Craps: Variations

Curious about craps? This popular dice game has been a staple in casinos for years, but do you know all the variations?

From traditional Bank Craps to the unique Die Rich Craps, each version offers a different experience.

Learn about the various betting options, house edge, and gameplay rules that set these variations apart from the classic game.

Discover which variation of craps is the most popular among players, whether it’s the excitement of Las Vegas Craps, the convenience of Online Craps, or the grit of Street Craps.

Get ready to roll the dice and explore the world of craps like never before!

What Is Craps?

Craps is a popular dice-based game known for its high energy and excitement in casinos.

Players gather around the Craps table to take turns rolling the dice and betting on the outcomes. The game follows a set of specific rules where the shooter must place a bet on either the Pass Line or the Don’t Pass Line. Depending on the initial roll, players can win or lose based on subsequent rolls, with various betting options and odds available. Craps also involves other betting areas on the table, such as Come and Don’t Come bets, providing different ways for players to engage and strategize.

How To Play Craps?

To play Craps, participants place bets on the outcome of a roll or series of rolls of two dice.

One of the most common bets in Craps is the Pass Line bet, where players wager on the shooter to win. During the come-out roll, a roll of 7 or 11 is a win, while 2, 3, or 12 is a loss. If another number is rolled, it becomes the point number. Players can also bet on the Don’t Pass Line, which is the opposite of the Pass Line bet. There are various betting options including Place bets, Field bets, and Hardways bets, each with its own rules and payouts.

Pass Line Bet

The Pass Line bet in Craps is one of the most common and straightforward bets where players wager on the shooter to win.

When a player places a Pass Line bet, they are essentially betting that the shooter will roll a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll or that the shooter will make the point before rolling a 7. This bet is usually placed before the come-out roll.

If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, the Pass Line bet wins. If a 2, 3, or 12 is rolled on the come-out, the bet loses. If any other number is rolled, that number becomes the ‘point’. The shooter must then roll that point again before rolling a 7 for the Pass Line bet to win.

The Pass Line bet pays even money, which means if the bet wins, the player receives the same amount they wagered. The Pass Line bet is an integral part of the Craps table layout, located along the sides where players can easily place their bets and interact with the game.

Don’t Pass Bet

The Don’t Pass bet in Craps involves wagering against the shooter, betting that they will lose.

When placing a Don’t Pass bet, the player is essentially taking the side opposite to most other bettors at the table. In this bet, the player wins if the come-out roll is a 2 or 3, ties (pushes) if a 12 is rolled, and loses if a 7 or 11 is rolled. If any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) is rolled, the goal is for a 7 to be rolled before that number comes up again, which would result in a win.

Although the Don’t Pass bet may seem counterintuitive as it goes against the shooter, it can be a strategic move in certain situations. By betting against the shooter, players can benefit from higher odds and a lower house edge compared to other bets on the table.

Come Bet

The Come bet in Craps is placed after the shooter establishes a point in the come-out roll, betting on specific numbers to appear.

When a point is set, the Come bet essentially puts money on the line that a 7 or 11 will be rolled before the point number appears again. It’s a wager that the shooter will succeed. Once a Come bet is made, the shooter continues to roll the dice. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, the Come bet wins. Rolling a 2, 3, or 12 results in a loss. If any other number is rolled, that number becomes the new point for the Come bet. Players can then place additional bets or adjust their strategy based on this new point.

Don’t Come Bet

The Don’t Come bet in Craps mirrors the Don’t Pass bet but is placed after a point has been established, wagering against the shooter.

Similarly to the Don’t Pass bet, the Don’t Come bet is designed for players who believe that the shooter will not make the point. In this case, if a 7 or 11 is rolled, the bet loses, while if a 2, 3, or 12 is rolled, it wins. If any other number is rolled, that number becomes the ‘come point,’ and the bet moves behind that number. The odds for the Don’t Come bet are favorable, as the house edge is relatively low compared to other bets on the Craps table.

