How to Play Craps: A Comprehensive Guide to the Classic Dice Game
Craps, also known as "the king of casino table games," is a fast-paced and exciting dice game that appeals to players of all skill levels. With its simple rules, thrilling gameplay, and potential for big wins, craps has become a staple in casinos worldwide.
Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or a newcomer to the world of table games, this comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to know about playing craps in Standard American English.
The Game Setup
Craps is typically played on a large, rectangular table designated specifically for the game. The layout of the table features a variety of betting areas, including:
- Pass Line: A bet that the shooter will win.
- Don’t Pass Line: A bet that the shooter will lose.
- Come Bet: A bet that the shooter will win after establishing a point.
- Don’t Come Bet: A bet that the shooter will lose after establishing a point.
- Odds Bet: A bet that accompanies a Pass or Don’t Pass bet and pays out based on the shooter’s number of rolls.
- Field Bet: A bet on specific combinations of dice to be rolled.
- Proposition Bets: A variety of side bets on specific events or outcomes.
The Gameplay
The Shooter
In craps, one player, known as the "shooter," takes turns rolling two dice against the back wall of the table. The shooter’s objective is to "make the point," which involves rolling a target number (the "point") before rolling a 7.
The Point
The point is established on the shooter’s first roll if a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 is rolled. The point remains in effect until it is either made or a 7 is rolled.
The Pass and Don’t Pass Bets
The Pass bet wins if the shooter makes the point before rolling a 7. The Don’t Pass bet wins if the shooter does not make the point and instead rolls a 7.
The Come and Don’t Come Bets
The Come bet and the Don’t Come bet are similar to the Pass and Don’t Pass bets, but they are initiated after the point has been established.
Odds Bets
Odds bets are additional bets that can be made to increase the payout on a Pass or Don’t Pass bet. Odds bets pay out based on the number of rolls the shooter has made since establishing the point.
Field Bets
Field bets are side bets on specific combinations of dice that could be rolled, including a 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12.
Proposition Bets
Proposition bets are a wide range of side bets that cover specific events or outcomes, such as whether the shooter will roll a pair of dice, a specific number, or will "seven out" (roll a 7) on their next roll.
Betting Strategies
While craps is a game of chance, there are certain betting strategies that can increase your chances of winning:
- Pass Line Betting: The Pass Line bet has a relatively low house edge and is a good option for beginners.
- Odds Betting: Odds bets have no house edge and can significantly increase your payout on Pass or Don’t Pass bets.
- Field Bets: Field bets can offer good payouts, but they have a higher house edge than Pass Line bets.
- Proposition Bets: Proposition bets have a high house edge and should be approached with caution.
Craps Etiquette
As with any casino game, it is important to observe proper etiquette when playing craps:
- Respect the Shooter: Do not talk to or distract the shooter while they are rolling the dice.
- Handle the Dice Properly: Use only the designated stick to move the dice. Do not roll or hold the dice in your hand.
- Be Courteous to Others: Craps is a social game, so be respectful of the other players at the table.
FAQ
Q: What is the best bet in craps?
A: The Pass Line bet has the lowest house edge and is the most popular bet.
Q: How do I "make the point"?
A: You make the point by rolling the target number before rolling a 7.
Q: What happens if I roll a 7 before making the point?
A: This is called "sevening out" and you lose your bet.
Q: What is an odds bet?
A: An odds bet is an additional bet that you can make to increase the payout on your Pass or Don’t Pass bet. Odds bets have no house edge.
Q: What is a proposition bet?
A: A proposition bet is a side bet on a specific event or outcome, such as rolling a pair of dice or a specific number. Proposition bets have a high house edge.
Q: Is it possible to win money playing craps?
A: Yes, it is possible to win money playing craps, but it is a game of chance and there is no guaranteed way to win.
Q: What is the house edge in craps?
A: The house edge varies depending on the bet you place. The house edge on the Pass Line bet is 1.41%, while the house edge on some proposition bets can be as high as 16.67%.
