Craps: Basic Rules and How to Play
Are you ready to roll the dice and try your luck at the exciting game of craps?
This article explores the basics of craps, from how to play to the different types of bets you can make. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the ropes or a seasoned player wanting to brush up on your skills, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive in and discover the ins and outs of this popular casino game!
Key Takeaways:
What Is Craps?
Craps is a popular dice game played at casinos involving two dice and multiple players.
During a game of Craps, players take turns rolling the dice while others place bets on the outcome. The core gameplay revolves around predicting the numbers that will appear when the dice are rolled.
The first roll of the dice in a betting round is called the ‘come-out roll,’ and depending on the total of the dice, various scenarios unfold. Players can bet on specific numbers, combinations, or even whether the total will be odd or even. The energetic and fast-paced nature of Craps often draws crowds in the vibrant casino environment.
How To Play Craps?
To play Craps, players place bets on the outcome of dice rolls, with a designated shooter throwing the dice on the casino table.
Place Your Bets
In Craps, players begin by placing their bets on the table before the shooter rolls the dice to establish a point.
Craps offers a variety of betting options, including the Pass Line, Come, Don’t Pass, and Don’t Come bets. Each bet has its own set of odds and rules, adding an element of strategy to the game. The shooter, the player rolling the dice, holds a critical role in determining the outcome. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, Pass Line bets win. If they roll a 2, 3, or 12, Pass Line bets lose. Rolling any other number establishes the point, and the game shifts focus to that number, where players can make additional bets.
Roll The Dice
The shooter in Craps rolls the dice to determine the outcome of the game, with specific rules guiding the results based on the dice values.
As the focal point of the game, the shooter plays a crucial role by initiating each round. When the dice are rolled, the combined value determines various possibilities. For instance, rolling a 7 or an 11 right away could signify an instant win, known as a ‘natural,’ while a 2, 3, or 12 might result in a loss, often referred to as ‘crapping out.’ Depending on the total, other numbers like 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 may establish a ‘point,’ prompting further rolls to reach that number before landing on a 7 to win. These rules shape the excitement and anticipation in the game, keeping players engaged throughout.
Understand The Different Bets
Craps offers various betting options such as the Pass Line, Field Bet, and bets on specific numbers, each with its own odds and payouts.
One of the most common bets in Craps is the Pass Line, where players wager that the shooter will roll a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll. If this happens, they win.
The Field Bet is another popular option, where players bet on the next roll resulting in a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12. Bets on specific numbers, like the Hardways, require the shooter to roll a certain pair of numbers before rolling a 7, offering higher payouts but also increased risk.
What Are The Basic Rules Of Craps?
Understanding the basic rules of Craps involves key concepts like the Come Out Roll, establishing the point number, and calculating odds for different bets.
During a game of Craps, the Come Out Roll serves as the initial roll of the dice. If the total adds up to 2, 3, or 12, known as ‘crapping out’, the round ends. Rolling a 7 or 11 results in an instant win. When any other number appears, this sets the point number which players must roll again before a 7 to win. Understanding the point number is crucial for placing subsequent bets based on established odds, whether it’s for Pass Line, Don’t Pass Line, or other wagering options.
The Come Out Roll
The Come Out Roll marks the beginning of a new phase in Craps, where the shooter aims to establish a point number for subsequent rounds.
This pivotal roll not only initiates the game but also determines the shooter’s objectives going forward. The outcome of the Come Out Roll dictates whether the shooter needs to aim for specific numbers related to the established point or focus on avoiding seven to maintain their control over the dice.
This phase is crucial as it sets the stage for the subsequent rounds, influencing the pace and dynamics of the gameplay. Understanding the significance of the Come Out Roll is essential for players to strategize effectively and adapt to the changing conditions of the game.
The Point Number
The Point Number in Craps is the target value set by the shooter after a successful Come Out Roll, influencing subsequent betting and dice outcomes.
Once established, the Point Number becomes pivotal as the shooter aims to roll the same value before rolling a 7, which would end their turn. Players can place additional bets focusing on whether the shooter will successfully hit the point or not, offering various betting options such as the Pass Line or Don’t Pass Line with corresponding odds.
The Point Number essentially shifts the dynamics of the game, prompting strategic decisions from both the shooter and other participants at the table.
The Pass Line Bet
The Pass Line Bet in Craps is a popular wager placed before the Come Out Roll, offering favorable odds for players betting on the shooter’s success.
