Introduction
Craps is one of the most popular and exciting games you can play at a casino. However, it can be intimidating for those who have never played before. In this article, we will guide you through the basics of playing craps and provide you with the knowledge and confidence to hit the tables with ease.
Walkthrough Guide
The objective of craps is to correctly predict the outcome of the roll of the dice. The first roll of a round is called the come-out roll, where the following outcomes can occur:
- 7 or 11 – Pass line bets win and don’t pass bets lose
- 2, 3, or 12 – Pass line bets lose and don’t pass bets win
- 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 – Establishes the point number, and the round continues
Once the point number has been established, players can bet on various outcomes, including:
- Pass Line/Come Bets – Betting that the point number will be rolled again before a 7
- Don’t Pass/Don’t Come Bets – Betting that a 7 will be rolled before the point number
- Odds Bets – Betting that the point number will be rolled before a 7, with higher payouts if the player wins the bet
- Place Bets – Betting that a specific number will be rolled before a 7, with varying payouts depending on the number chosen
To play craps:
- Buy chips from the dealer before starting to play.
- Place your bet on the pass line or don’t pass line, according to your preference.
- Roll the dice and wait for the outcome of the come-out roll.
- If the point number is established, place additional bets on the table.
- Sit back and enjoy the excitement of the game!
Game Strategies
Having a strategy in craps can help you to maximize your winnings and minimize your losses. Some of the most popular strategies include the Iron Cross, which involves placing bets on multiple numbers to cover all eventualities, and the 3-Point Molly, where players place bets on the pass line, come bets, and odds bets to increase their chances of winning. It’s important to note that no strategy is foolproof and that a certain degree of luck is always involved in playing craps.
Glossary of Craps Terminology
There are many words and phrases unique to craps that can be confusing for newcomers. Here are some of the most common:
- Shooter – The player who is rolling the dice.
- Boxman – The casino employee who is in charge of the chips and supervises the game.
- Hardway Bets – Bets that a specific combination of numbers will be rolled before a 7, for example, a hard 8 is rolled as two 4s.
Craps Etiquette
Like any game, craps has unwritten rules and courtesies that all players should follow. Here are some of the most important:
- Respect the shooter – Once the shooter has the dice, don’t touch them or try to interfere with their roll.
- Handle the dice with care – Don’t throw the dice too hard or too high, and always ensure they hit the back wall of the table.
- Tipping the dealers- It is customary to tip the dealers occasionally during the game.
Understanding Odds
The odds in craps determine the payouts and the player’s chances of winning. The house edge varies depending on the bet the player chooses to play, with some bets having a lower house edge than others. It’s important to understand the various odds in craps to make informed betting decisions.
Live Casino vs. Online
Playing craps in a live casino can be an exhilarating experience with the energy and ambiance of the casino floor. However, online craps can offer a more relaxed and convenient option, with the ability to play from anywhere at any time. Both have their benefits, and players can choose the option that best suits their preferences and lifestyle.
Conclusion
Now that you have a better understanding of the game and its rules, it’s time to hit the craps table and try your luck! Remember to always play responsibly and have fun. We hope this guide has helped you to feel more confident in playing craps at a casino.