Craps is one of the most thrilling and fast-paced casino games. If you’ve ever walked through an Australian casino, you’ve likely heard the excited shouts from the craps table. This game, steeped in history and strategy, is a favorite among both novice and seasoned gamblers. Understanding how to play craps and, more importantly, how to win can transform your casino experience. Let’s dive into the world of craps and uncover the secrets to mastering this exhilarating game.
Basics of Craps
Craps is a dice game where players make wagers on the outcomes of the roll of two dice. It’s a game of chance but also involves strategic betting. The main goal is to predict the outcome of the dice rolls accurately.
Craps, often seen as the most exciting game in a casino, involves players betting on the result of the dice rolls. Each round starts with the “come-out roll,” and depending on the outcome, players can either win immediately, lose immediately, or establish a “point” which then influences subsequent rolls. This combination of luck and strategy is what makes craps so engaging. Players can make various types of bets, each with different odds and payouts, allowing for a range of strategic play styles.
In the world of craps, understanding the different bet types and their odds is crucial for success. Players can choose from simple bets with low house edges, like the Pass Line bet, or more complex bets with higher payouts but increased risk, such as proposition bets. Knowing when and how to place these bets can significantly impact a player’s overall experience and potential winnings. By mastering the basics, players can approach the craps table with confidence and a clear strategy.
History of craps
Craps has a rich history dating back to the Crusades. The modern version we know today evolved from a game called Hazard. It gained immense popularity in the United States during World War II and eventually spread worldwide, including Australian casinos.
The origins of craps can be traced back to a medieval game called Hazard, which was played in Europe during the Crusades. Sir William of Tyre is often credited with creating Hazard, which then evolved over the centuries. When the game was brought to New Orleans by French settlers in the early 1800s, it underwent significant changes and eventually became known as craps. Its simple rules and fast pace made it a favorite among soldiers during World War II, who played it in barracks and on the battlefield, spreading its popularity.
After World War II, craps became a staple in American casinos, thanks to its lively nature and the camaraderie it fosters among players. Its appeal quickly crossed borders, reaching casinos in Australia and other parts of the world. Today, craps is a beloved game in many casinos, known for its dynamic gameplay and the enthusiastic crowd it attracts. Understanding the historical context of craps adds an extra layer of appreciation for the game and its enduring popularity.
Basic rules of the game
In craps, players bet on the outcome of a roll or a series of rolls. The game starts with the “come-out roll,” and depending on the result, players can either win, lose, or set a point. Subsequent rolls determine the outcome of the bets placed.
The game begins with the come-out roll, where the shooter (the person rolling the dice) aims to establish a point number. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, Pass Line bets win, while a roll of 2, 3, or 12 means those bets lose. If any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) is rolled, that number becomes the point. The goal then is for the shooter to roll the point number again before rolling a 7 to win.
Players can place a variety of bets throughout the game, each with different odds and payouts. Some bets, like the Pass Line and Don’t Pass bets, are simple and offer lower house edges, while others, like proposition bets, are more complex and riskier. Knowing when to place these bets and understanding the odds associated with each one is key to becoming proficient at craps. By mastering the basic rules and strategies, players can enjoy a more rewarding and enjoyable experience at the craps table.
The Craps Table Layout
The craps table can seem intimidating at first glance, but understanding its layout is crucial. The table is divided into several sections where different types of bets are placed.
- Pass Line: This is the most common bet and is placed at the front of the table.
- Don’t Pass Line: Opposite to the Pass Line, this bet is placed at the back of the table.
- Come: These bets are placed in the Come area, similar to the Pass Line but made after the come-out roll.
- Don’t Come: Similar to Don’t Pass, these bets are placed in the Don’t Come area after the come-out roll.
- Field: This section covers one-roll bets on specific numbers.
- Proposition Bets: Located in the center of the table, these are high-risk bets on specific outcomes.
Understanding these sections helps players know where to place their bets and follow the game more effectively.
Explanation of different sections
Key sections include the Pass Line, Don’t Pass Line, Come, Don’t Come, Field, and various proposition bets. Each section represents different betting options available to players.
- Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line:
- Pass Line: Players win on a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, lose on 2, 3, or 12.
- Don’t Pass Line: Wins on 2 or 3, loses on 7 or 11, and 12 results in a tie.
- Come and Don’t Come:
- Come: Functions like a Pass Line bet but can be placed after the come-out roll.
- Don’t Come: Functions like a Don’t Pass bet placed after the come-out roll.
- Field: One-roll bet that wins if a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12 is rolled.
- Proposition Bets: High-risk bets on specific dice combinations like a hard 8 (both dice showing 4).
Familiarity with these sections and their respective bets allows players to make more informed decisions and enhances their overall gaming strategy.
Key terminologies
Familiarize yourself with terms like “shooter” (the player rolling the dice), “come-out roll,” “point number,” and “craps” (rolling a 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll).
- Shooter: The player currently rolling the dice.
- Come-out Roll: The initial roll to establish a point.
- Point Number: A number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) that the shooter aims to roll again before a 7.
- Craps: Rolling a 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll, resulting in a loss for Pass Line bets.
Understanding these key terms helps players follow the game more easily and engage more confidently at the craps table.
