How to Play Craps

The Ultimate Guide to Playing

People Playing and Learning Craps

Craps is a thrilling and fast played dice game that has become increasingly popular in both physical and online casinos.

With its seemingly complex rules and multiple betting options, the game can be quite intimidating for beginners. However, once you learn the basics, craps becomes an incredibly fun and engaging experience.

Introduction Master the Game & Boost Your Odds with Expert Advice

In this straightforward guide, we’ll take you through the basics of craps, break down the different types of bets, and share expert tips to help you master the game. Let’s dive in and discover how to play craps like a champion!

Craps for Beginners

Craps 101

Craps is a thrilling game that involves two regular six-sided dice, where players aim to forecast the results of the dice rolls. The game unfolds in rounds, starting with a come-out roll, followed by a sequence of additional rolls until a designated outcome is reached. Here are the essential elements of craps:

The come-out roll

Marks the beginning of a fresh round in the game. The individual tossing the dice is referred to as the "shooter." The primary aim of this initial roll is to set a point, which happens when the shooter lands on a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10.

The Point

Once the shooter sets a point during the come-out roll, the game transitions to a new stage.

The goal now is for the shooter to roll the established point number again before hitting a 7. If the shooter successfully rolls the point number, all pass line bets are winners, and a fresh round starts with the same shooter.

However, if a 7 is rolled before the point number—known as a "seven-out"—all pass line bets lose, and the dice are passed to the next shooter.

Below is Example of  Online Casino Craps Table:

Craps Table view

Types of Bets in Craps

There are numerous bets available in craps, each with its own odds and payouts. Understanding these bets is crucial to mastering the game. Here are the most common bets you’ll encounter:

Pass Line Bet: This is the most basic bet in craps, placed before the come-out roll. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, the bet wins; if they roll a 2, 3, or 12, the bet loses. If a point is established, the bet wins if the point is rolled again before a 7, and loses if a 7 is rolled first.

How to make the Pass Line bet:

Showing how to make a pass line bet on Craps table
Arrow showing where to put your Pass Line Bet

Familiarize yourself with the Pass Line Bet, a key component of craps. This straightforward bet enables you to participate in a full night of gaming with just one type of wager, and at the same time it has one of the best odds for the player. To make a Pass Line Bet, position your chips on the section of the table labeled “Pass Line.”

A Pass Line Bet is made during the initial roll of the dice, known as the come-out roll. This is indicated by an “off” marker on the table. When you see this marker, you know it’s the right time to place your bet.

When the come-out roll is a 7 or 11, you receive a one-to-one payout. Conversely, you lose if the come-out roll results in a 2, 3, or 12. If the come-out roll yields any other number, that number becomes the “target,” and the shooter keeps rolling until they roll a 7 or the target number again. If the target number reappears before a 7, you win; if a 7 appears first, you lose.

A one-to-one payout means that if you wager one dollar, you win one dollar.

Refrain from placing a Pass Line Bet after the come-out roll, as doing so reduces your likelihood of winning.

Don’t Pass Bet: This bet is the opposite of the pass line bet. If the come-out roll is a 2 or 3, the bet wins; if it’s a 7 or 11, the bet loses. If a point is established, the bet wins if a 7 is rolled before the point, and loses if the point is rolled first.

Come Bet: This bet can be placed after the come-out roll and works similarly to the pass line bet. If the next roll is a 7 or 11, the bet wins; if it’s a 2, 3, or 12, the bet loses. If any other number is rolled, that number becomes the “come point,” and the bet wins if the come point is rolled again before a 7.

How to make the Come Bet:

Arrow showing where to make the Come Bet in Craps

Don’t Come Bet: The opposite of the come bet, this wager wins if the next roll is a 2 or 3, and loses if it’s a 7 or 11. If any other number is rolled, that becomes the “come point,” and the bet wins if a 7 is rolled before the come point, and loses if the come point is rolled first.

Place Bets: These bets are made after a point is established, and involve wagering on a specific number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) being rolled before a 7. The odds and payouts for place bets vary depending on the number chosen.

Field Bets: A field bet is a one-roll wager on the outcome of the next roll. If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12, the bet wins. The payouts differ depending on the number rolled, with 2 and 12 usually paying double or triple the wager.

Proposition Bets: These are one-roll bets placed in the center of the table, with various outcomes such as specific numbers, combinations of numbers, or the appearance of craps (2, 3, or 12). Proposition bets generally have high payouts but also high house edges, making them less favorable for players.

Nick Gough’s Expert Tips for Craps Beginners

  • Get to Know the Table Layout-  Take some time to understand the layout of the craps table. This will help guide you on where to place your bets and where the diffrent types of bets can be places.
    Most tables share a similar design, featuring sections for pass line, don't pass, come, don't come, and various other bets.

  • Start with the Basics - Craps can seem complex at first, but as a newcomer, it's best to keep things straightforward. Concentrate on the fundamental bets and gradually add more complex options as you gain confidence. Begin by mastering the pass line and don't pass bets, as they offer the lowest house edges and form the core of the game. Once you feel at ease with these, you can delve into more intricate betting strategies.

