- Beyond the Dice Roll: 97% of Players Dont Know These Winning Secrets for the craps game.
- Understanding the Basics of Craps
- The Pass Line and Don’t Pass Bets
- Understanding Odds Bets
- Proposition Bets: High Risk, High Reward
- Craps Etiquette and Strategy
Beyond the Dice Roll: 97% of Players Dont Know These Winning Secrets for the craps game.
The world of casino games offers a thrilling array of possibilities, but few possess the energy and excitement of the craps game. Often intimidating to newcomers, craps is, at its core, a relatively simple game of chance with a rich history and a vibrant social atmosphere. It’s a game where fortunes can be won or lost on the roll of the dice, and where the camaraderie of players adds an extra layer of involvement. This guide will delve into the intricacies of craps, providing you with the knowledge to confidently navigate the table and increase your chances of success.
Beyond the surface level of rolling dice, lies a strategic depth often overlooked by casual observers. Mastering the various bets, understanding the probabilities, and learning the etiquette of the craps table are key to enjoying the game to its fullest potential. For many, it’s about the thrill of the roll, the anticipation, and the shared experience – a testament to why it remains a staple in casinos worldwide.
Understanding the Basics of Craps
The primary objective in craps is to predict the outcome of a pair of dice. A game begins with the “come out” roll, where the shooter attempts to establish a “point.” If the come-out roll is a 7 or 11, the pass line bettors win immediately. If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, they “seven out,” and the pass line bettors lose. Crucially, if the shooter establishes a point (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10), the game continues until that point is rolled again (resulting in a win for pass line bettors) or a 7 is rolled (resulting in a loss for pass line bettors).
Several different types of bets constitute the game, each with a unique payout and corresponding odds associated with it. Beyond the pass line bet, players can also wager on “don’t pass,” “come,” “don’t come,” “place” bets, and “proposition” bets. It’s important to understand that certain bets have a higher house edge than others, and shrewd players will generally focus on bets with more favorable probabilities.
| Pass Line | Betting the shooter will win | 1.41% | 1:1 |
| Don’t Pass | Betting the shooter will lose | 1.36% | 1:1 |
| Come | Similar to pass line, but placed after a point is established | 1.41% | 1:1 |
| Place 6 or 8 | Betting a 6 or 8 will be rolled before a 7 | 1.52% | 7:6 |
The Pass Line and Don’t Pass Bets
The pass line bet is commonly considered the foundational bet in craps. It’s a simple wager that the shooter will win, and it’s often the first bet new players make. Players place their chips on the pass line before the come-out roll and win if a 7 or 11 is rolled, and lose on a 2, 3 or 12. This bet offers a relatively low house edge, making it an attractive option for more conservative players. However, the excitement comes from following the shooter to try and ‘make their point’.
The don’t pass bet is the opposite of the pass line. Betters wager that the shooter will lose and collect returns when 2 or 3 are rolled. This bet provides slightly better odds for the player, but it’s often frowned upon by other players at the table because it effectively roots against the shooter, against the communal spirit of the game. An understanding of etiquette suggests choosing other bets instead if you wish to win.
Understanding Odds Bets
Once a point is established, players have the opportunity to take ‘odds’ on their pass line or come bets. This is a bet placed alongside your original bet, wagering that the point will be rolled before a 7. Odds bets are unique in that they have absolutely no house edge, meaning the payout is based purely on the mathematical probability of the point being rolled. The amount of odds you can take is often limited by the casino, often one, two, three, or even five times your original bet. A skilled player will always maximize their odds bet, as this is where the true advantage in craps lies. This is why learning the probability of rolling different numbers is crucial.
The returns on an odds bet vary depending on the point established. For instance, placing odds on a point of 6 or 8 yields a payout of 6:5, while odds on a point of 4 or 10 yield a payout of 2:1. A smart craps player will adjust their bets based on the established point, maximizing their potential returns and minimizing the house edge. This is a huge advantage that separates an amateur from a veteran.
Proposition Bets: High Risk, High Reward
Proposition bets, often located in the center of the craps layout, offer the potential for large payouts but come with significantly higher house edges. These are one-roll bets, meaning they are resolved on the very next roll of the dice. Examples include betting on specific doubles (e.g., snake eyes – 1 and 1) or a specific total. While the allure of a quick win is tempting, the mathematical disadvantage of proposition bets makes them a risky venture. It is not because of skill, but because of the probability that these bets should be avoided.
Consider the “hardway” bets, where you’re wagering that a number will be rolled as a pair before being rolled in any other way. For example, betting “hardway 6” means you’re betting that a 3 and 3 will be rolled before a 1 and 5, 2 and 4, or a 6. Although such bets present substantial payouts, the house edge is considerably higher, therefore making for a relatively poor betting option. Smart craps players typically steer clear of proposition bets altogether.
- Always bet on the pass line and take the maximum odds.
- Avoid proposition bets due to the high house edge.
- Understand the different types of bets and their corresponding payouts.
- Learn the proper etiquette of the craps table.
- Manage your bankroll wisely and set a budget.
Craps Etiquette and Strategy
Craps is often considered a social game, and adhering to proper etiquette is essential for maintaining a positive atmosphere. Avoid touching the dice with both hands, never say “seven” at the table (as it’s believed to jinx the shooter), and always be respectful of other players and the casino staff. Tipping the dealers is also customary, especially when experiencing winning streaks.
Developing a solid craps strategy involves understanding the mathematical probabilities of each bet and managing your bankroll effectively. A common approach is to stick to the pass line with maximum odds, while cautiously exploring other bets with lower house edges. It’s also vital to set a budget before you start playing and to avoid chasing your losses. Learning from experienced players and utilizing online resources can further enhance your skills.
- Master the basic bets: Pass line, Don’t Pass, Come, and Don’t Come.
- Take full odds on all your pass line and come bets.
- Avoid proposition bets with a high house edge.
- Manage your bankroll responsibly.
- Learn and practice proper craps etiquette.
| Conservative | Focus on pass line with odds and come bets. | Low | Moderate |
| Moderate | Include place bets on 6 and 8. | Medium | Good |
| Aggressive | Utilize multiple bets and larger wager sizes (for experienced players only). | High | High |
Ultimately, the craps game offers a unique blend of strategy, chance, and social interaction. By understanding the fundamentals, employing a smart strategy, and respecting the game’s etiquette, you can maximize your enjoyment and potentially walk away a winner.