Craps Game Guide

Discovering the Craps

If you’re looking for an exhilarating change from classic poker or blackjack, craps is an excellent option. At first glance, the rules and terminology may seem intricate, but once you understand the fundamentals, the game becomes both engaging and enjoyable. After a few rounds, you’ll likely want to explore various craps strategies, ranging from safer bets like the “Pass Line” to bolder wagers such as the “snake eyes” bet. Before diving in, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the game. This guide will provide an overview of the table layout, rules, types of bets, and fundamental strategies, so you’ll be ready for your first game of craps in no time!

Getting Started with Craps

Let’s begin with the essential rules. Craps starts with a player rolling the dice in what’s referred to as the “come-out” roll. This initial roll can result in one of three outcomes:

  • Natural (7 or 11): An immediate win.
  • Craps (2, 3, or 12): An immediate loss.
  • Point (any other number): The round continues.

If the shooter rolls a point, that number is marked, and the shooter must roll the dice again, trying to hit the point before rolling a 7. If a 7 is rolled before the point, the shooter loses, and the round concludes. The diverse potential rolls between these outcomes are where different betting options come into play.

Popular Bets in Craps

  • Pass Line: A wager that the shooter will roll a natural or successfully hit the point before rolling a 7.
  • Don’t Pass Line: A wager that the shooter will roll a 7 before reaching the point.
  • Come/Don’t Come: Similar to Pass/Don’t Pass bets, but placed after the point is established.
  • Proposition Bets: High-risk, high-reward wagers that are valid for a single roll, such as betting on “snake eyes” (two 1s).

Understanding the Rules of Craps

While the Pass and Come bets are relatively straightforward and remain active for the entire round, more advanced options like proposition bets carry higher risks but can yield greater rewards. Some noteworthy proposition bets include:

  • Any Seven: Betting that a 7 will be rolled.
  • Snake Eyes (2) or Boxcars (12): Bets on specific roll combinations.
  • Hard Ways: Bets on specific doubles, such as two 2s to make a total of 4.

Additionally, there are other types of bets, including Place Bets (betting on a specific number before a 7 is rolled) and Big 6/Big 8 Bets (betting that a 6 or 8 will be rolled before a 7).

Variations of Craps

Craps is available in several variations, including Crapless Craps, where rolling a 2, 3, or 12 does not result in an immediate loss, and High Point Craps, where rolling an 11 or 12 results in an automatic win. While these variations can be entertaining, the classic version remains the most widely played.

Crafting Your Craps Strategy

For newcomers, it’s advisable to focus on safer bets. The Pass Line and Come Bets are your best choices for minimizing the house edge, which can be as low as 1.40%. More seasoned players may venture into riskier bets, but beginners should steer clear of proposition bets due to their higher house edge. Depending on the game situation, Place bets and Field bets can also be beneficial options.

Helpful Tips for Beginners

  • Observe a few rounds before participating to get a feel for the game.
  • Avoid Proposition Bets unless you have extra chips to spare.
  • Be cautious with Don’t Pass/Don’t Come Bets, as they may create tension at the table.
  • Start with basic strategies and gradually explore more advanced ones as you gain experience.

Glossary of Craps Terminology

  • Shooter: The player who rolls the dice.
  • Come-out Roll: The first roll in a betting round.
  • Pass/Don’t Pass Bets: Wagers placed for or against the shooter.
  • Proposition Bets: High-risk wagers active for a single roll.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is it possible to play Craps online?
    Absolutely! Many online casinos provide a range of craps variations, featuring layouts that closely resemble those in traditional brick-and-mortar establishments.
  • Are there bonuses available for playing Craps?
    While dedicated bonuses for craps might not be common, some casinos offer general deposit bonuses that can be utilized for playing this game.
  • How fair is Craps as a game?
    Craps is a fair game, both in land-based and online casinos. It relies on random dice rolls, ensuring that all players have an equal chance of winning.