It might look simple – there are only two dice after all – but the game of craps is probably one of the most complicated and intimidating games you'll find in a casino, online or otherwise.
Things aren't helped by a rather convoluted-looking table, which is itself enough to put off beginners. If you've ever wanted to shoot dice with the best of them (virtually or with actual dice) then fear not – below is a comprehensive and easy round-up of the craps table and what it all means.
The first thing to learn in Craps 101 is that the game is based around simply betting on the outcome of the roll of two dice, but there are lots of ways the dice can fall. Each bet comes with specific odds, explaining why the craps table has so many different fields for betting.
The other thing you'll notice (mainly at a physical casino) is the staff around the table. There's the boxman, essentially the game supervisor and cash handler. Then standing opposite the boxman is the stickman, who pushes the dice, calls results and determines how fast games play out.
There can be as many as eight players at the craps table, and each player can bet on every roll. Each player gets a chance at rolling the dice, aka being the shooter. A player’s first roll at the table is known as the come-out roll. This initial roll has three possible outcomes:
A come-out roll that lands a 7 or 11 is a winner and is known as a natural. Any bets that were placed on the “pass line” for this roll will win, and any on the “don’t pass line” will lose. Whenever a natural is rolled, you’ll get another chance at shooting the dice.
When players get a 2, 3 or 12 during a come-out roll, any bets placed on the pass line will lose. Bets on the don’t pass line will win, although the 12 or 2 may be a push depending on the casino’s rules for the craps table. The upside of shooting craps is that you’ll get another shot at rolling the dice.
When your initial roll is one of the place numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9 or 10), the dealer marks it as a point on the table. You’ll then have to roll that number before a 7 for any pass bets to win and bets on the don’t pass the line to lose, plus you’ll get to roll again. Rolling a 7 before the point will have the opposite effect.
From the simple pass line bet to bets on any of the place numbers 4, 5, 6, 8, 9 or 10 to land, there are various ways to bet on each roll of the dice. Here’s a full breakdown of the different bets available to make at the craps table:
Don’t get nervous about any of these, it’s easier than you think. Place your bets on the table, shoot the dice and let the stickman do the rest. Once you’ve added these bets to your strategy, you’ll get a much better understanding of how to bet at the craps table.
You’ve probably heard the phrase “snake eyes” before, but there’s a lot more lingo than that used to talk and play craps. Whether you’re at the casino or playing craps online, it helps to pick up the slang used around the table to get a better understanding of the game. Be sure to check out our definitive list of the best casino sites so you can start playing Craps.
Whether you’re at the casino or playing craps online, it helps to pick up the slang used around the table to get a better understanding of the game.
Although technically not actually part of the rules, the language of craps has a long history. If you want to fit in at the craps table, you’ll have to pick it up.
Simply check over the rules (as well as any house rules your online or local casino might have), then go to the best online craps site or physical casino to shoot some dice. Remember, it's always best to bet low and conservatively, especially if you're completely new to the game.
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