Strategically, players may consider using the Don’t Come bet to hedge their bets or as part of a more conservative approach to Craps. By betting against the shooter at a different point in the game, players can diversify their strategy and potentially increase their chances of winning. Like all bets in Craps, it is essential to understand the probabilities and odds involved before placing significant wagers.

What Are The Different Variations Of Craps?

Craps has evolved over time, leading to various exciting variants that offer unique twists and gameplay experiences.

Originating in the United States, Craps has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. One of the most popular variations is Bank Craps, which is commonly played in casinos across the world. In Bank Craps, one player serves as the bank, while others bet against the bank.

On the other hand, Crapless Craps eliminates the possibility of losing on the ‘come-out’ roll, making it an intriguing option for players looking for a different challenge. Another interesting variant is High Point Craps, where the highest possible number rolled becomes the point.

Bank Craps

Bank Craps, also known as Las Vegas Craps, is the standard version found in most casinos, featuring a house edge and specific betting rules.

One key aspect of Bank Craps is its house edge, typically around 1.41%. This advantage helps ensure the casino maintains profitability over the long run. Strategic considerations come into play for players looking to minimize this edge through careful betting choices and understanding the odds. Unlike other variants, Bank Craps maintains a straightforward gameplay style with distinct betting options like the Pass Line, Don’t Pass Line, Come, and Don’t Come bets, contributing to its popularity among gamblers. Players often analyze different strategies to improve their chances of winning in this classic casino game.

Crapless Craps

Crapless Craps, also known as Never Ever Craps, is a variant that eliminates the possibility of losing on the come-out roll, offering both low and high limit options for players.

This unique version of Craps adds an intriguing twist to the traditional game. One of the standout features of Crapless Craps is that 2, 3, 11, and 12 become point numbers instead of Craps numbers. Players can bet on these numbers as they continue rolling the dice without the risk of losing immediately. This rule significantly alters the strategy and dynamics of the game, providing a fresh experience for seasoned players looking for new challenges.

High Point Craps

High Point Craps is a variant where rolling an 11 or 12 on the come-out roll becomes the point, leading to enhanced payouts for successful bets.

Unlike traditional craps, in High Point Craps, when the come-out roll results in an 11 or 12, that number becomes the point. Players can place bets on whether the shooter will roll the point number before a 7. If successful, these bets yield higher payouts than standard craps games. The point system in High Point Craps offers an interesting twist to the classic game, adding an element of excitement and strategy in predicting the outcome of the shooter’s rolls.

Simplified Craps

Simplified Craps offers a streamlined version of the game, making it more accessible to beginners with simplified rules and faster gameplay.

The main difference between Simplified Craps and traditional Craps lies in the simplicity of the rules and the speed of the game. In Simplified Craps, players only need to focus on a few key bets, such as Pass and Don’t Pass, making it easier to grasp for newcomers.

In Simplified Craps, the gameplay is expedited compared to traditional Craps, with fewer betting options and a quicker resolution of rounds. This makes it a great option for those looking for a more fast-paced and straightforward version of the classic casino game.

New York Craps

New York Craps, also known as Street Craps, is a dice-based game popular in urban settings, known for its fast-paced and informal gameplay.

What sets New York Craps apart from the traditional casino version is its simplicity and accessibility – all that’s needed are a pair of dice, a flat surface, and eager participants. Players typically gather on street corners, making impromptu bets on the outcome of the dice rolls. This casual atmosphere creates a sense of camaraderie among the players, with cheers and groans accompanying each toss.

Die Rich Craps

Die Rich Craps introduces a unique betting system where players bet on the outcome of two dice rolls, offering different odds and payout structures.

Unlike standard Craps, Die Rich Craps incorporates a special variation in its betting options, such as the ‘Die Rich Bet’ and ‘Die Poor Bet,’ which add an exciting twist to the game and provide players with diverse strategies to explore. The odds calculations in Die Rich Craps are meticulously designed to cater to the intricacies of the game, offering players a blend of challenge and reward. Players can delve into the tactical nuances of predicting specific outcomes through this innovative betting system, creating an engaging and dynamic gaming experience.

