The Basics of Craps Rules
Learning how to play craps starts with understanding the basic flow of the game. It’s a game of chance centered on the outcome of a roll of two dice. One player, known as the 'shooter', throws the dice, and the other players bet on the result.
Each round begins with a come-out roll. Before this roll, the shooter must place a bet on either the 'Pass Line' or the 'Don’t Pass Line'.
The entire betting process revolves around what combination of dice will be rolled.
Here’s what happens on the come-out roll:
- Natural (7 or 11): Pass Line bets win, and the round ends.
- Craps (2, 3, or 12): Pass Line bets lose. Don't Pass bets win on a 2 or 3, and push (tie) on a 12. The round ends.
- Point (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10): The number rolled becomes the 'point'. The game moves to the next stage.
If a point is established, the shooter continues to roll the dice. The goal is to roll the point number again before rolling a 7. If the point is rolled, Pass Line bets win. If a 7 is rolled ('seven-out'), Pass Line bets lose, and the round ends.
Understanding Craps Bets: From Pass Line to Props
The reason craps seems complex is the sheer number of betting options. However, you only need to know a few key craps bets to get started. Let's break them down.
The Pass Line Bet
This is the most fundamental bet in craps. You're betting with the shooter. You win if the come-out roll is a 7 or 11 and lose if it's a 2, 3, or 12. If a point is established, you win if the point is rolled again before a 7.
The Don’t Pass Line Bet
This is the opposite of the Pass Line bet. You're betting against the shooter. You win if the come-out roll is a 2 or 3 and lose on a 7 or 11. A 12 is a push. If a point is established, you win if a 7 is rolled before the point.
The Come Bet
This bet works just like a Pass Line bet, but you can make it at any time after a point has been established. The next roll of the dice acts as your personal come-out roll for this bet.
The Don’t Come Bet
As you might guess, this is the opposite of the Come bet and works like the Don't Pass Line bet. It can be made any time after the point is established.
Odds Bets
Once a point is established, you can place an 'odds bet' behind your original Pass/Don't Pass or Come/Don't Come bet. This is a side bet with no house edge, making it the best bet in the casino. Payouts are based on the true odds of the number being rolled.
Other Popular Bets
- Hardways: A bet that a number (4, 6, 8, or 10) will be rolled as a pair (e.g., two 3s for a hard 6) before a 7 or an 'easy' version of the number is rolled.
- Field Bet: A one-roll bet that the next roll will be a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12.
- Proposition Bets: High-payout, high-risk one-roll bets on specific numbers like Any 7, Aces (2), or Boxcar (12).
Craps Odds and Payouts Explained
Understanding the craps odds and payouts for different bets is crucial for smart play. While craps is a game of luck, knowing which bets offer better value can significantly impact your results. Bets with a lower house edge are generally better for the player in the long run.
This table details the house edge and payout for common craps bets:
| Types of Craps Bet | House Edge | Payout |
|---|---|---|
| Taking Odds on Pass/Come 4 or 10 | 0% | 2 to 1 |
| Taking Odds on Pass/Come 5 or 9 | 0% | 3 to 2 |
| Taking Odds on Pass/Come 6 or 8 | 0% | 6 to 5 |
| Pass Line / Come | 1.41% | 1 to 1 |
| Don't Pass / Don't Come | 1.36% | 1 to 1 |
| Place 6 or 8 | 1.52% | 7 to 6 |
| Place 5 or 9 | 4.00% | 7 to 5 |
| Place 4 or 10 | 6.67% | 9 to 5 |
| Field Bet | 5.56% | Varies (1:1, 2:1) |
| Hardways 6 or 8 | 9.09% | 9 to 1 |
| Hardways 4 or 10 | 11.11% | 7 to 1 |
| Any 7 | 16.67% | 4 to 1 |
Top 5 Craps Tips for Beginners
Getting started with craps is easier with a few pointers. Follow these tips to improve your experience at the table.
- Learn the Basic Bets First: Don't try to learn every bet at once. Stick with the Pass Line bet and taking odds. They are simple to understand and have a low house edge.
- Understand the House Edge: As shown in the table, some bets are much better than others. Avoid high-house-edge proposition bets until you are more experienced.
- Manage Your Bankroll: Craps is a fast game. Set a budget before you play and stick to it. Never chase your losses.
- Observe the Table: Before jumping in, watch a few rounds to understand the flow and etiquette. Don't be afraid to ask the dealer questions.
- Know When to Walk Away: Quit while you're ahead. If you've had a good run, cash out and enjoy your winnings. This is the key to responsible gambling.
Craps is an incredibly social and exciting game. By understanding the basic rules and sticking to smart bets, you'll be well on your way to enjoying one of the best experiences a casino has to offer. Remember to have fun and play responsibly.