  • Steer Clear of High House Edge Bets - Although proposition bets might seem appealing due to their potential payouts, they typically come with high house edges. Focus on bets that have lower house edges to enhance your chances of winning over time.

  • Budget Your Bankroll -Establish a budget for your craps session and adhere to it. Avoid the temptation to chase losses or make hasty bets, and keep in mind that the primary aim of playing craps is to enjoy yourself.

  • Watch and Learn - Observe other players to pick up on their strategies and betting habits. Seasoned craps players can offer valuable tips and help you refine your gameplay.

  • Practice Online - Numerous online casinos provide free craps games, giving you the chance to practice and get acquainted with the rules and betting options without risking any money. Take advantage of this opportunity to sharpen your skills before wagering real cash.

  • Seek Assistance - Don’t hesitate to ask the dealer or fellow players for help or clarification. Most individuals are more than willing to assist newcomers and share their insights about the game.

  • Play Responsibly -As with any gambling activity, it's essential to play responsibly and stay within your limits. I always set a budget before I start playing and stick to it. I recommend you do the same.

    Have fun

How to win at Craps

Throwing dices on a craps table hoping to win

Winning at craps largely based on luck since it’s fundamentally a game of chance determined by the roll of the dice.

But you can improve your chances by employing clever strategies, making informed bets, and wisely managing your bankroll.

To boost your chances of winning at craps, consider these tips:

Looking at the Pros and Cons of Playing Craps

By weighing the pros and cons of playing craps, you can decide if the game aligns with your preferences and interests. If you do decide to give craps a try, remember to play responsibly, learn the rules and betting options, and manage your bankroll effectively.

Pros

Cons

What are the Odds in Craps?

In craps, the odds and house edge vary depending on the type of bet you make. Below is our list of common craps bets along with their respective odds and house edges:

Bet Type Odds House Edge
Pass Line & Come Bets 251 to 244 (full odds) 1.41%
Don't Pass & Don't Come Bets 976 to 949 (full odds) 1.36%
Taking Odds Bets True odds (No house edge) 0%
4 or 10 2 to 1 0%
5 or 9 3 to 2 0%
6 or 8 6 to 5 0%
Place Bets (4 or 10) 2 to 1 6.67%
Place Bets (5 or 9) 3 to 2 4.00%
Place Bets (6 or 8) 6 to 5 1.52%
Field Bets Varies 5.56%
Any Craps (2, 3, or 12) 8 to 1 11.11%
Any 7 5 to 1 16.67%
2 or 12 35 to 1 13.89%
3 or 11 17 to 1 11.11%
Hard 4 or 10 8 to 1 11.11%
Hard 6 or 8 10 to 1 9.09%

Understanding the odds and house edges of different bets in craps is vital for making well-informed wagering decisions. It’s generally advisable to favor bets with lower house edges, such as the pass line, don’t pass, come, don’t come, and placing bets on 6 or 8, as this strategy can boost your chances of success.

What Makes Craps Stand out Comparing to other Casino Table Games

Craps stands out from other table games for several exciting reasons:

  1. Energetic atmosphere – Craps is all about high energy and excitement. Players gather around the table, cheering and shouting as the dice are rolled. This lively environment creates a thrilling experience that’s hard to find in other games.
  2. Variety of betting options – With so many betting choices, craps appeals to a wide range of players. This variety attracts both beginners and experienced gamblers, allowing everyone to pick bets that match their comfort level and understanding of the game.
  3. Better odds – Some bets in craps, like the Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line, have a low house edge, making them appealing for those looking for better winning chances. Plus, odds bets can be placed with these main bets and have no house edge at all.
  4. Fast-paced gameplay – The quick nature of craps means rounds can finish in just a few minutes. This rapid pace adds an adrenaline rush to the game, keeping players engaged and excited.
  5. Encouragement of social interaction – Unlike many other table games, craps encourages players to interact. Since most people bet alongside the shooter, they often cheer for the same results, creating a sense of community and shared excitement.
  6. Unique gaming style – Craps is one of the few casino games that uses dice instead of cards or wheels, giving it a special charm. This difference makes the game more interesting and fun for many players.
  7. Active player involvement – In craps, players take turns being the shooter, allowing them to directly influence the game’s outcome. This level of participation boosts the thrill and immersion of the experience.

Together, these factors create a special and popular table game in craps, making it different from other casino games like blackjack, roulette, and poker.

Conclusion

Craps is an exciting and fast played casino game that provides opportunities for fun and profit. By understanding the rules, mastering the various types of bets, and following our advice, you can significantly enhance your gaming experience and boost your odds of success.

With your new knowledge of the craps table, you’re all set to roll the dice and jump into the fun of this legendary casino favorite.

Please remember to play responsibly.

Author,  I’m Nick Gough, and I’ve spent over 20 years playing craps and different casino games. I have a lot of experience and knowledge in the world of gambling.

Can I Play on my Mobile Device?

Yes, you can play on your smartphone and tablet.

Yes, you can play free on most online casinos. However, at land-based casinos, this usually is not possible.

Please see our section above about Types of Bets in Craps, there you will also find all you need to know about pass line bet and a illustration.

References:

vc.bridgew.edu –  A Mathematical Analysis of a Game of Craps

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