In a game of Craps, strategic placement of the Pass Line Bet is crucial as it serves as a foundation for subsequent bets. This bet is typically made by placing chips on the designated Pass Line area of the Craps table, signaling the player’s confidence in the shooter’s ability to succeed on the roll.
Understanding the odds associated with the Pass Line Bet is essential. Players who place this bet are rooting for a 7 or 11 to be rolled on the Come Out Roll, as this results in an immediate win. Rolling a 2, 3, or 12 results in an immediate loss for Pass Line bettors, known as ‘crapping out.’
The Pass Line Bet creates an engaging dynamic as it sets the stage for point numbers if a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 is rolled on the Come Out Roll. This initiates a series of rolls where the shooter aims to match the point number before rolling a 7, providing a continuous thrill for players and offering multiple opportunities to win.
The Don’t Pass Bet
The Don’t Pass Bet in Craps is a wager against the shooter, backing the failure to establish the point number and offering different odds compared to the Pass Line Bet.
While the Pass Line Bet relies on the shooter hitting the point before rolling a 7, the Don’t Pass Bet anticipates the opposite outcome a 7 appearing before the point. This bet essentially goes against the crowd, bringing a contrasting dynamic to the Craps table. The odds associated with the Don’t Pass Bet are favorable for the player, with a lower house edge, making it a strategic choice for those seeking a different approach to the game.
What Are The Different Types Of Bets In Craps?
Craps offers a variety of betting options including Pass Line, Field Bet, Place Bets, and other strategic wagers catering to different player preferences.
Pass Line bets are placed before the come-out roll, and if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, it’s a win; however, rolling a 2, 3, or 12 results in a loss.
Field Bets are on numbers 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12, typically won if one of these numbers is rolled.
Place Bets allow you to wager on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10) to come up before a 7 is rolled, offering varying odds and payouts based on the chosen number.
Understanding these bets and their odds can enhance your success in the exhilarating game of Craps.
Pass Line Bet
The Pass Line Bet in Craps is a foundational wager placed before the Come Out Roll, offering favorable odds for players backing the shooter’s success.
When placing a Pass Line Bet, players are essentially betting that the shooter will throw a 7 or 11 on the Come Out Roll. If this occurs, the bet wins outright. If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, the bet is lost. In case of any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) being rolled, that number is set as the ‘point’, and the shooter needs to roll it again before throwing a 7 to win the bet.
The odds associated with the Pass Line Bet are particularly attractive, with a house edge of only around 1.41%. This makes it one of the most favorable bets for players in the game of craps. Understanding the strategic considerations when placing Pass Line Bets is crucial – players can choose to ‘take odds’ by placing additional bets behind the original Pass Line Bet, further increasing their potential payout. It’s important for players to be aware of the various betting options and odds in craps to make informed decisions and maximize their chances of winning.”
Don’t Pass Bet
The Don’t Pass Bet in Craps is a wager against the shooter, betting on the failure to establish the point number and offering distinct odds compared to the Pass Line Bet.
When a player places a Don’t Pass Bet, they are essentially supporting the casino by betting against the shooter. If the come-out roll is a 2 or 3, the Don’t Pass Bet wins, while a 7 or 11 results in a loss. Should the shooter roll a 12, it usually ends up as a push, depending on the casino’s rules. The most critical aspect of this bet is the 3:1 odds it provides when the shooter attempts to hit the point number. This can be seen as advantageous for players looking to take a contrarian approach in the game.
Come Bet
The Come Bet in Craps is placed after the Point Number is established, providing players with a wagering option for subsequent rounds.
In the context of a game of Craps, the Come Bet is a strategic move that many experienced players utilize to enhance their chances of winning. Once the Point Number has been set, players can place the Come Bet on the designated area of the Craps table. This bet essentially functions similarly to a Pass Line bet but is initiated after the establishment of the Point. By making a Come Bet, players are betting that a 7 or 11 will be rolled before the Point Number is repeated. The Come Bet shines in the later phases of gameplay, especially during the ‘come out roll.’ It is a way for players to stay engaged and potentially capitalize on favorable outcomes even after the initial phase of the game is complete. This strategic move adds an exciting element to the game and allows players to actively participate in the action. Understanding the timing and significance of the Come Bet can greatly influence the outcome of a Craps game.
Don’t Come Bet
The Don’t Come Bet in Craps is a wager against the shooter’s success after the Point Number is set, offering odds contrasting with the Come Bet.
