Craps is one of the most exciting and fast-paced games at any casino, offering tons of betting options and the chance for big wins. If you’re new to craps, the rules can seem complicated at first, but with a little guidance, you’ll soon be rolling the dice like a pro. This guide will explain the basics of craps, including the rules, common bets, and some simple strategies to help you get started.
What is Craps?
Craps is a dice game where players bet on the outcome of a roll or a series of rolls. Players take turns rolling two six-sided dice and make various bets on the possible results. The game is typically played at a large table with multiple players, but you can also enjoy online craps in casinos or apps.
The Basic Rules of Craps
Craps is usually played in two phases: the Come Out Roll and the Point Roll. Here’s how it works:
1. The Come Out Roll
The first roll of the game is called the Come Out Roll. The shooter (the player rolling the dice) is trying to establish a point. The possible outcomes of the Come Out Roll are:
- 7 or 11 (Natural): If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, they win, and the round ends.
- 2, 3, or 12 (Craps): If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, they lose, and the round ends.
- Any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10): The shooter establishes a point. The goal is now to roll this point number again before rolling a 7.
2. The Point Roll
Once a point is established, the shooter continues to roll. The objective is to roll the point number again before rolling a 7. If the point is rolled, the players who bet on the point win. If a 7 is rolled, it’s a “seven-out,” and the shooter loses.
Key Craps Bets to Know
There are many ways to bet in craps, but here are the most common bets that beginners should understand:
1. Pass Line Bet
This is the most basic and most common bet in craps. You place your chips on the Pass Line before the Come Out Roll.
- If the Come Out Roll is 7 or 11: You win.
- If the Come Out Roll is 2, 3, or 12: You lose.
- If any other number is rolled (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10): That number becomes the point, and your goal is to roll it again before a 7.
2. Don’t Pass Line Bet
The opposite of the Pass Line bet, this bet is made if you think the shooter will lose. You place your chips on the Don’t Pass Line before the Come Out Roll.
- If the Come Out Roll is 2 or 3: You win.
- If the Come Out Roll is 7 or 11: You lose.
- If the Come Out Roll is 12: It’s a push (no win, no loss).
- If a point is established: Your goal is for the shooter to roll a 7 before the point number.
Common Craps Terminology
- Shooter: The player who rolls the dice.
- Point: A number established on the Come Out Roll that the shooter aims to roll again before a 7.
- Seven-Out: When the shooter rolls a 7 after establishing a point, losing the round.
- Hard Way: A bet that the shooter will roll a specific pair of numbers (e.g., a 4 made up of two 2’s) before rolling a 7 or a different combination of that number.
Basic Craps Strategy for Beginners
Craps is a game of chance, but with the right betting strategy, you can maximize your chances of winning. Here are a few simple tips:
1. Stick to the Pass Line and Come Bets
These are the most straightforward bets with the lowest house edge, giving you the best chance to win. The Pass Line bet has a house edge of just 1.41%, and the Come Bet has the same edge.
2. Avoid the Proposition Bets
Proposition bets, like betting on specific numbers (e.g., “Any 7”), have a much higher house edge and should generally be avoided by beginners. These bets may seem tempting due to their high payouts, but the odds are against you.
Final Thoughts
Craps can seem intimidating at first, but once you understand the basic rules and bets, it’s an incredibly fun and exciting game to play. Stick to simple bets like the Pass Line or Come Bet to start, and consider learning the Odds Bet for better value. Remember, craps is all about having fun, so don’t be afraid to experiment and enjoy the energy of the game!
