Craps is one of the most exciting and fast paced games in the casino and attracts new players with its energy and simplicity. The craps table can look scary at first but this beginner’s guide will break it all down so you can feel comfortable placing bets, rolling the dice and joining the party. Whether you’re playing craps online or in a casino this guide has everything you need to know from craps rules to tips and strategies to win big.
Craps Rules
Before you get to the table you need to understand the basics of craps. Here’s a breakdown of what’s involved in the game.
Having the Right Credits
Before you join a craps game make sure you have the right credits to play. In a physical casino this means exchanging cash for chips, in an online craps game this means adding funds to your account balance.
The Dice
Craps is played with 2 six sided dice. The outcome of each roll is determined by the total of the 2 dice which ranges from 2 to 12. The shooter (one of the players at the table) rolls the dice while others place bets on the outcome.
The Craps Table Crew
The craps table is run by a team of casino staff who oversee the game and help players. This crew includes a boxman (who supervises the game), dealers (who handle the bets) and a stickman (who manages the dice). Knowing who’s who can help you feel more at ease at the table.
Placing Bets
Craps is known for its many betting options and understanding how to place different bets is key. Some of the main bets are the Pass Line, Don’t Pass, Come and Don’t Come bets. As a beginner start with the simple bets and work your way up to the more complex ones.
The Shooter
In craps one player is the shooter and rolls the dice. Other players at the table can bet on the shooter’s outcome. The role of shooter rotates among players so everyone gets a chance to roll.
Betting Limits
Each craps table has betting limits which are the minimum and maximum bets allowed. Knowing these limits before you play is key to managing your bankroll and feeling comfortable with the stakes.
How It Works – Craps 101
The objective of craps is to predict the outcome of the dice roll. The game starts with the “come-out roll” where the shooter rolls the dice to establish a point or win. A 7 or 11 on the come-out roll is a win for the Pass Line, 2, 3 or 12 is a loss. If any other number is rolled it becomes the point and the shooter must roll the point number again before rolling a 7 to win.
How to Play
To play craps you place a bet on the Pass Line or Don’t Pass Line. The shooter rolls the dice hoping for an instant win (7 or 11) or to establish a point. Once the point is established the shooter keeps rolling to match the point number without rolling a 7 which would end the round. This cycle repeats with each come-out roll giving players many chances to place different bets.
How to Bet
Craps has many betting options to suit all types of players, and using a preferred payment method can make managing your bets easier. Here are some of the most popular betting options:
- Pass Line Bet: A basic bet on the shooter winning with a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll.
- Don’t Pass Bet: Betting against the shooter, where a 2 or 3 wins, and a 7 loses.
- Come Bet: Similar to the Pass Line bet but placed after a point is established.
- Don’t Come Bet: Similar to the Don’t Pass bet but placed after a point is set.
As a beginner, stick to these simpler bets before moving on to Place bets, Field bets, and Proposition bets.
Types of Craps Games
In addition to the traditional craps there are several variations of the game found in casinos and online:
- Bank Craps: The standard version played in most casinos.
- New York Craps: This version has different table layouts and only allows certain bets.
- High Point Craps: A variation where 2 or 3 is ignored and 11 or 12 is an instant win.
- Crapless Craps: Removes 2, 3 and 12 from the losing numbers so the shooter has a better chance of winning.
Online casinos offer these variations so you can try different types of craps online.
Craps Guide Tips & Strategy
Learning the game is only half the battle; applying a few tips and strategies will help you win at craps.
- Start with the Pass Line Bet: It’s a basic bet with a low house edge so it’s perfect for beginners.
- Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget before you play and stick to it, don’t chase your losses.
- Avoid Proposition Bets: They may seem attractive with high payouts but have a much higher house edge.
- Practice with Free Games: Many online casinos offer free craps games. Practice so you can get familiar with the rules without risking real money.
- Use Odds Bets Wisely: Odds bets placed after a point is established have no house edge so they are one of the best bets in craps.
- Stay Patient and Have Fun: Craps is fast paced so stay calm and enjoy the experience rather than focusing on winning.
FAQs
What are the basic craps rules?
Craps is a dice game where you bet on the outcome of a roll. The game starts with the come-out roll where you bet on the outcome (7 or 11 wins; 2, 3 or 12 loses). If another number is rolled it becomes the point.
How do I bet on craps?
You can bet on the Pass Line, Don’t Pass, Come or Don’t Come lines. Each bet has different odds and payouts so it’s best to start with the simpler bets.
Is there a winning craps strategy?
No strategy is a guarantee but using smart betting and managing your bankroll will help.
Can I play craps online?
Yes, many online casinos offer craps games so you can play from home. Online craps often has different variations so you can try different types.
What’s the role of the shooter in craps?
The shooter rolls the dice to determine the outcome of the round. Other players bet on the shooter’s roll.
