Craps gambling is one of the most thrilling and dynamic games found in casinos worldwide. This high-energy craps has captivated players for decades, drawing them in with its fast pace and the social camaraderie it fosters. Whether you’re in a bustling craps casino in Las Vegas or playing online, the excitement of the craps table is unmatched.
At the heart of the craps game is its unique blend of strategy, chance, and community. Players gather around the table, cheering for each other’s rolls, and sharing in the collective anticipation of the dice. This social aspect is a significant part of what makes craps gambling so popular. The shared highs of a winning roll and the collective groans of a loss create a vibrant atmosphere that few other casino games can match.
From the simple Pass Line bet to more complex proposition bets, the game caters to all levels of expertise. This diversity in betting options not only adds to the excitement but also provides numerous opportunities for players to engage with the game and develop their skills.
The fascinating history and evolution of the craps game
The game boasts a rich and intriguing history that dates back centuries. The origins of craps can be traced to an old English game called Hazard, which was immensely popular in the 14th century. Hazard, brought to France by soldiers, eventually evolved into a simpler version known as “crabes,” a term believed to reference the numbers two and three, the worst possible rolls in Hazard.
As the game traveled to the New World, it underwent further transformation. In the early 19th century, Bernard Xavier Philippe de Marigny de Mandeville, a wealthy Louisiana landowner and gambler, introduced craps to New Orleans. He simplified the game, making it more accessible and increasing its popularity.
Craps continued to evolve, especially during World War II, when it became a favorite pastime among American soldiers. The soldiers’ enthusiasm for the game ensured its spread across the United States and solidified its status in both land-based casinos and, eventually, online platforms.
Today, craps is celebrated not only for its historical significance but also for the excitement and camaraderie it brings to the casino floor. Understanding the origins of craps and its development enriches the experience of playing this classic game.
Basic rules of craps
How to play craps begins with understanding the fundamental rules and the layout of the craps table, which is divided into three main areas: the center, and two identical side sections. Each side section features the Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line, Come and Don’t Come boxes, and various other betting areas, while the center contains Proposition Bets.
At the start of the craps game, a player known as the “shooter” rolls two six-sided dice. The game begins with the “come-out roll.” If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, it’s called a “natural,” and Pass Line bets win. If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, it’s called “craps,” and Pass Line bets lose. Any other number rolled becomes the “point.”
Once a point is established, the objective for the shooter is to roll that point number again before rolling a 7. If the shooter successfully rolls the point number, Pass Line bets win. If a 7 is rolled before the point, it’s called “seven-out,” and Pass Line bets lose. The dice are then passed to the next player.
Other players at the table can bet on the outcome of the shooter’s rolls. The main bets include the Pass Line bet, which wins on a natural and loses on craps during the come-out roll, and the Don’t Pass bet, which is the opposite, winning on craps and losing on a natural. After a point is established, players can also make Come and Don’t Come bets, which function similarly to the Pass and Don’t Pass bets but apply to subsequent rolls.
Proposition Bets are single-roll bets placed in the center of the table and offer high payouts but come with a higher house edge. Examples include betting on any craps (2, 3, or 12) or any seven.
Types of bets in craps
In the craps game, understanding the various types of bets is crucial to mastering how to play craps effectively. Each bet comes with its own set of rules, odds, and house edge. Here, we will detail the most common craps bets: Pass Line, Don’t Pass Line, Come, Don’t Come, Place Bets, and Proposition Bets.
Pass line bet
The Pass Line bet is the most straightforward and popular bet in the craps game. Players place this bet before the come-out roll. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, the Pass Line bet wins. If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12 (known as “craps”), the bet loses. If any other number is rolled, that number becomes the “point.” The bet wins if the point is rolled again before a 7. The odds for this bet are even money (1:1), and the house edge is approximately 1.41%.
Don’t pass line bet
The Don’t Pass Line bet is essentially the opposite of the Pass Line bet. It also must be placed before the come-out roll. This bet wins if the shooter rolls a 2 or 3, loses if a 7 or 11 is rolled, and pushes (no win, no loss) on a 12. If any other number is rolled, it becomes the point, and the Don’t Pass Line bet wins if a 7 is rolled before the point number. This bet also pays even money and has a slightly lower house edge of about 1.36%.
Come bet
The Come bet is similar to the Pass Line bet but can be made after the point has been established. The next roll of the dice acts as a new come-out roll for the Come bet. If a 7 or 11 is rolled, the Come bet wins. If a 2, 3, or 12 is rolled, the bet loses. Any other number becomes the Come point, and the bet wins if that number is rolled again before a 7. The house edge for Come bets is the same as the Pass Line bet at 1.41%.
Don’t come bet
The Don’t Come bet functions like the Don’t Pass Line bet but can be made after the point is established. The next roll serves as a new come-out roll for the Don’t Come bet. It wins on a 2 or 3, loses on a 7 or 11, and pushes on a 12. Any other number becomes the Don’t Come point, and the bet wins if a 7 is rolled before the point number. The house edge for Don’t Come bets is also 1.36%.
