How to Play Craps

How to Play Craps

Craps is a thrilling casino game in Las Vegas that’s known for its fast pace and lively atmosphere. With its dynamic gameplay and variety of betting options, it can seem intimidating at first, but once you understand the basics of craps, it becomes an exciting game of strategy and chance. Our craps guide will help you get started and master the game of craps.

The Basics of Craps

Craps is played with two dice, and the objective is to predict the outcome of the dice rolls. The game is divided into rounds, with players placing bets on the results of the dice rolls. The player who rolls the dice is known as the "shooter," and the game is played on a specialized craps table with various betting areas.

Setting Up the Game

  • Understand the Table Layout: The craps table has different sections for various bets. The main areas include the Pass Line, Don’t Pass Line, Come, Don’t Come, and a variety of place bets. Familiarize yourself with these sections as they represent different types of bets.
  • Place Your Bets: Before the shooter rolls the dice, players place their bets on the table. You can bet on the Pass Line, Don’t Pass Line, Come, Don’t Come, or various other bets. Each bet has its own rules and payouts.
  • The Shooter Rolls the Dice: The game begins with the shooter rolling the dice. The first roll of the game is called the "come-out roll," and its outcome determines the next phase of the game.

The Phases of Craps

Come-Out Roll

  • Pass Line Bet: If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, Pass Line bets win. If they roll a 2, 3, or 12, Pass Line bets lose. Any other number rolled becomes the "point."
  • Don’t Pass Line Bet: If the shooter rolls a 2 or 3, Don’t Pass Line bets win. A roll of 7 or 11 means Don’t Pass Line bets lose. A roll of 12 results in a push (a tie), and any other number rolled becomes the point.

Point Phase

If a point number is established (i.e., the shooter rolls a number other than 2, 3, 7, 11, or 12), the shooter continues rolling until they roll the point number again (in which case Pass Line bets win) or a 7 (in which case Pass Line bets lose and Don’t Pass Line bets win).

Come and Don’t Come Bets

  • Come Bets: After the point is established, players can make Come bets. The next roll after a Come bet is placed becomes a mini-come-out roll for that bet. A 7 or 11 on this roll means the Come bet wins, while a 2, 3, or 12 means it loses. Any other number rolled becomes the Come point, and the shooter must roll that number again before rolling a 7 for the Come bet to win.
  • Don’t Come Bets: Similar to the Don’t Pass Line bet, but placed after the come-out roll. If the next roll is a 2 or 3, the Don’t Come bet wins. A roll of 7 or 11 means the bet loses, and a roll of 12 results in a push. If a point number is established, the shooter must roll a 7 before rolling the point number for the Don’t Come bet to win.

Types of Bets

Craps offers a variety of betting options beyond the basic Pass Line, Don’t Pass Line, Come, and Don’t Come bets. Here are some common bets:

  • Place Bets: You can place bets on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10). If the number you bet on is rolled before a 7, you win. If a 7 is rolled first, you lose.
  • Field Bets: A bet on the next roll being a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12. This bet pays out if any of these numbers come up and loses if a 5, 6, 7, or 8 is rolled.
  • Proposition Bets: These are one-roll bets placed in the center of the table. Examples include betting on specific combinations of dice (e.g., “Any 7” or “Hardways” where you bet that the dice will show a pair of the same number).
  • Odds Bets: After a point is established, you can make an additional bet (odds bet) behind your Pass Line or Come bet. This bet has no house edge and pays out at true odds.

Tips for Playing Craps

  • Start with the Basics: Begin by placing Pass Line or Don’t Pass Line bets to get a feel for the game. These bets are simpler and have better odds compared to more complex wagers.
  • Understand the Odds: Familiarize yourself with the odds and payouts of various bets. Odds bets, in particular, have no house edge and offer the best returns.
  • Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget for your gaming session and stick to it. Craps can be fast-paced, so it’s important to manage your money wisely.
  • Know When to Walk Away: Whether you’re winning or losing, it’s important to know when to stop playing. Gambling should be fun and not lead to excessive losses.
  • Practice: Many online casinos and gaming apps offer free craps games. Practice online to get comfortable with the rules and strategies before playing in a casino.

The Social Aspect of Craps

Craps is often described as one of the most social casino games. The excitement of the dice rolls, the collective cheers of the players, and the camaraderie at the table create a lively atmosphere. Engaging with fellow players and enjoying the energy of the game can make your craps experience even more enjoyable.

Craps is a dynamic and engaging game at Las Vegas casinos that combines luck and strategy. By understanding the basic rules, different phases of the game, and various betting options, you can navigate the craps table with confidence. Remember to start with simple bets, manage your bankroll, and enjoy the social atmosphere of the game. With practice and a bit of luck, you’ll be rolling the dice like a pro in no time.