Craps is a popular dice game typically played in casinos, but it can also be enjoyed in informal settings. It’s known for its fast pace and variety of betting options. Here’s a basic guide on how to play Craps:
Equipment: Traditionally, craps would need the following equipment
A pair of six-sided dice
A Craps table, which displays the various betting options.
The Basic Rules
The Come-Out Roll: The game starts with what’s known as the “come-out roll.” One player, the “shooter,” throws the dice. Players bet on the outcome of this roll.
Pass Line Bet: Before the come-out roll, players make a “Pass Line” bet. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, this bet wins. If they roll a 2, 3, or 12 (known as “craps”), the bet loses. Any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) establishes the “point.”
Establishing the Point: Once a point is set, the shooter continues to roll the dice. The goal now is to roll the point number again before rolling a 7.
Winning and Losing: If the shooter rolls the point number before a 7, the Pass Line bet wins. If a 7 comes up first, the Pass Line bet loses.
Additional Bets
Don’t Pass Line Bet: This is the opposite of the Pass Line bet. It wins if the come-out roll is 2 or 3, ties on 12, and loses on 7 or 11. If a point is established, this bet wins if a 7 is rolled before the point number.
Come and Don’t Come Bets: These are similar to Pass and Don’t Pass bets but can be made on rolls other than the come-out roll.
Odds Bet: After a point is established, players can make an additional bet behind their Pass Line bet. This bet is won or lost under the same conditions as the Pass Line bet but pays out at true odds.
Field Bet: A one-roll bet that wins if the next roll is a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12.
Proposition Bets: These are high-risk bets placed on the outcome of the next roll being a specific number.
Playing the Game
Players place their bets.
The shooter rolls the come-out roll.
Bets are settled based on the outcome of the roll.
If a point is established, the shooter continues to roll until they either roll the point again (winning Pass Line bets) or roll a 7 (losing Pass Line bets).
The dice pass to the next player if the shooter rolls a 7.
Tips for Beginners
Start with Basic Bets: If you’re new to Craps, start with the Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line bets. They offer the best odds and are easy to understand.
Learn the Table Layout: Familiarize yourself with the Craps table layout and the various betting options available.
Observe Game Etiquette: Handle the dice with one hand, and avoid throwing them too hard.
Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget for your gaming session and stick to it.
Learn Through Experience: Craps can be complex, so the best way to learn is by playing and observing.
Remember, Craps is a game of chance, and there is no strategy that can guarantee wins. The key to enjoying Craps is to understand the rules, play responsibly, and have fun with the excitement it offers.