.

Gameplay Mechanics

Understanding gameplay mechanics is essential for mastering Spades. These mechanics shape how players interact with the game, impacting the overall flow and strategy. Grasping these elements not only enhances your enjoyment but also boosts your chances of winning. Key components, such as dealing cards, playing the game, and understanding tricks, form the crux of effective gameplay.

Dealing Cards

Dealing is the first major step in Spades and sets the tone for the entire game. Each player gets 13 cards, distributed face down. The method you use for dealing can lead to different player dynamics. A random shuffle ensures no one has a particular advantage, keeping things fair and square. Players familiarize themselves with their hands, gauging their potential to win tricks and contribute to their team's bid.

Here’s a quick rundown of the dealing process:

Shuffle the Deck: Ensure a proper mix to avoid patterns.
Distribute Cards: Hand out 13 cards, moving clockwise around the table.
Organize Hands: Players should sort their cards, usually by suit or value, to strategize better.

It’s crucial to approach the dealing stage with a keen eye. An uneven deal can create frustration and lead to disputes. Ensuring clarity during this process lays a solid foundation for the subsequent rounds, where a fair start can lead to more enjoyable, competitive play.

Playing the Game

Once cards are dealt, play begins. This phase is where the strategy comes into play—both in how you interact with your teammates and how you respond to your opponents. Each player lays down one card per round, and the highest card of the lead suit wins the trick, with Spades being the commanding trump suit.

Playing well involves:

Communicating With Your Partner: Use bids to signal to your partner your hand's strength, whether strong or weak.
Keeping Track of Cards: Being aware of what has already been played can help you make more informed choices.
Understanding When to Play Spades: Deploy Spades wisely, preferably when you’re confident it will win the trick.

This dynamic creates an ongoing tension, pushing players to read one another's intentions. Balancing aggressive plays with defensive tactics emerges as a finely honed skill in Spades, separating the amateurs from the seasoned hands.

Understanding Tricks

Tricks are the essence of Spades; they not only determine scoring but also heavily influence strategy. A trick consists of one card played from each player in a single round. The player with the highest card in the lead suit wins that trick, unless Spades have been played. Knowing how to win tricks effectively can make or break your game.

Key takeaways about tricks include:

Follow the Lead: If a suit is led, you must play a card from that suit if you have one.
Utilizing Trumps: Save your Spades for crucial moments; they can turn the tide of a game.
Counting Your Tricks: Keep track of what you and your partner win against what the opposing team achieves.

"Winning a trick isn't just about having the highest card; it's about timing, strategy, and sometimes a bit of luck."

In essence, developing a keen understanding of tricks transforms the game from simple card play into an intricate dance of strategy. Through clever plays and teamwork, you can navigate through the complexities of Spades, ensuring your success in this classic card game.

Bidding Process

The bidding process in Spades stands as a cornerstone of the game, intricately tied to both strategy and excitement. This phase not only determines how many tricks a team believes they can take but also sets the stage for competition and collaboration among players. Understanding how to bid effectively can make or break your chances of winning, turning what might otherwise be a casual round of play into a nail-biting contest of wits.

Making a Bid

When it comes to making a bid in Spades, it's essential to evaluate your cards thoughtfully. Players typically state how many tricks they expect to win in a round, laying the groundwork for their game plan. Bids can vary widely, from a conservative "nil"—betting that you will not win any tricks—to an optimistic declaration of a high number. To approach your bid:

Evaluate Your Hand: Take a gander at your cards. A hand rich in high-ranked cards, especially spades, can lead to ambitious bids. Conversely, a weak hand may suggest a more cautious approach.
Communication with Partner: Though Spades allows for limited verbal communication during the game, non-verbal cues can play a role. For instance, subtle gestures or eye contact can help signal confidence or uncertainty about one's hand, guiding your bids collectively.
Consider Opponents: Reflect on the bidding patterns of opponents. If they tend to play aggressively, estimating their potential performance can help tailor your strategy.

Strategies for Bidding

Bidding in Spades also entails strategic depth, with several different approaches players can take. Here are some noteworthy tactics to consider:

Bid Based on Strength: A common strategy involves basing your bid upon a realistic assessment of your cards' potential. If you hold a variety of face cards and spades, an overbid might be warranted. However, overbidding often leads to penalties, so it's critical to discern when to push your limits.
Adapting Your Bidding Style: Pay attention to the flow of the game. If the bidding ends up too conservative, adjusting your approach to bid more aggressively can shake up the dynamics and pressure your opponents.
Partnering Effectively: Your partner can be your greatest ally during this phase. Bidding in tandem, based on mutual strengths and weaknesses, can balance risks and lead to better outcomes. For instance, if one partner has a weak hand but wants to bid nil, the other can adjust their expectations accordingly.