Place bets
Place bets are wagers that a specific number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) will be rolled before a 7. The odds and payouts vary depending on the number:
- 4 or 10 pays 9:5
- 5 or 9 pays 7:5
- 6 or 8 pays 7:6
The house edge for Place bets also varies:
- 4 or 10: 6.67%
- 5 or 9: 4%
- 6 or 8: 1.52%
Proposition bets
Proposition bets are one-roll bets placed in the center of the table. These bets are high-risk and high-reward, with the highest house edge. Examples include:
- Any Craps (2, 3, or 12): Pays 7:1, house edge ~11.11%
- Any Seven: Pays 4:1, house edge ~16.67%
- Yo (11): Pays 15:1, house edge ~11.11%
- Snake Eyes (2) or Boxcars (12): Pays 30:1, house edge ~13.89%
Each bet offers different levels of risk and reward, catering to various playing styles and strategies.
Strategies for winning at craps
Craps is a game of both chance and strategy, and understanding the right craps strategies can significantly enhance your chances of winning.
Pass line and come bets
One of the simplest and most effective strategies is to stick with the Pass Line and Come bets. These bets have a low house edge of around 1.41%, making them favorable for players. By focusing on these bets, you minimize the casino’s advantage and increase your likelihood of winning over time.
Taking the odds
Once you have placed a Pass Line or Come bet and a point is established, you can take the odds by placing an additional bet behind your original bet. This odds bet has no house edge, meaning it pays true odds. The combination of a Pass Line or Come bet with the odds bet is one of the best strategies in how to play craps.
The 3-point molly
The 3-Point Molly is a popular strategy that involves spreading out your bets to cover more numbers on the table. Here’s how it works:
- Place a Pass Line bet.
- Once a point is established, take the odds on the Pass Line bet.
- Make a Come bet. When the Come bet travels to a number, take the odds on this bet as well.
- Place another Come bet and take the odds on this third bet.
By covering three numbers plus the point, you increase your chances of hitting a winning number. This strategy requires a larger bankroll but can yield significant returns.
The iron cross
The Iron Cross strategy aims to cover all possible outcomes except for a seven. To implement this strategy:
- Place a Field bet.
- Place bets on the 5, 6, and 8.
This way, any roll other than a 7 will result in a win. While this strategy offers frequent small wins, it comes with a higher house edge and should be used with caution.
Hedging bets
Hedging involves placing bets that cover different outcomes to reduce potential losses. For example, you might combine a Pass Line bet with a Don’t Pass bet. While this guarantees a loss on one bet, it can minimize the overall risk. Hedging can be useful in volatile situations but may reduce your potential profits.
Tips for new players
If you’re a beginner looking to learn how to play craps, these practical tips will help you get started and enhance your gaming experience. Craps can be an exciting and rewarding game once you understand the basics.
Bankroll management
Effective bankroll management is crucial for new craps players. Set a budget for each session and stick to it. Avoid chasing losses and know when to walk away. Divide your bankroll into smaller portions for each bet to extend your playtime and reduce the risk of significant losses.
Understanding the table layout
Familiarize yourself with the craps table layout. Knowing where to place your bets and understanding the different sections of the table will help you make quicker and more informed decisions. The table is divided into areas for Pass Line bets, Don’t Pass bets, Come bets, and various Proposition Bets in the center.
Start with simple bets
As a new player, begin with simple bets like the Pass Line and Don’t Pass bets. These bets have a lower house edge and are easier to understand. The Pass Line bet wins if the come-out roll is a 7 or 11 and loses if it’s a 2, 3, or 12. The Don’t Pass bet is the opposite, winning on 2 or 3 and losing on 7 or 11.
Practice online
Take advantage of free online craps games to practice without risking real money. Practicing online helps you get comfortable with the game’s mechanics and develop your strategy. Look for reputable online casinos that offer demo versions of craps.
Observe and learn
If you’re playing in a land-based casino, spend some time observing other players. Watching experienced players can provide valuable insights into how to play game and help you understand the flow of the game.
The thrill and strategy of the craps game
Craps gambling is not just about luck; it involves strategic thinking and understanding the game’s intricacies. The excitement of the craps game comes from its fast-paced nature and the social interaction at the table. Whether you prefer the convenience and bonuses of online play or the vibrant atmosphere of a land-based casino, craps offers a thrilling experience for all players.
By mastering the basics and employing the right strategies, you can enhance your enjoyment and success in the game. If you’re new to craps, take advantage of the tips and practice online to build your confidence. The strategic depth and excitement of craps make it a must-try for any casino enthusiast.
Whether you’re playing online or at a casino, the craps game offers endless entertainment and opportunities to win.
