In “Learn Craps: A Beginner’s Step-by-Step Guide To Playing Craps,” you will discover a comprehensive introduction to the popular casino game of Craps. Designed specifically for those new to the game, this guide provides a clear and concise overview of the rules, strategies, and terminology involved in playing Craps. Whether you’re stepping foot into a casino for the first time or simply looking to expand your gambling repertoire, this article will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the Craps table with ease.
Overview of Craps
Craps is a popular casino dice game that is played with two dice. It is often regarded as one of the most exciting and fast-paced games in the casino. The outcome of each roll of the dice determines the bets that win or lose. In this article, we will delve into the definition of craps, explore its history, and discuss the basic rules of the game.
Definition of craps
Craps is a dice game where players make bets on the outcome of the roll, or a series of rolls, of a pair of dice. It is played on a specialized table with various betting options. The game is typically played in a casino, with players taking turns being the “shooter” who rolls the dice. Craps offers numerous betting opportunities, making it thrilling and unpredictable.
History of craps
Craps has its roots in a game called Hazard, which dates back to the 12th century. The game underwent various transformations over the centuries and eventually made its way to New Orleans in the early 19th century. It was in New Orleans that the modern version of craps evolved, incorporating elements of both Hazard and English dice games. Today, craps is enjoyed by millions of players worldwide and is a staple in land-based and online casinos.
Basic rules of craps
To play craps, you start by placing your bets on the outcome of the roll. The game begins with the “come-out” roll, where the shooter aims to establish a point by rolling a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, it’s a “natural” win for the pass line bets. However, rolling a 2, 3, or 12 results in a loss known as “craps”. Once a point is established, the shooter continues to roll the dice until they either hit the point again or roll a 7. The game continues with new shooters taking turns.
Understanding the Table Layout
Layout of a standard craps table
A standard craps table is divided into various sections. The central area is known as the “layout” and is where most of the bets are placed. At the ends of the table, there are two identical mirrored sections called “end sections,” which are typically used during crowded games.
Different areas of the table
The layout of the craps table consists of different areas that serve specific purposes. The “pass line” area is where players place bets on the shooter’s success. The “don’t pass bar” area is for betting against the shooter. The “come” and “don’t come” areas are for placing bets on subsequent rolls. The “field” area is where players bet on the next roll resulting in a specific number. The “place bet” area allows players to bet on specific numbers being rolled before a 7. The “hardways” area is for bets on specific doubles, and the “proposition” area is for various one-roll bets.
Betting options on the table
The craps table offers a wide range of betting options for players. Some of the most common bets include the pass line bet, don’t pass bet, come bet, don’t come bet, field bet, place bet, hardways bet, proposition bet, big 6 and big 8 bets, and any 7 bet. Each bet has different odds and potential payouts, providing players with a multitude of strategies and possibilities to explore.
Types of Bets
Pass Line bet
The pass line bet is one of the most common and straightforward bets in craps. It is placed before the come-out roll and wins if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, resulting in a “natural.” If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, known as “craps,” the pass line bet loses. Should the shooter establish a point (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10), the pass line bet wins if the point is rolled before a 7.
Don’t Pass bet
The don’t pass bet is the opposite of the pass line bet. It is also placed before the come-out roll and wins if the shooter rolls a 2 or 3. If a 7 or 11 is rolled, the don’t pass bet loses. Rolling a 12 results in a push. If the shooter establishes a point, the don’t pass bet wins if a 7 is rolled before the point.
Come bet
The come bet is similar to the pass line bet, but it can be placed anytime after the come-out roll. It wins if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, and loses on a 2, 3, or 12. When a point is established, the come bet wins if the point is rolled before a 7.
Don’t Come bet
The don’t come bet is the opposite of the come bet. It can be placed anytime after the come-out roll and wins if a 2 or 3 is rolled, losing on a 7 or 11. If a 12 is rolled, it results in a push. After a point is established, the don’t come bet wins if a 7 is rolled before the point.
Field bet
The field bet is a one-roll bet that can be placed on any roll. It wins if the shooter rolls a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12 and loses on a 5, 6, 7, or 8. The payouts for the field bet can vary, with some casinos offering double or triple rewards for certain numbers.
