Craps is a lively and exciting casino game that’s steeped in history. With all its different bets and rules, the game can seem a bit daunting at first, but don’t worry—it’s easier than it looks! This guide is designed to take you through the basics of craps, step by step, so you can join in the fun at the craps table with confidence.
Introduction to Craps
Craps is a fast-paced dice game that’s popular in casinos worldwide, but its origins are thought to trace back to an old English game called “Hazard.” The game found its way to America through French settlers and evolved into the craps we know today. The game’s energy is infectious, with players cheering and dice clattering down the table.
The basic idea of craps is to bet on the outcome of a roll or series of rolls of two six-sided dice. The key to the game is understanding the different types of bets you can make, which we’ll cover in detail.
The Layout of the Craps Table
Before you roll those dice, it’s important to get familiar with the craps table. The table might seem complex at first glance, but it all makes sense once you know what’s what.
Table Layout Overview
The craps table has three main sections:
- The Pass Line Area: This is where players place their Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line bets. It’s the most straightforward area of the table.
- The Come Area: This section is used for Come and Don’t Come bets, similar to Pass and Don’t Pass but can be made after the come-out roll.
- The Centre Area: This is where the more complex bets, like the Field, Place, and Proposition bets, are placed.
A Typical Craps Table Layout
| Section | Description |
|---|---|
| Pass Line | It’s a one-roll bet that covers multiple numbers. |
| Don’t Pass Line | Opposite of the Pass Line, for betting against the shooter. |
| Come | Used for Come bets, placed after the point is established. |
| Don’t Come | Opposite of the Come bet area, for betting against the point. |
| Field | A one-roll bet that covers multiple numbers. |
| Big 6 and Big 8 | Simple bets that 6 or 8 will be rolled before a 7. |
| Proposition Bets | Centre of the table, offering high-risk, high-reward bets. |
The dealer (or stickman) controls the centre area, while the boxer oversees the game and handles the chips. Understanding the layout will help you know where to place your bets and follow the action.
The Basics of Craps
Craps is played in rounds, with the first roll of a round called the come-out roll. A player (known as the “shooter”) rolls two dice, and the outcome of these rolls determines what happens next.
The Come-Out Roll
- Natural: If the come-out roll is a 7 or 11, it’s called a “natural,” and any Pass Line bets win.
- Craps: If the come-out roll is 2, 3, or 12, it’s called “craps,” and any Pass Line bets lose.
- Point: If the come-out roll is any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10), that number becomes the “point.” The game then moves into the next phase, where the goal is to roll the point number again before rolling a 7.
The Point Phase
Once a point is established, the shooter rolls the dice until the point number or a seven is rolled. If the point is rolled before a 7, Pass Line bets win. Pass Line bets lose if a seven is rolled first and the round ends.
Types of Craps Bets
There are numerous betting options in craps, but we’ll focus on the most common ones to get you started.
Pass Line Bet
- How It Works: Place your bet on the Pass Line before the come-out roll. If the come-out roll is 7 or 11, you win even money. If it’s 2, 3, or 12, you lose. If a point is established, you win if the point is rolled again before a 7.
Don’t Pass Line Bet
- How It Works: This is the opposite of the Pass Line bet. You win if the come-out roll is 2 or 3 and lose on 7 or 11. A 12 is a tie (push). If a point is established, you win if a 7 is rolled before the point number.
Come Bet
- How It Works: Similar to the Pass Line bet but made after establishing the point. The next roll acts as a come-out roll for your bet.
Don’t Come Bet
- How It Works: The opposite of the Come bet. Made after the point is established, you win if a 7 is rolled before the next come-out number.
Odds Bets
- How It Works: After establishing a point, you can make an additional bet behind your Pass, Don’t Pass, Come, or Don’t Come bet. This bet pays true odds and has no house edge, making it one of the best bets in the casino.
| Bet Type | Payout (if point is 4 or 10) | Payout (if point is 5 or 9) | Payout (if point is 6 or 8) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pass Line Odds | 2 to 1 | 3 to 2 | 6 to 5 |
| Don’t Pass Odds | 1 to 2 | 2 to 3 | 5 to 6 |
Place Bets
- How It Works: You can bet on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) to be rolled before a 7. Each number has different odds and payouts.
Field Bets
- How It Works: A one-roll bet that wins if the next roll is a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12. The payout is even money, except for 2 and 12, which typically pay double.
