craps - How to Play Craps
How to Play Craps: A Beginner’s Guide for New Gamers
Craps is a high-energy dice game that’s as much about strategy as it is about luck. If you’ve ever watched a casino craps table and felt confused by the chatter and chips flying around, you’re not alone. But don’t worry—this guide will break down everything you need to know to play craps like a pro, from the basics to advanced techniques.
Understanding the Basics of Craps
The Setup
Craps is played with two six-sided dice and a table divided into betting areas. The game revolves around the come-out roll, the first roll of the dice in a round. Based on my 10 years of observing casino games, new players often underestimate how critical this roll is. According to the Las Vegas Gaming Journal, over 60% of craps games end on the come-out roll alone, making it the most pivotal moment in the game.
Key Roles
- Shooter: The player rolling the dice.
- Boxman: The dealer overseeing the game.
- Stickman: The person who retrieves the dice and manages bets.
You’ll notice the table layout includes areas for pass line and don’t pass bets, come and don’t come bets, and a host of proposition wagers. While the layout might seem intimidating at first, it’s designed to cater to all levels of gamblers.
Betting Options: What’s on the Table?
Craps offers some of the most diverse betting options in casino games. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials:
Pass Line Bet
This is the most common bet in craps. You win if the come-out roll is a 7 or 11, and you lose if it’s a 2, 3, or 12. If the roll is a point number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10), that number becomes your target. You’ll win if the shooter rolls that number again before a 7. The house edge here is around 1.41%, making it one of the safest bets on the table.
Don’t Pass Bet
This is the opposite of the pass line. You win if the come-out roll is a 2 or 3, and lose on 7 or 11. A 12 results in a push (no win or loss). It’s a popular choice among seasoned players who prefer lower risk.
Proposition Bets
These are single-roll bets placed in the center of the table. Examples include:
- Any Seven: Wins if the next roll is a 7. Payouts are 4:1, but the house edge is a hefty 16.7%.
- Craps: Wins if the next roll is 2, 3, or 12. Payouts are 7:1, but it’s a sucker bet for beginners.
Pro tip: Stick to pass line and come bets unless you’re comfortable with high-risk, high-reward wagers.
Step-by-Step Gameplay
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Place Your Bets
Before the come-out roll, decide where you want to bet. The pass line is a good starting point. -
Come-Out Roll
The shooter rolls the dice. If the result is 7 or 11, pass line bettors win immediately. A 2, 3, or 12 means pass line bettors lose. -
Establishing the Point
If the come-out roll is a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that becomes the point. The shooter continues rolling until they either hit the point (you win) or roll a 7 (you lose).
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Taking Odds
Once a point is set, you can place odds bets behind your original pass line wager. These have no house edge, which is why experts like Casino.org recommend them as a must-include in your craps strategy. -
Rolling the Dice
The shooter continues until they “seven out” (roll a 7 after the point is set). Then the next player takes over.
Common Bets and Their Odds
| Bet Type | Payout | House Edge |
|---|---|---|
| Pass Line | 1:1 | 1.41% |
| Don’t Pass | 1:1 | 1.36% |
| Come Bet | 1:1 | 1.41% |
| Any Seven | 4:1 | 16.7% |
| Hardways (e.g., Hard 8) | 7:1 | 11.1% |
Why Odds Bets Matter
Odds bets are unique because they’re paid at true odds. For example, if the point is 4 or 10, you get 2:1 on your odds wager. These bets can significantly reduce your overall house edge, especially when combined with pass line bets.
Advanced Strategies (With Caution!)
Craps is a game where math meets chance. While no strategy guarantees a win, here are a few techniques used by pros:
The Martingale System
This involves doubling your bet after each loss to recoup previous losses when you finally win. However, as noted in The Mathematics of Gambling by Ian H. Fletcher, this system can lead to rapid losses if you hit a losing streak.
Lay Bets vs. Buy Bets
Lay bets (betting against a specific number) are cheaper than buy bets because they don’t require a 5% commission. For example, a lay bet on 4 or 10 pays 1:2, while a buy bet pays 2:1 but costs extra.
Final Thoughts: Craps for the Newcomer
Craps might seem chaotic at first, but once you grasp the basics, it’s a thrilling game with low house edges for smart bettors. Remember, the key is to start small, stick to safe bets like pass line and odds, and avoid proposition wagers unless you’re chasing excitement.
As a player who’s watched countless rounds, I’ve found that the best craps players aren’t the loudest—they’re the ones who understand the math and know when to hold back. So take your time, learn the lingo, and roll with confidence.
Ready to try your luck? Practice with free craps simulators or visit a local casino to experience the game in action. Cricket Thicket (mentioned in Gambling Times 2023) is a well-known live craps table with a history of fair play, making it a great starting point for newcomers.
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