Place bet
The place bet is a bet on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) being rolled before a 7. It can be made at any time during a round and provides varying odds and payouts depending on the number chosen. The player wins if their chosen number is rolled before a 7, and loses if a 7 comes first.
Hardways bet
The hardways bet is a bet on the shooter rolling a specific double (4, 6, 8, or 10) before a 7 or before that number is rolled in any other combination. It is a one-roll bet and pays out generously if it hits, but loses if a 7 is rolled or if the chosen number is rolled in a different combination.
Proposition bet
The proposition bet is a one-roll bet on specific outcomes, such as rolling a 2, 3, 7, 11, or 12. It offers high payouts but is considered a riskier bet due to its lower odds of winning.
Big 6 and Big 8 bets
The big 6 and big 8 bets are separate, one-roll bets on whether a 6 or 8 will be rolled before a 7. They are placed in designated areas and offer even money payouts.
Any 7 bet
The any 7 bet is a one-roll bet on the next roll resulting in a 7. It pays out at higher odds but has lower chances of winning.
Odds bet
The odds bet is an additional bet that can be placed after establishing a point. It is placed behind the pass line, don’t pass line, come, or don’t come bets, and offers true odds with no house edge. The odds bet can significantly increase the potential winnings for a player who has already placed one of the aforementioned bets.
Rolling the Dice
Role of the shooter
In craps, the role of the shooter refers to the player who is rolling the dice. The shooter is typically chosen in a clockwise fashion around the table. While not mandatory, being the shooter is seen as a privilege and is often desired by many players.
Shooter’s objective
The shooter’s main objective is to roll the dice in such a way that the outcome benefits the players who have placed bets on the table. The shooter aims to roll a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll to win on the pass line, or establish a point to continue rolling until either hitting the point or rolling a 7.
Proper dice handling
Proper dice handling is crucial in craps. The shooter must ensure that the dice are thrown within the designated boundaries of the table and hit the back wall at the opposite end. This ensures randomness and fairness in the game.
Etiquette and rules for rolling the dice
When rolling the dice, it is important for the shooter to follow certain etiquette and rules. The shooter must handle the dice with one hand only, shake them before tossing, and avoid sliding or bouncing them off the table. Additionally, the shooter should never blow on the dice for good luck, as it is considered bad etiquette.
Understanding the Gameplay
Initiating a new round
A new round of craps begins when a new shooter is selected or when the previous shooter fails to make a point. Before the come-out roll, players place their bets on the table according to their preferred betting options. The come-out roll determines the initial point and sets the stage for the rest of the round.
Phases of a craps round
A craps round typically consists of two main phases: the come-out roll and the point phase. During the come-out roll, the shooter aims to establish a point by rolling a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, it is a “natural” win, and if they roll a 2, 3, or 12, it is a loss known as “craps.” Once a point is established, the game enters the point phase.
Point phase and come-out roll
In the point phase, the shooter continues to roll the dice until either hitting the point again (winning for pass line bets) or rolling a 7 (resulting in a loss for pass line bets). The shooter rolls the dice repeatedly, with each roll potentially resulting in a win, loss, or continuation of the round. The point phase continues until the shooter either makes their point or rolls a 7.
Settling bets
After a round is concluded, the dealer will settle the bets. Winnings are distributed to the players who made the correct bets, and losing bets are collected. The next round begins with a new shooter, and players can continue to place bets before the come-out roll.
Common Craps Terminology
Shooter
The shooter refers to the player who is currently rolling the dice. The role of the shooter rotates clockwise around the table.
Come-out roll
The come-out roll is the initial roll made by the shooter to establish a point and start a new round. The outcome of the come-out roll determines the subsequent course of the game.
Point
The point refers to the number established by the shooter on the come-out roll (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10). In the point phase, the shooter aims to roll the point again before rolling a 7 to win the round.
Seven out
A seven out occurs when the shooter rolls a 7 before making their point in the point phase. This results in the end of the round and a loss for pass line bets.
Craps
Craps refers to rolling a 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll. Rolling craps results in a loss for most bets, except for specific one-roll bets.
Natural
A natural refers to rolling a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll. Rolling a natural results in a win for pass line bets.
Boxcars
Boxcars is a slang term used to describe rolling a pair of sixes (6-6) with the dice.
Craps lingo
Craps has its unique language and slang terms. For example, the term “yo” means a roll of 11, while “snake eyes” refers to rolling a pair of ones (1-1). Learning the craps lingo adds to the overall experience and camaraderie at the table.