Once the Point is established in a game of craps, a Don’t Come Bet is placed to bet that the shooter will not make their Point number before rolling a 7. This betting strategy is essentially betting against the shooter’s performance. If a 7 is rolled before the Point, the Don’t Come Bet wins. If the shooter hits their Point, the bet loses. The odds on a Don’t Come Bet work in a similar way to Don’t Pass bets, with the house having a slight edge over the player. Players who choose this bet are essentially rooting for the house and against the shooter’s success.
Place Bets
Place Bets in Craps allow players to wager on specific numbers being rolled before a seven, offering varying odds based on the selected numbers.
Within Craps, the numeric wagering options for Place Bets typically include 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10. Each number comes with its own set of odds and payouts, such as 9:5 for 4 and 10, 7:5 for 5 and 9, and 7:6 for 6 and 8. Understanding the odds associated with these numbers is crucial for players looking to maximize their chances of winning. Strategic considerations play a significant role in Place Bets, as players need to assess the risk-reward ratio and make informed decisions based on the probabilities involved.
Field Bet
The Field Bet in Craps involves wagering on specific numbers being rolled on the next dice throw, providing immediate payouts for certain outcomes.
The Field Bet typically includes the numbers 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, and 12. When the dice land on any of these numbers after a roll, players who placed bets on the Field win. The payouts can vary depending on the number that comes up. For instance, if a 3 or an 11 is rolled, the payout is usually 1:1. If a 2 or a 12 is rolled, the payout can be higher at around 2:1 or even 3:1. That’s why seasoned players often focus on the numbers that offer better odds to maximize their potential winnings.
Proposition Bets
Proposition Bets in Craps are specific wagers on dice outcomes within a roll, offering diverse betting options with varying odds and payouts.
Whether you’re at a physical casino or playing online, these bets add an exciting element to your Craps experience. From betting on the exact combination of the dice to wagering on specific total numbers, Proposition Bets allow players to get creative with their strategies. The odds associated with these bets can vary widely, making them appealing to those seeking higher payouts. It’s essential for players to understand the potential risks and rewards before diving into these specialized wagers.
Hardway Bets
Hardway Bets in Craps involve wagering on specific pairs of numbers being rolled before a seven or a different combination, providing distinct payouts based on the outcomes.
These bets are placed on pairs of the same number, such as double twos, threes, fours, or fives.
For instance, betting on a hard four means you are betting that the shooter will roll a pair of twos (2-2) before any other combination that totals four or a seven.
The odds for hitting a hardway and its corresponding payout differ depending on the number pair, with varying degrees of difficulty and reward.
Big 6 and Big 8 Bets
Big 6 and Big 8 Bets in Craps enable players to wager on the specific numbers 6 or 8 being rolled before a seven, with corresponding odds and payouts.
In the game of craps, the Big 6 and Big 8 bets are easy to understand yet crucial for players looking to make strategic decisions. When placing these bets, you are essentially betting that the numbers 6 or 8 will be rolled before a seven. These bets offer even money payouts, which means for every dollar you wager, you have the chance to win a dollar. This simplicity makes them appealing to newcomers and seasoned players alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the basic rules of playing Craps?
The basic rules of Craps involve players placing bets on the outcome of a roll or series of rolls of two dice. The player rolling the dice is called the shooter, and the other players can also place bets on the shooter’s rolls.
How do I win at Craps?
In Craps, players can win by betting on the shooter to roll a certain number before rolling a 7, or by betting on specific numbers to be rolled. The specific payouts and odds depend on the type of bet placed.
What are the different types of bets in Craps?
There are many different types of bets in Craps, including Pass Line, Don’t Pass, Come, Don’t Come, Place, Field, and more. These bets have different odds and payouts, so it’s important to understand them before playing.
Can I play Craps online?
Yes, many online casinos offer Craps games that can be played on desktop or mobile devices. However, the rules and payouts may differ slightly from traditional in-person Craps games.
Are there any strategies for playing Craps?
While there is no guaranteed strategy for winning at Craps, some players choose to use different betting systems, such as the Martingale or Paroli systems, in order to manage their bets and potentially increase their chances of winning.
How do I get started playing Craps?
To get started playing Craps, you can find a physical casino that offers the game or join an online casino. Familiarize yourself with the basic rules and types of bets, and start with smaller bets until you feel more comfortable with the game.