How to Play Craps
The Ultimate Guide to Playing
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:
Below is Example of Online Casino Craps Table:
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:
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:
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
How to win at Craps
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:
- Focus on bets such as pass line, don't pass, come, and don't come, which have house edges of around 1.36% to 1.41%. Placing these bets offers you the highest chances of success over time.
- Utilize odds bets: Odds bets are unique in that they have no house edge, making them the most favorable bets for players. They can be placed in conjunction with pass line, don't pass, come, and don't come bets after a point is established. The more you back up your original bet with odds bets, the lower the overall house edge becomes. Implement a betting strategy: Implementing a betting strategy allows you to make smarter choices and effectively oversee your bankroll.
- Some popular craps betting strategies include the Iron Cross, the Martingale, and the Paroli system. Research these strategies, practice them in free craps games, and choose one that aligns with your playing style and risk tolerance
- Set a budget for your craps session and stick to it. Divide your bankroll into smaller units to help you manage your bets and avoid making impulsive decisions. Knowing when to walk away and accepting losses as part of the game are essential for a responsible and enjoyable gambling experience
- Stay disciplined and focused - Maintain a clear head and stay disciplined while playing craps. Think before you bet, stay in control, and don’t chase your losses or let the excitement take over.
- The key to mastering craps is consistent practice. The more you play, the better you understand the game. You'll spot patterns, learn its tricks, and make smarter bets.
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
- Social Experience - Craps is a vibrant game that thrives on social interaction, with players rallying together and celebrating victories as a group. This sense of community enhances the enjoyment, whether you're at a physical casino or engaging in live dealer craps online.
- Favorable Odds - Certain bets in craps, like the pass line and don't pass bets, come with a low house edge. By focusing on these options, players can boost their winning potential and enjoy a more advantageous gaming experience over time.
- Diverse Betting Choices -The range of betting options in craps allows players to customize their experience according to their preferences and risk appetite. From straightforward, low-risk bets to more daring, high-reward wagers, craps accommodates a variety of playing styles.
- Thrilling Atmosphere - The quick tempo of craps, paired with the suspense of each roll, creates an exhilarating environment that many players find captivating and enjoyable.
- Chance for Big Wins - Craps presents opportunities for significant payouts, especially with certain proposition and multi-roll bets. Although these bets may carry higher house edges, they can result in impressive winnings if luck is on your side.
Cons
- Intimidating Complexity - For newcomers, the rules and numerous betting options in craps can be overwhelming. The complexity of the game may deter some players, but mastering the basics and starting with simpler bets can help ease the transition.
- High House Edge on Certain Bets - While there are low house edge bets in craps, some options come with a steep house edge that can negatively impact a player's bankroll. It's essential for players to be mindful and avoid high-risk bets with unfavorable odds.
- The Craps game moves fast, which makes it exciting but also for some challenging- While it injects excitement into the game, it may also lead players to make hasty decisions and place bets without fully grasping the odds and potential payouts.
- Some casinos may require that you queue before you can start playing
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Is it possible to play for free before playing for real money?
Yes, you can play free on most online casinos. However, at land-based casinos, this usually is not possible.
What is the pass line in craps?
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