Strategies and Tips
Bankroll management
Practicing effective bankroll management is essential in craps. It involves setting a budget for your gambling activities and sticking to it. By managing your bankroll wisely, you can minimize losses and maximize your enjoyment of the game.
Choosing the right bets
Understanding the different types of bets in craps is crucial when developing a strategy. Some bets, such as the pass line bet and odds bet, offer favorable odds and lower house edges. By focusing on these bets, players can increase their chances of winning in the long run.
Understanding odds
Craps is a game where understanding odds is key. Taking advantage of the odds bet, which has no house edge, can significantly improve your chances of winning. Familiarize yourself with the odds of each bet and make informed decisions based on the potential payouts and house edges.
Avoiding sucker bets
Sucker bets, also known as high-risk bets, have high house edges and offer low chances of winning. It is advisable to avoid these types of bets to maximize your chances of coming out ahead in the game.
Using a betting system
Many players employ various betting systems in craps, such as the Martingale system or the Iron Cross system, to help manage their bets and potentially increase their winnings. It is important to remember that no betting system guarantees consistent profits, and they should be used with caution.
Taking advantage of free odds bets
One of the best strategies in craps is taking advantage of the free odds bet. This additional bet, which has no house edge, can be placed after establishing a point and can significantly increase your potential winnings. Utilizing the free odds bet can give you an edge in the game.
Etiquette and Casino Tips
Proper casino etiquette
When playing craps, it is important to practice proper casino etiquette. This includes being courteous to the dealer and other players, refraining from distracting behavior, not touching the dice unless you are the shooter, and not placing your belongings on the table.
Dealing with chips and payouts
When playing craps, it is essential to be familiar with the different chips and their values. It is courteous to exchange larger denomination chips for smaller ones if you are cashing out. Additionally, ensure that you are aware of the correct payouts for each bet to avoid any misunderstandings.
Tipping the dealers
Tipping the dealers is a common practice in casinos, including during a game of craps. While not mandatory, it is customary to tip the dealers when you win a bet. Tipping the dealers shows appreciation for their service and can enhance the overall gaming experience.
Setting and maintaining personal limits
It is crucial to set personal limits before playing craps and to stick to them. This includes setting a budget for your gambling activities and knowing when to stop. By setting and maintaining personal limits, you can ensure responsible gambling and avoid excessive losses.
Online Craps
Advantages and disadvantages of playing online
Playing craps online offers several advantages, such as convenience, the ability to play at your own pace, and access to a wide range of online casinos. However, online craps lacks the social interaction and live experience of playing in a physical casino.
Choosing a reputable online casino
When playing craps online, it is important to choose a reputable online casino. Look for licensed and regulated casinos that offer secure and fair gameplay. Read reviews and do thorough research to ensure you select a trustworthy online casino.
How to play craps online
Playing craps online is similar to playing in a physical casino. You place your bets using virtual chips and follow the same rules and gameplay. The main difference is that you are interacting with the game and other players through a virtual platform.
Tips for online craps
When playing craps online, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the rules and different bets before diving into the game. Take advantage of any tutorials or practice modes offered by the online casino. Additionally, manage your bankroll wisely and choose bets with favorable odds to maximize your chances of winning.
Practice and Enjoyment
Finding opportunities to practice
Practicing craps can greatly improve your understanding of the game and increase your confidence at the table. Look for opportunities to practice, such as free online craps games or low-stakes games at a physical casino. By practicing, you can refine your skills and develop effective strategies.
Joining a craps club
Joining a craps club or group can provide a supportive and educational environment for players. Craps clubs often offer regular meetups, discussions, and even organized trips to casinos. Being a part of a craps club allows you to learn from experienced players and forge connections within the craps community.
Enjoying the social aspect of the game
Craps is known for its lively and social atmosphere. Engage with fellow players, cheer for each other’s wins, and enjoy the camaraderie at the table. The social aspect of craps adds to the overall enjoyment of the game and can make it a memorable experience.
Learning from experienced players
Observing and learning from experienced players can be invaluable in developing your understanding and skills in craps. Take the opportunity to watch and ask questions of more seasoned players. Their insights and strategies can provide valuable lessons that enhance your overall gameplay.