Understanding Craps: Dice Game Rules and Betting
Craps is a dice game where players bet on the outcomes of rolls made by a designated shooter. The game revolves around two six-sided dice, with players wagering on whether specific number combinations will appear. Craps is popular in both land-based and live online casinos, offering fast-paced action with multiple betting options that appeal to both beginners and experienced players.
How Craps Works: Basic Game Flow
Craps begins with a come-out roll, where the shooter throws two dice to establish the point. If the total is 7 or 11, pass line bettors win immediately (called a natural). A roll of 2, 3, or 12 results in a loss for pass line bets (called craps out). Any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) becomes the point, and the game continues until either the point number rolls again (pass line wins) or a 7 appears (pass line loses). This cycle repeats with each new shooter.
Primary Betting Options in Craps
The pass line is the most fundamental bet, where you wager that the shooter will win. The don’t pass bet is the opposite, betting against the shooter. Come and don’t come bets work similarly but are placed after the point is established. Field bets cover multiple numbers (2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 12) with a single wager. Proposition bets in the centre of the table offer higher payouts for specific outcomes like rolling doubles or specific totals, though they carry higher house edges.
Odds and Payouts
Pass line and don’t pass bets typically pay 1:1. Come and don’t come follow the same structure. Field bets vary by casino but commonly pay 1:1 for most numbers and 2:1 for 2 or 12. Understanding payout structures helps evaluate which bets offer the best value for your bankroll.
| Bet Type | House Edge | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Pass Line / Don't Pass | 1.4% | Excellent foundation bet |
| Come / Don't Come | 1.4% | Good for extended play |
| Field Bet | 2.7-5.6% | Moderate risk |
| Proposition Bets | 11-17% | Avoid for value |