Scarney Craps

Scarney Craps is a variation that combines elements of Craps with playing cards, creating a hybrid game with unique rules and strategic elements.

This innovative twist introduces a deck of cards alongside the traditional dice, altering the dynamics of gameplay.

Scarney Craps requires players to consider both the card values and the dice outcomes, adding layers of strategy.

Players not only bet on the dice rolls but also strategically use their cards to influence outcomes, making each round suspenseful and full of strategic decisions.

How Do The Variations Differ From Traditional Craps?

The variations of Craps offer unique rule sets, betting options, and house edge adjustments that differentiate them from traditional Craps.

For example, in Simplified Craps, the rules are stripped down, making it easier for beginners to grasp the game. On the other hand, Crapless Craps eliminates the possibility of losing on the come-out roll but adjusts the odds accordingly. Additionally, High Point Craps assigns specific point values to the rolls, changing the dynamics of the game. These variations introduce exciting twists that can appeal to different types of players and provide varied experiences at the Craps table.

Betting Options

The Craps variations introduce diverse betting options with varying odds and strategic implications, providing players with a range of choices to customize their gameplay experience.

In Craps, players can take advantage of unique betting options such as ‘Pass Line’ and ‘Don’t Pass Line’ bets, each with its own set of odds and potential outcomes. Pass Line bets are considered one of the most popular options due to their favorable odds, offering a house edge of around 1.41%. On the other hand, ‘Don’t Pass Line’ bets come with slightly better odds for the player but could potentially lead to social awkwardness as they go against the majority of the table.

Aside from these basic bets, more advanced options like ‘Come’ and ‘Don’t Come’ bets provide players with additional strategic considerations. These bets can be placed after the initial roll, allowing players to capitalize on emerging patterns and trends in the game. The odds for these bets can vary depending on the specific Craps variation being played, so it’s essential for players to understand the rules and payouts before placing their bets.

House Edge

Each Craps variation features a specific house edge that influences the game’s payout structure and strategic decisions for players.

House edge in Craps refers to the statistical advantage the casino holds over players in a specific variation. The house edge determines the likelihood of winning and impacts the potential payouts in the game.

Understanding the house edge is crucial for players as it allows them to make informed decisions about their bets and strategies. Variations with lower house edges are often more favorable for players, offering better odds of winning and potentially higher payouts.

Players can employ various strategies to minimize the impact of the house edge on their gameplay, such as betting on certain outcomes that have lower odds but higher payouts, or managing their bankroll effectively to withstand fluctuations in the game.

Payouts

Payouts in Craps variations vary based on the unique rules and odds of each variant, offering players different reward structures for successful bets.

For instance, in the popular ‘Pass Line’ bet, players can expect a 1:1 payout ratio, highlighting the more favorable odds associated with this particular wager. Conversely, more complex bets like ‘Hardways’ or ‘Horn’ can offer higher payouts, but these come at the cost of lower probabilities of winning. Understanding the relationship between odds and potential payouts is vital in determining which betting strategies to employ in various Craps games. It’s important for players to familiarize themselves with the specific rules and odds of each variant to maximize their potential returns.

Rules and Gameplay

The rules and gameplay mechanics of Craps variations introduce exciting deviations from traditional gameplay, impacting the overall experience for players and shooters.

Understanding the nuances of different Craps variants is essential for players looking to expand their horizons in this popular casino game. From the classic street game of Hazard to modern casino variations, each version comes with its own set of rules and shooting dynamics that can greatly influence the outcome of a game.

Rule changes such as different point systems, odds, and betting options add a layer of complexity and strategy to Craps, making each round a unique challenge. Players must adapt to these variations and interact with other shooters to navigate the game successfully.

Which Variation of Craps Is The Most Popular?

Among the various Craps variations, Las Vegas Craps remains one of the most popular choices in brick-and-mortar casinos, while Online Craps and Street Craps gain momentum in the digital and informal gaming scenes.

