Craps is a thrilling and fast-paced dice game that has been a staple in casinos around the world for decades. This game, known for its lively atmosphere and dynamic gameplay, can seem overwhelming to newcomers due to its wide array of betting options and unique lingo. However, with a basic understanding of the rules and betting strategies, anyone can join in on the excitement of the craps table. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the essentials of how to play craps, from the layout of the table to the most common types of bets, providing you with the knowledge you need to approach your next craps game with confidence.
Understanding the Craps Table
The craps table is a large, felt-covered table with high sides, designed to contain the dice thrown by the players. One of the first things you’ll notice is the intricate layout marked on the table, featuring various sections for different types of bets. The table is mirrored on both sides, allowing players to participate from all around. Key areas include the Pass Line, Don’t Pass Bar, Come, Don’t Come, Field, and various proposition bets in the center.
The Role of the Shooter and the Come-Out Roll
Each round of craps begins with what’s known as the “come-out roll,” initiated by a player referred to as the “shooter.” The shooter is the person who rolls the dice, and the role rotates around the table in a clockwise direction after each round. To start, the shooter must place a wager on the Pass Line or Don’t Pass Bar. Other players at the table can also make bets based on their prediction of the outcome of the shooter’s roll.
Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line Bets
The most fundamental bets in craps are the Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line bets. A Pass Line bet is a wager that the shooter will roll a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, or that they will establish a point and then roll that point number again before rolling a 7. Conversely, a Don’t Pass Line bet is essentially a wager against the shooter, betting that they will roll a 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll, or that they will establish a point but roll a 7 before re-rolling the point number.
Understanding Points and the Point Phase
If the come-out roll results in a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes the “point.” The dealer will mark the point number on the table, and the shooter will continue to roll the dice. The objective for the shooter now is to roll the point number again before rolling a 7. If the point number is rolled, Pass Line bets win, and Don’t Pass Line bets lose. If a 7 is rolled first, the opposite occurs.
Advanced Betting: Odds, Come Bets, and Place Bets
Once the point is established, players have the option to make additional bets. One popular option is taking or laying “odds” on a Pass Line or Don’t Pass Line bet. This is an additional bet that the point number or a 7 will be rolled next, offering true odds and resulting in no house edge.
Come and Don’t Come bets are similar to Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line bets but can be made on any roll other than the come-out roll. These bets establish a new “come point,” independent of the main point, and follow the same rules as the initial Pass and Don’t Pass bets.
Place bets allow players to wager on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) being rolled before a 7. These bets can be made at any time and offer different payouts depending on the number chosen.
Craps Strategy and Etiquette
While craps is largely a game of chance, understanding the odds and probabilities can help you make more informed betting decisions. Bets with the lowest house edge, such as Pass Line, Don’t Pass Line, and Come Bets with odds, are generally considered the best bets. Avoiding high-risk proposition bets, which have a significant house advantage, can also help preserve your bankroll.
Craps also comes with its own set of etiquette rules. For example, it’s considered good practice to place your bets when the dice are in the center of the table and to avoid late bets that disrupt the flow of the game. Handling the dice with both hands or taking too long to roll can also be frowned upon.
Conclusion
Craps can be an intimidating game at first glance, but it’s also one of the most dynamic and exciting games in the casino. By understanding the basic rules, familiarizing yourself with the different types of bets, and observing proper etiquette, you’ll be able to approach the craps table with confidence. Remember, while there’s no surefire strategy to win at craps, knowing how to play smartly can greatly enhance your gaming experience. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, the craps table offers a unique blend of camaraderie and thrill that’s hard to find elsewhere in the casino.
FAQs on How to Play Craps
Can craps be played online?
Yes, craps can be played online at many online casinos. Online craps games replicate the excitement of the casino experience and follow the same rules. Some online platforms also offer live dealer craps, providing an even more immersive experience.
Is there a strategy to win at craps?
While craps is largely a game of luck, players can improve their chances by choosing bets with the lowest house edge and by managing their bankrolls wisely. Sticking to Pass/Don’t Pass and Come/Don’t Come bets, and taking or laying odds, is a strategy that many experienced players follow.
What does “shooting the dice” mean in craps?
“Shooting the dice” refers to the act of the player (the shooter) rolling the dice. The shooter is the person who rolls the dice across the craps table, aiming to hit the far side of the table to ensure randomness in the roll.