"In Spades, the bid is not just about cards. It's about calculating risk, establishing trust, and sometimes taking calculated leaps of faith."

No doubt, the nuances of the bidding process will enrich your Spades experience. Engage fully with your partners and opponents, and remember that each bid is a step in a larger dance of strategy and teamwork.

Scoring in Spades

Understanding how scoring works in Spades is crucial for both the enjoyment and success of the game. Scoring determines who wins or loses and can often lead to some heated moments. In any card game, keeping score acts as the scoreboard, reflecting a team’s strategies and performances. Plus, it helps players measure their advancement through continuous practice. In this section, we will dive deep into how scores are calculated, the significance of winning, and some strategies that intertwine with the scoring system.

Calculating Points

In Spades, the point system is relatively straightforward once you get the hang of it. Each player must keep track of their bids against the actual number of tricks they make. Here’s how it generally breaks down:

Basic Points: Each trick is worth 1 point. However, Spades—always trump cards—allocate extra weight to gameplay. If a team wins their announced bid, they earn points based on the tricks they collected. If not, they lose points.
Bidding Effect: If the bid is accurate, points are scored equal to the number of tricks won. Conversely, exceeding the bid can lead to 'bags'. Accumulating too many bags can bring penalties against your total score. A bag usually counts as a little extra, but if you go over a pre-agreeable threshold often, you might risk some severe deductions.
Nil Bids: A nil bid means a player is claiming they will not take any tricks and promise as much with their play. If they succeed, their team gets bonus points—if they lose tricks, however, the team loses points. Adding excitement, a nil holds significant strategic weight.

"Every trick is a point, but every point is an opportunity. Be mindful of your strategy as you keep score!"

In essence, keeping tabs on these scores not only affects victory conditions but also serves as guidance on how to tweak your gameplay accordingly. So, be cautious with the bids and understand how exchanging tricks can influence your outcome through precise calculations!

Winning the Game

Winning at Spades isn't merely about accruing points; it involves grasping the whole scoring system and understanding not just your performance but that of your opponents as well. The first team to reach a predetermined score—often 500 points—declares victory. But what does that entail in practical terms?

Here are some insights:

Achieving the Target: It's not just about reaching that glory score. Your understanding of scoring is pivotal; repeatedly hitting the same successful numbers often requires player communication and strategy development.
Complementary Win Conditions: Beyond just hitting 500 points, consider how your decisions influence game dynamics. If one indeed plays the long game, it’s essential to flip the competition on its head with shrewd tactical plays and builds that grab unwanted bags for opponents.
Monitor the Board: Constantly keeping an eye on your opponents' scores aids in formation of strategy. Do they need a few points to cross the finish line? If you shift your gameplay to secure their bags while protecting your own score, victory can emerge from tight situations.

In Spades, more than just playing cards is at stake; it involves keen-minded adaptations to sort out your winning edge. Utilize the knowledge of scoring and strategy intertwined, and thus, your journey to victory becomes significantly clearer and achievable.

Strategies for Winning

When it comes to Spades, having a strategy in your back pocket can be the difference between a win and a loss. It’s more than just playing your cards right; it’s about understanding the dynamics of the game, anticipating opponents’ moves, and adjusting your approach accordingly. The strategic aspect of Spades is vital not only for winning its hands but also for creating an enjoyable environment for all players involved.

Defensive Play

Defensive play is all about protecting your score and minimizing your losses. If you can read the table well and adapt, you become harder to beat. Here are some key points to keep in mind when implementing effective defensive tactics:

Watch Your Opponents: Pay attention to what cards they play, especially the high-value ones. This information can guide you in deciding how to play your own cards.
Hold Back High Cards When Necessary: Don’t always rush to play your highest cards. Sometimes, it pays to hold back until you understand how the round is unfolding. This way, you can dictate the play when it counts.
Communicate with Your Partner: If you’re playing in partners format, discussing your strategies without tipping off your opponents is crucial. Awareness of each other’s cards and strategies can make or break a game.

A common pitfall in defensive play is overextending your strategy. While being cautious is beneficial, it can backfire if it leads to missed points that could have been easily secured. Just like in professional sports, timing in Spades is everything.

"In Spades, as in life, preparation and awareness are your best allies."