Proposition Bets
- How It Works: These are high-risk, high-reward bets placed in the centre of the table. They include bets like Any 7, Any Craps, and specific doubles (like “Hard 8”). These bets have a high house edge, so they’re more for fun than strategy.
Strategy Tips for Beginners
Catch is a game of chance, but there are ways to play smart. Here are some tips to get you started:
1. Stick to the Pass Line and Odds Bets
The Pass Line bet, combined with an Odds bet, gives you the best chance of winning with the lowest house edge. This combination is the bread and butter of craps strategy.
2. Avoid Proposition Bets
Proposition bets might be tempting because of their high payouts, but they have a steep house edge. If you’re starting, it’s best to steer clear of these until you’re more familiar with the game.
3. Learn to Manage Your Bankroll
Decide on a budget before you start playing and stick to it. Raps can be fast-paced, and getting caught up in the excitement is easy. Only bet what you’re comfortable losing.
4. Observe Before You Play
If you’re new to craps, it’s a good idea to watch a few rounds before joining the game. This will give you a feel for the game’s pace and flow.
Craps Etiquette
Craps is a social game, and like all social settings, there are some unwritten rules you should follow to ensure everyone has a good time.
1. Handle the Dice Properly
When it’s your turn to roll, use only one hand to handle the dice. Make sure you roll them down the table so they hit the back wall.
2. Keep Your Hands Clear of the Table
When the shooter is about to roll, keep your hands and chips clear of the table. This prevents interference with the roll and ensures the game runs smoothly.
3. Respect the Dealers and Other Players
Craps can be an emotional game, but it’s important to stay polite and respectful. Celebrate your wins, but don’t gloat; take your losses in stride.
4. Tip the Dealers
Tipping the dealers is customary, especially if you’ve had a good run. You can place a bet for the dealers or simply hand them a chip.
Glossary of Common Craps Terms
Rap’s unique language can be a bit confusing at first. Here are some common terms you’ll hear at the table:
- Shooter: The player who rolls the dice.
- Come-Out Roll: The first roll of the round.
- Natural: A roll of 7 or 11 on the come-out roll.
- Craps: A roll of 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll.
- Point: The number established by the come-out roll (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10).
- Seven Out: Rolling a 7 before the point is made, ending the round.
- Box Numbers: 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10.
- Hardway: Rolling a pair of the same number (like two 4s for a “Hard 8”).
- Yo: A bet on 11, often called “yo-leven.”
Conclusion
Craps is a thrilling game that combines luck, strategy, and social interaction. While the array of bets might initially seem overwhelming, sticking to the basics will help you get comfortable quickly. The key is enjoying the game, respecting table manners, and managing your bankroll wisely.
Whether you’re in a casino or playing online, craps offers endless excitement and the chance to win big. Now that you’re armed with this beginner’s guide, you’re ready to join the action at the craps table with confidence. May the dice roll in your favour!
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Craps
Craps is a game that can bring up quite a few questions, especially for those who are new to the game. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about craps, along with straightforward answers to help you better understand the game.
1. What is the minimum bet at a craps table?
The minimum bet at a craps table varies depending on the casino. It can be as low as $5 or as high as $25 or more. Online casinos often offer lower minimum bets, making them a good option for beginners.
2. What are the odds bets in craps?
Odds bets are additional bets you can make after a point is established. These bets have no house edge and pay out at true odds. They are the best bets in craps because they don’t increase the casino’s advantage.
3. Is it better to bet on the Pass Line or the Don’t Pass Line?
Both bets are good options with a low house edge, but they offer different experiences. The Pass Line bet is more popular and lets you cheer along with the shooter. The Don’t Pass Line bet is less common and involves betting against the shooter, which can feel less social but offers a similar house edge.
4. What happens if I roll a 7 on the comeout roll?
If you roll a 7 on the come-out roll and place a Pass Line bet, you win immediately. If you’ve placed a Don’t Pass Line bet, you lose. Rolling a 7 on the come-out roll is known as a “natural.”
5. Can I make more than one type of bet simultaneously?
Yes, you can make multiple bets at the same time in craps. For example, you can simultaneously have a Pass Line bet and a Come bet. Each bet is independent of the others, so they’re resolved based on different roles or outcomes.
6. What is the house edge in craps?
The house edge in craps varies depending on the bet. For pass-line bets, the house edge is about 1.41%. Don’t Pass Line bets have a slightly lower house edge at 1.36%. Proposition bets, like Any 7, have a much higher house edge, sometimes exceeding 13%.