How to Play Craps
The role of the shooter
The shooter in craps is the player responsible for rolling the dice. This role rotates around the table clockwise after each round. When it’s a player’s turn to be the shooter, they must place a bet on either the Pass Line or the Don’t Pass Line before rolling the dice. The shooter’s first roll in the game is known as the “come-out roll.” This roll determines the direction of the game and the possible outcomes for the initial bets placed.
The shooter’s performance can significantly impact the game’s flow and the mood at the table. If the shooter rolls well and keeps hitting the point numbers, the excitement builds, and the table can become quite lively. Conversely, if the shooter frequently rolls sevens after establishing a point, it can lead to quicker losses for players betting on the Pass Line. Understanding the shooter’s role and the associated bets helps players make informed decisions and enhance their overall experience.
The come-out roll
The come-out roll is the initial roll made by the shooter in a new round of craps. This roll is crucial as it sets the stage for the round. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, Pass Line bets win instantly, and the round ends. This outcome is known as a “natural.” However, if the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, these are considered “craps,” and Pass Line bets lose, ending the round immediately.
If any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) is rolled on the come-out roll, that number becomes the “point.” The objective for the shooter then shifts to rolling the point number again before rolling a 7. This series of rolls continues until either the point number or a 7 is rolled. Understanding the dynamics of the come-out roll is essential as it determines the subsequent betting opportunities and the progression of the game.
Point numbers and what they mean
When the shooter establishes a point by rolling a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, the game enters the next phase. The point number is crucial because it dictates the shooter’s objective. The goal for the shooter is to roll the point number again before rolling a 7. If the shooter successfully rolls the point number, Pass Line bets win, and a new round begins with another come-out roll.
Rolling a 7 after a point has been established but before rolling the point number results in a loss for Pass Line bets. This outcome is known as “sevening out,” and it ends the current round, rotating the role of the shooter to the next player. Understanding the significance of point numbers helps players strategize their bets and anticipate potential outcomes based on the rolls.
| Roll Outcome | Bet Type | Result |
| 7 or 11 | Pass Line | Win |
| 2, 3, or 12 | Pass Line | Lose |
| 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 | Point | Establishes point number |
| Point number before 7 | Pass Line | Win (after point) |
| 7 before point number | Pass Line | Lose (seven out) |
Types of Bets in Craps
Pass Line and Don’t Pass Bets
Pass Line bets are the most basic and popular bets in craps. Players win if the come-out roll is a 7 or 11 and lose if it’s a 2, 3, or 12. If a point is established, the player wins if the point number is rolled again before a 7. Don’t Pass bets are essentially the opposite. Players win on a come-out roll of 2 or 3, lose on 7 or 11, and push (tie) on 12. If a point is established, Don’t Pass bets win if a 7 is rolled before the point number.
Understanding these basic bets is essential for beginners because they have the lowest house edge and are straightforward to play. The Pass Line bet has a house edge of 1.41%, while the Don’t Pass bet has a slightly lower edge of 1.36%. By focusing on these bets, players can enjoy a more favorable chance of winning compared to other, more complex bets on the table.
Come and Don’t Come Bets
Come bets are similar to Pass Line bets but can be placed at any time after the come-out roll. When a player places a Come bet, the next roll acts as a come-out roll for that bet. If a 7 or 11 is rolled, the Come bet wins; if a 2, 3, or 12 is rolled, it loses. Any other number establishes a point for the Come bet, and the player wins if that number is rolled again before a 7.
Don’t Come bets work oppositely to Come bets, similar to the relationship between Pass Line and Don’t Pass bets. Players win if the next roll is a 2 or 3, lose on 7 or 11, and push on 12. If a point is established, the player wins if a 7 is rolled before the point number. These bets offer additional betting opportunities and can be used strategically to diversify a player’s approach.
Place Bets
Place bets allow players to bet on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) hitting before a 7 is rolled. Players can place these bets at any time, and the payouts vary depending on the number chosen. For example, a place bet on 6 or 8 typically pays 7:6, while a bet on 4 or 10 pays 9:5.
Place bets offer more flexibility and higher payouts compared to Pass Line and Come bets, but they also come with a higher house edge. Understanding the odds and payouts associated with place bets helps players make informed decisions and manage their risk effectively.
Field Bets
Field bets are one-roll bets that win if a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12 is rolled. These bets offer various payouts based on the outcome, with 2 and 12 typically paying double or triple the bet amount. Field bets are attractive because of their high payouts, but they also have a higher house edge compared to some other bets.
Despite the higher risk, field bets can add excitement to the game and provide opportunities for quick wins. Players should use these bets sparingly and as part of a broader betting strategy to manage their bankroll effectively.
Proposition Bets
Proposition bets are high-risk, high-reward bets on specific outcomes of the dice roll. Examples include betting on a specific total (e.g., hard 8, where both dice show 4) or combinations like any craps (2, 3, or 12). These bets typically offer high payouts but come with a significant house edge.
Proposition bets should be approached with caution and used primarily for their entertainment value rather than as a core part of a betting strategy. Understanding the odds and potential payouts helps players decide when and how to place these bets for maximum enjoyment and excitement.