How to Play Craps: Understanding the Rules and Bets

Craps is one of the most exciting and dynamic casino games, offering a unique combination of strategy, chance, and a lively social atmosphere. With a variety of betting options and an energetic pace, it’s a game that can seem intimidating to newcomers. 

Are you unsure about how to play craps at online casinos? No worries, Gew Canada provides detailed insights on various games that are helpful for players to improve their winning chances. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the rules, bets, and strategies to help you master craps and enjoy the experience.

The Basics of Craps

Craps is played with two six-sided dice on a specialized table. The game’s objective is to predict the outcome of the dice rolls. Each round is initiated by one player, called the “shooter,” who rolls the dice while others at the table place bets. The game proceeds in two phases: the “Come-Out Roll” and the “Point.”

The Come-Out Roll

• The shooter begins by rolling the dice for the come-out roll.
• Winning Outcomes: A roll of 7 or 11 (known as a “Natural”) wins for Pass Line bets.
• Losing Outcomes: A roll of 2, 3, or 12 (“Craps”) results in a loss for Pass Line bets but may win or push for Don’t Pass bets.
• Establishing the Point: If the shooter rolls a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes the “Point,” and the game enters the next phase.

The Point Phase

• Once the Point is established, the shooter continues rolling the dice.
• The goal is to roll the Point number again before rolling a 7.
• Rolling the Point results in a win for Pass Line bets, while rolling a 7 (“Seven-Out”) results in a loss.

Craps Table Layout

The craps table is designed to accommodate various types of bets. Here’s a quick overview of the key sections:

• Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line: Found on the edges of the table, these are the most popular betting areas.
• Come and Don’t Come: Located near the center, these bets function similarly to Pass and Don’t Pass but are placed after the Point is established.
• Place Bets: Specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) that you wager will be rolled before a 7.
• Field Bets: One-roll bets covering specific outcomes like 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12.
• Proposition Bets: High-risk, high-reward bets in the center of the table with specific conditions.

Types of Bets in Craps

Craps offers a wide range of betting options to suit different strategies and risk preferences. Here are the main types:

Pass Line Bet

• How It Works: Place this bet before the come-out roll.
• Win Conditions: Rolling a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, or rolling the Point before a 7 during the Point phase.
• Lose Conditions: Rolling a 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll, or rolling a 7 after the Point is established.

Don’t Pass Line Bet

• How It Works: The opposite of the Pass Line bet.
• Win Conditions: Rolling a 2 or 3 on the come-out roll, or a 7 before the Point is rolled.
• Push Condition: Rolling a 12 on the come-out roll results in a tie.

Come Bet

• How It Works: Similar to Pass Line but placed after the come-out roll.
• Win Conditions: Rolling a 7 or 11 on the next roll, or rolling the Point before a 7.

Don’t Come Bet

• How It Works: Similar to Don’t Pass but placed after the come-out roll.
• Win Conditions: Rolling a 2 or 3 on the next roll, or rolling a 7 before the Point.

Place Bets

• How It Works: Bet on a specific number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) being rolled before a 7.
• Payouts: Vary by number:
  • 4 or 10: 9:5
  • 5 or 9: 7:5
  • 6 or 8: 7:6

Field Bets

• How It Works: A one-roll bet on 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12.
• Payouts: Typically 1:1, but 2 and 12 often pay double or triple.

Proposition Bets

• How It Works: High-risk bets placed in the center of the table.
• Examples:
  • Snake Eyes (rolling a 2) or Boxcars (rolling a 12).
  • Any 7 (betting that the next roll will be a 7).
• Payouts: High but with a significant house edge.

Strategies for Playing Craps

Low-House Edge Bets: Stick to Pass Line, Don’t Pass, Come, and Don’t Come bets as they offer the lowest house edge.

Utilize Free Odds Bets: After a Point is established, you can place a “Free Odds” bet behind your Pass Line or Come bets. These bets pay true odds and have no house edge.

Avoid High-Risk Bets: Proposition bets and Big 6/8 bets have a higher house edge and should be avoided, especially by beginners.

Bankroll Management: Set a budget before playing and stick to it. Use a consistent betting strategy to manage your funds effectively.

Craps Etiquette

Craps is a social game with established norms to ensure everyone enjoys the experience:

• Handling the Dice: Use only one hand to throw the dice, and ensure they hit the back wall.
• Respecting Dealers and Players: Avoid interrupting the flow of the game or crowding the table.
• Tipping: Show appreciation to the dealers by tipping periodically.

Online Craps: A Convenient Alternative

For those who prefer playing from home, online craps offers a practical option. Most online casinos feature virtual craps games or live dealer options, replicating the experience of a physical casino. Also, explore online casino odds to improve your winning chances.

• Practice Mode: Many platforms offer free versions of craps, allowing you to learn the rules without financial risk.
• Bonuses: Look for welcome bonuses or promotions that can enhance your bankroll.

Craps is an exhilarating game that combines chance, strategy, and social interaction. By understanding the rules, betting options, and strategies outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to approach the craps table confidently. Whether playing in a bustling casino or online, remember to gamble responsibly and enjoy the thrill of the game!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the basic rules of craps for beginners?

Basic Rules of Craps for Beginners:

Objective: Bet on the outcome of the roll of two dice.

Pass Line Bet: A win on 7 or 11; lose on 2, 3, or 12 (Come-Out Roll).

Point: If 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 is rolled, it becomes the “point.”

Winning Point: Roll the point number before a 7 to win.

Variety of Bets: Explore different betting options for more fun.

2. What is the 3 4 5 rule in craps?

The 3-4-5 Rule in Craps is a guideline for maximum odds bets, simplifying the payout structure. It determines the multiples of the Pass or Come bet you can wager on odds, based on the point number:

1. Point 4 or 10: Maximum odds bet is 3 times the base bet.
2. Point 5 or 9: Maximum odds bet is 4 times the base bet.
3. Point 6 or 8: Maximum odds bet is 5 times the base bet.

This rule ensures consistent maximum payouts of 7 times the base bet, making it easy to calculate.

3. Is craps easy to learn?

Yes, craps is easy to learn once you understand the basics:

• Focus on simple bets like the Pass Line Bet to start.
• The gameplay revolves around the Come-Out Roll and establishing a point.
• It may seem complex due to various betting options, but sticking to beginner-friendly strategies simplifies it.

With practice, you’ll grasp the flow and enjoy the fast-paced excitement.

4. Is there a winning craps strategy?

While there’s no guaranteed winning strategy in craps due to its reliance on chance, you can adopt smart approaches to improve your odds. Focus on low-house-edge bets like the Pass Line, Don’t Pass, and Come bets, and take full advantage of odds bets, as they have no house edge. Avoid high-risk proposition bets like “hard ways” or “any seven,” which have a higher house edge. 

A disciplined bankroll management strategy is crucial—set limits and stick to them. Understanding the game’s rules and staying consistent with safer bets increases your chances of extended play and potential success.