Offensive Tactics

On the flip side, offensive tactics aim to claim tricks and control the game flow. Here are some strategies for making the most out of your aggressive play:

Understand Bidding: If you bid correctly and play aggressively, you can build momentum. Take calculated risks when you feel confident about your hand.
Force Your Opponents into Tough Positions: Learn to manipulate the pace of the game. If you know they lack high cards, lead with strong plays. This pressure can lead to mistakes.
Utilize Trump Cards Wisely: Spades are trump cards and can break ties or win against lower suits. Use them strategically to capture key tricks when necessary.

Employing a balanced combination of both offensive and defensive strategies can elevate your overall gameplay. It’s important to be flexible. The more adaptable you are, the more difficult you will be to outmaneuver.

Common Variations of Spades

Variations in Spades bring a fresh twist to the game, inviting players to explore different styles and strategies. Understanding these variations is key, as they can alter the fundamental dynamics and tactics employed during play. Each version adds its own flavor, allowing for tailored experiences that can fit various player preferences and group dynamics. Let’s dive into two popular variations — Partner Spades and Solo Spades — each with its unique set of rules and gameplay nuances.

Partner Spades

The essence of Partner Spades lies in teamwork. In this variation, two sets of players join forces to compete against each other, requiring collaboration and strategic communication. Players sit opposite their partners at the table, which creates a friendly yet competitive atmosphere.

Benefits of Partner Spades

Strategic Depth: Cooperation can lead to more intricate gameplay, as partners can signal intentions using bidding behavior and card play.
Increased Interaction: This format encourages discussion and planning, further enhancing the social experience of the game.
Diverse Strategies: Teams can develop various strategies that leverage the strengths of individual players, leading to a dynamic and adaptable gameplay style.

"Playing in pairs can double the fun and often makes the game more about the team rather than individual success."

Considerations for Partner Spades

Players need to be mindful of the importance of non-verbal cues and clear communication to prevent misunderstandings. Bids made by one partner can impact the choices of the other, meaning that strategic synergy is essential. Missteps in communication may lead to unwanted outcomes that can sabotage an otherwise solid game plan.

Solo Spades

On the other side of the coin, Solo Spades showcases individual skill and strategy. This variation presents a more competitive environment as each player acts independently, trying to outsmart their opponents without the support of a partner. The nature of the game becomes a battle of wits and individual tactics, often leading to exciting plays and unexpected outcomes.

Benefits of Solo Spades

Variations of Spades and their unique rules

Pure Skill Showcase: Players have the chance to demonstrate their abilities without reliance on someone else, which can be a gratifying experience.
Simplified Rules: Without needing to coordinate with a partner, the rules become streamlined, making it easier for new players to grasp.
Focus on Individual Strategy: Every decision counts heavily, and players can develop their personal style, adapting their strategies based on opponents' tendencies.

Considerations for Solo Spades

In solo play, maintaining awareness of the rival's strategies and bidding habits is crucial. Players need to be vigilant and analytical, as overlooking an opponent's patterns can quickly lead to defeat. The game can be intense, ensuring that each player remains on their toes, contributing to the thrill and excitement of solo competition.

Mistakes to Avoid

Playing Spades can be a real thrill, but a few common pitfalls can crash the party and turn a fun game into a frustrating experience. Understanding these mistakes is crucial for both novice and seasoned players. By recognizing what not to do, you can navigate the game more effectively, boosting your chances of victory and enjoying the process.

Overbidding

One of the fastest ways to derail your game is through overbidding. This happens when a player bids more on their hand than they can realistically achieve. For instance, if you have a modest hand, yet you shoot for the stars, hoping to win, it often backfires. Your confidence can turn into a hefty score penalty.

Why is this a problem? Overbidding leads not just to the loss of the points you aimed for but also incurs a penalty that can significantly impact the final score.
How to avoid it? Evaluate your hand closely. It’s easy to get caught up in excitement, but it’s crucial to remain realistic about your potential tricks. To help you out, consider these tips:

Count your high cards and potential spades
Discuss your strategy with your partner before bidding
Stick to a conservative approach when unsure

Getting your bids right isn’t just about luck; it’s about gauging your hand's strength and potential.

Miscommunication with Partners

The art of playing Spades also involves seamless communication with your partner. A simple misunderstanding can lead to wild bids or disastrous plays.