Las Vegas Craps, often synonymous with the glitz and glamour of traditional casinos, attracts players seeking an immersive and upscale gaming experience. The lively atmosphere, elegant tables, and skilled dealers contribute to its enduring appeal among gambling enthusiasts.

On the other hand, Online Craps offers a convenient and accessible alternative, allowing players to enjoy the game from the comfort of their homes. The online platform provides a diverse range of virtual tables and betting options, catering to both novice and experienced players.

Street Craps, known for its spontaneous and informal nature, has gained popularity among groups of friends and in urban settings. The simplicity of the game and the social aspect of playing outdoors or in casual settings add to its charm in modern gaming environments.

Las Vegas Craps

Las Vegas Craps, a traditional favorite in casinos, features a standard house edge and attracts players with its classic gameplay experience.

One of the defining characteristics of Las Vegas Craps is the lively and engaging atmosphere it offers. Players gather around the table, creating a sense of camaraderie and excitement that is unique to this variant. The game involves throwing dice and placing bets on the outcome, adding an element of strategy and anticipation. Compared to Online Craps, the Las Vegas version provides a more immersive and social experience, allowing participants to interact with each other and the dealer.

Regarding house edge, Las Vegas Craps typically has a lower advantage compared to other casino games, making it a popular choice among players looking for better odds. This makes it more attractive than Street Craps, which often involves informal settings and rules. Players at DraftKings casinos, known for their variety of games, may find Las Vegas Craps to be a refreshing and entertaining option that blends luck and skill.

Online Craps

Online Craps offers a convenient and accessible way to enjoy the game from the comfort of one’s home, introducing unique odds and player interaction features in virtual settings.

This online adaptation of Craps brings the thrill of the traditional casino experience to the digital realm, where players can engage in the game at any time, without physical constraints. Through sophisticated algorithms, Online Craps calculates odds instantly, providing real-time feedback to players as they make decisions. The interactive nature of the game keeps players engaged, offering opportunities for strategic thinking and quick decision-making. Digital platforms often include tutorials and guides to help newcomers understand the rules and strategies of Craps, making it more accessible to a wider audience.

Street Craps

Street Craps, a casual dice-based game played in informal settings, combines elements of traditional Craps with unique card-based mechanics for a spontaneous gaming experience.

In Street Craps, players often gather in alleys, corners of city blocks, or even on sidewalks where the game is played using a pair of dice rolled against a wall or other surface, rather than on a traditional craps table. This informality adds to the charm of Street Craps as it fosters a sense of camaraderie among participants, who may shout out bets, cheer, and jeer in a lively and engaging atmosphere.

• Unlike classic Craps found in casinos that follow strict rules and regulations, Street Craps allows for more flexibility and improvisation, making each game unique and unpredictable. This freestyle aspect appeals to those seeking a spontaneous and unstructured gaming experience.
• Compared to its casino counterpart, Street Craps has a grassroots appeal, drawing in players from various backgrounds who come together to enjoy a shared passion for dice-based games. The absence of formalities and high stakes in Street Craps contributes to its inclusive and community-driven nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular variations of Craps?

The most popular variations of Craps are Bank Craps, Crapless Craps, and New York Craps.

Is there a difference in rules between the different variations of Craps?

Yes, each variation of Craps has its own unique set of rules and gameplay. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the rules before playing.

What is the main difference between Bank Craps and Crapless Craps?

The main difference between Bank Craps and Crapless Craps is that in Bank Craps, the player loses on a roll of 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, while in Crapless Craps, these numbers are considered point numbers.

Are there any variations of Craps that offer better odds for players?

Yes, some variations of Craps, such as Crapless Craps, offer better odds for players compared to traditional Bank Craps. However, it’s important to note that each variation has its own house edge.

Is it recommended for beginners to start with a certain variation of Craps?

It is recommended for beginners to start with Bank Craps, as it is the most common and widely played variation. Once you have a good understanding of the basic rules and gameplay, you can try out other variations.

Can you switch between different variations of Craps in the same game?

No, you cannot switch between different variations of Craps in the same game. Each variation has its own designated table and rules, so it’s important to choose which variation you want to play before starting the game.