Understanding the Basics of Craps
Craps is a dice game where players bet on the outcome of rolls or a series of rolls. Two six-sided dice are used, and the goal is to predict the numbers that will appear on the dice. The game can be played by one or more players, but in an online casino, you’ll be playing against the house.
The game begins with the “come-out roll,” which is the first roll of the dice. Based on the result of this roll, players can bet on the outcome of future rolls. The basic bets in craps are relatively simple, but the game also offers a wide variety of complex betting options that can be used to make the gameplay more exciting.
Craps Table Layout
The craps table may seem intimidating at first glance because of its many betting options. However, once you get familiar with the layout, it becomes easier to understand. The table is divided into areas for placing bets, with specific zones for the pass line, don’t pass line, come bets, and more.
In online craps, the virtual table is designed to replicate a real casino table, making it intuitive for players to navigate. Most online casinos will also provide helpful guides and tutorials to assist newcomers.
The Rules of Craps
Craps has a few basic rules that you must know to play:
- The Come-Out Roll: This is the first roll of the dice in a round. Players typically bet on the Pass Line or Don’t Pass Line before the come-out roll. If the roll is a 7 or 11, the Pass Line wins. If the roll is a 2, 3, or 12, the Don’t Pass Line wins. Any other result sets a “point.”
- Point Roll: If the come-out roll results in a point (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10), the shooter continues to roll the dice. The goal is to roll the point number again before a 7 is rolled. If the shooter rolls the point again, the Pass Line wins. If a 7 is rolled first, the Don’t Pass Line wins.
- Other Bets: There are several other betting options available in craps. These include “Come” bets, “Don’t Come” bets, and “Odds” bets, which offer more opportunities to win, depending on the situation.
How to Play Online Craps
Playing online craps is quite similar to playing in a land-based casino. After you choose a game at your chosen online casino, you will be able to place your bets before each roll. Here’s how to play online craps:
- Choose Your Bet: You can place bets on the Pass Line, Don’t Pass Line, Come, Don’t Come, or a variety of other options, depending on the online casino you’re playing at. Most players start by betting on the Pass Line during the come-out roll.
- Roll the Dice: Once all bets are placed, the dice are rolled. In online craps, the software generates the outcome of the dice roll. If you’re playing live craps, a real dealer will roll the dice for you, replicating the experience of a land-based casino.
- Win or Lose: Based on the result of the roll, your bet will either win or lose. If you’re betting on the Pass Line and the come-out roll is a 7 or 11, you win. If it’s a 2, 3, or 12, you lose. If a point is established, the game continues, and you aim to roll the point number before a 7.
Types of Bets in Online Craps
One of the most attractive features of craps is the variety of betting options available. Here are some of the most common bets you will encounter:
- Pass Line Bet: This is the most straightforward bet. You win if the come-out roll is a 7 or 11, and you lose if it’s a 2, 3, or 12. If a point is established, you win if the point is rolled again before a 7.
- Don’t Pass Line Bet: This is essentially the opposite of the Pass Line bet. You win if the come-out roll is a 2 or 3, and you lose if it’s a 7 or 11. A roll of 12 results in a push (no win or loss). If a point is established, you win if a 7 is rolled before the point.
- Come Bet: This is similar to a Pass Line bet but can be placed after the come-out roll. The first roll of the dice after you place your Come bet acts as your “come-out roll.”
- Don’t Come Bet: The opposite of the Come bet. If a 7 or 11 is rolled, you lose. If a 2 or 3 is rolled, you win. A 12 is a push. Once a point is established, the objective is for a 7 to be rolled before the point.
- Odds Bet: Once a point is set, you can place an Odds bet. This bet has no house edge and is considered one of the best bets in craps. You bet that the shooter will roll the point again before a 7 is rolled.
Strategies for Online Craps
While craps is largely a game of chance, there are strategies that can help you manage your bets and increase your chances of success. The most commonly used strategies are:
- Pass Line with Odds: This is considered one of the best strategies. By betting on the Pass Line and taking odds after a point is established, you are making a bet with low house edge.
- Don’t Pass with Odds: For those who prefer betting against the shooter, this strategy is another solid option. Betting on the Don’t Pass Line and taking odds on a point is one of the best ways to reduce the house edge.
- Flat Betting: This is a conservative strategy where you bet the same amount on every roll, regardless of the outcome. It helps control your bankroll and minimizes large losses.
Conclusion
Online craps is an exciting and fast-paced game that offers a variety of betting options and strategies. While it may seem complicated at first, understanding the basic rules and bets will make the game much more enjoyable. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, practicing good betting strategies and managing your bankroll will enhance your chances of success. Try out different strategies, and don’t forget to have fun while playing online craps!