What does this look like? Imagine your partner assumes you’re playing aggressively, but you had intended to take it easy. That could spell disaster when you lead off with a high card or decide to shy away from your hand’s capabilities.
How to sidestep this issue? Clarity is key. Make sure you are on the same wavelength with your partner:

Use consistent signals. For example, if willing to play aggressively, communicate this with a pre-agreed gesture or verbal cue
Discuss strategies before the game begins, laying out each player's expectations
Take cues from how your partner plays in the early rounds.

It's about teamwork, and honing your communication can keep your game strong and cohesive.

Effective communication transforms a simple card game into a strategic battle of wits.

By recognizing these common mistakes—overbidding and miscommunication—players can navigate their games with a more tactical mindset. This not only improves the chances of winning but also enhances the enjoyment of the game. Remember, Spades is about skill, strategy, and a good partnership!

Tools and Resources for Players

Understanding the game of Spades extends beyond just memorizing the rules. The real mastery comes from utilizing effective tools and resources. These aids enhance your gameplay and teach you strategies that can take you from a casual player to a formidable opponent. With a plethora of resources available today, players can adapt their learning styles, making the experience more enjoyable and efficient. So whether you're looking to refine your skills or just dive into the game, tapping into the right tools can make a world of difference.

Online Platforms

In the digital age, online platforms have mushroomed, connecting Spades enthusiasts from every corner of the globe. These platforms provide not just a place to play, but a way to meet other players, participate in tournaments, and even utilize practice modes to hone your skills. Websites like Pogo or Bridge Base Online allow players to engage in both casual and competitive play, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Moreover, many of these platforms offer features such as:

Statistics: Track your games to see where you shine or need improvement.
Chat Functionality: Communicate with partners and opponents in real-time.
Customization Options: Personalize your experience according to your preference.

A vital tool in enhancing your understanding of strategies is engaging in forums on platforms such as Reddit or the Spades sub-forums. These allow players to discuss strategies and learn from one another. The sense of community offers a platform to ask questions ranging from advanced techniques to the absolute basics. This social interaction can be invaluable.

Tutorials and Guides

Tutorials and guides come in a myriad of forms, catering to different learning preferences. Whether you prefer reading detailed text or watching visually engaging videos, there’s something for everyone. Platforms such as YouTube host numerous channels dedicated to explaining Spades intricacies, showcasing gameplay, and breaking down strategies. These resources can smoothen the onboarding for new players and enhance the skills of seasoned players alike.

You could also find comprehensive guides on educational sites like wikihow.com or ehow.com. These guides typically cover:

Essential Rules: A refresher on the basics, ensuring you know what’s what before diving in.
Common Mistakes: Learning what not to do can save you from unnecessary pitfalls.
Strategy Sessions: In-depth dives into advanced gameplay styles and effective communication with partners.

In addition, blogs written by passionate players provide personal insights that often resonate more than formal tutorials. These reflections on strategy and gameplay experiences can offer a relatable element that formal guides often lack.

Note that while utilizing these tools, practice is still key to refining your skills. The more you play, the more you'll learn, and the better you will become.

As you take advantage of these online platforms and tutorials, you'll likely find yourself in a continuous learning cycle that not only sharpens your own skills but also contributes to your overall enjoyment of Spades.

Epilogue

In wrapping up, understanding Spades transcends just knowing the rules—it's about embracing the game's rich heritage and nuances. This article has dissected not only the fundamental rules governing gameplay but has also shone a light on strategies, variations, and common mistakes. Knowing these particulars enriches your play experience, whether you're at a casual family gathering or in a tense tournament setting.

Final Thoughts on Spades

As you step away from the formalities and lean into the spirit of Spades, remember it’s not just about winning. The heart of the game lies in the camaraderie and the subtle art of bluffing. Each hand is a dance; every bid, a calculated risk. So, hone your strategy, stay aware of your partner's signals, and engage fully with the game dynamics. It’s through practice and shared experiences that you'll find yourself not just a participant, but a true aficionado of Spades.

Encouragement for New Players

For those just dipping their toes into the world of Spades, the most important thing is to have fun. Don't let the complexity drown your enjoyment. Start simple, maybe with friends who will guide you along the way. Learn from each mistake, and take notes on the strategies that resonate with you. There’s no rush; mastery comes with time. And remember, everyone was a beginner at some point, so take heart! You'll be slinging cards and strategizing with the best of them in no time.

"The game isn’t just about the cards you hold; it’s about how you play them."

By embracing the tips and insights offered in this article, you are well on your way to becoming a competent player, ready to tackle any Spades table with confidence. Dive in, have a blast, and let the game’s strategic depths capture your imagination!

Have More Great Articles:

Illustration of Pai Gow Poker table layout