Game Guide 5 min read

Dragon Tiger: Rules, Odds & Winning Strategies

Master Dragon Tiger, the fastest casino card game. Learn the rules, understand true odds, and discover betting strategies for this simple two-card game.

By MPlay Team • January 7, 2026

Dragon Tiger is the fastest card game in any casino—one card to Dragon, one card to Tiger, highest card wins. It's baccarat simplified to its purest form. Here's your complete guide.

MPlay Dragon Tiger game showing Dragon and Tiger betting positions — Dragon Tiger - the simplest card comparison game in the casino

How Dragon Tiger Works

The rules couldn't be simpler:

One card is dealt to Dragon
One card is dealt to Tiger
The higher card wins (Ace is low, King is high)
If both cards match in rank, it's a Tie

ℹ️ Card Rankings

Ace (lowest) → 2 → 3 → 4 → 5 → 6 → 7 → 8 → 9 → 10 → J → Q → K (highest)

Betting Options & Payouts

Bet	Wins When	Payout	House Edge
Dragon	Dragon card is higher	1:1	3.73%
Tiger	Tiger card is higher	1:1	3.73%
Tie	Both cards same rank	8:1	32.77%
Suited Tie	Same rank + same suit	50:1	13.98%

⚠️ Avoid the Tie Bet

The Tie bet has a massive 32.77% house edge. It's one of the worst bets in any casino game.

Mathematical Odds

Understanding the true probabilities:

Outcome	Probability
Dragon wins	46.26%
Tiger wins	46.26%
Tie	7.47%

In case of a tie, Dragon/Tiger bets lose half their stake—this is where the house edge comes from.

Strategy Tips

1. Stick to Dragon or Tiger Bets

The main bets have only 3.73% house edge. Never bet on Tie or Suited Tie—the payouts don't compensate for the low probability.

2. Card Counting (Limited Value)

Unlike blackjack, card counting offers minimal advantage in Dragon Tiger. With 8 decks and simple mechanics, the edge gained is negligible.

3. Flat Betting

Since each round is independent, use flat betting (same bet size every round). Progressive systems don't improve your odds.

4. Quick Sessions

Dragon Tiger moves fast. Set a time limit or number of rounds before you start to maintain discipline.

💡 Bankroll Management

With ~50/50 odds, expect variance. Bring at least 50x your bet size for a comfortable session.

Dragon vs Tiger: Does It Matter?

No! Both sides have identical odds. There's no hidden advantage to picking one over the other. Choose based on gut feeling, superstition, or just alternate—it makes no mathematical difference.