Introduction
As one of the most iconic games on the casino floor, craps has firmly established itself as an electrifying form of entertainment cherished by players around the world. This blog will guide you through the ins and outs of playing craps, offering detailed explanations of the rules alongside helpful tips and techniques to master the game.
What Is Craps Game
Craps is a popular dice game played in casinos, and it is also widely available in online versions. The roots of Crap game trace back to the ancient Roman Empire, where soldiers would pass the time by rolling pig knuckles onto their shields, eventually evolving into the game we know today. The name ‘craps’ is believed to have originated from the French word ‘crapaud’, meaning ‘toad’, which was a reference to the way players crouched over the game in its early days.
Objective
The goal in craps is to correctly predict the outcome of the roll or series of rolls of two dice.
How to Play Craps Game Online
Players:
Multiple players can participate in an online craps game simultaneously.
Come-Out Roll:
The game begins with a come-out roll. A player, the shooter, rolls the dice for the first time in a round. If the total is 7 or 11, the shooter wins and gets to roll again. If the total is 2, 3, or 12, the shooter loses, which is called ‘crapping out’ or ‘crapping’.
Establishing the Point:
If the come-out roll results in a total other than 2, 3, 7, 11, or 12, that number becomes the ‘point’. The shooter continues to roll until either the point or a 7 is rolled.
Betting:
Players at the table can place various bets on different outcomes before each roll of the dice. Common bets include:
- Pass Line Bet: A bet that the shooter will win. If the come-out roll is a 7 or 11, the ‘pass line bets’ win. If it’s 2, 3, or 12, they lose
- Don’t Pass Bet: The opposite of a pass line bet. Wins on a come-out roll of 2 or 3 and loses on 7 or 11
- Come Bet: Similar to a pass line bet but placed after the come-out roll
- Don’t Come Bet: Similar to a don’t pass bet, placed after the come-out roll
Winning and Losing:
The ‘Pass line bets’ win if the point is rolled before a 7. The ‘Don’t pass bets’ win if a 7 is rolled before the point.
Variations of Craps Game
Here are a few notable variations of the game available online:
High Point Craps
This variation aims to hit a high point number. After the come-out roll, if a 2 or 3 is rolled, it does not affect the game. Rolling an 11 or 12 after the point is established can offer better payouts.
Simplified Craps
In this version, the game is simplified, usually with fewer betting options. It’s often preferred by beginners as it’s easier to grasp.
Crapless Craps
In this variant, the come-out roll doesn’t automatically win with a 7 or 11, nor does it lose with a 2, 3, or 12. Instead, any number rolled becomes a point, but the 7 doesn’t immediately lose.
Die Rich Craps
Players have more control over their bets in this version. They are allowed to remove or reduce their bets after the come-out roll or during subsequent rolls.
Bank Craps
This version is played in casinos and follows the typical rules of craps, including a banker who covers all the bets. The house advantage is usually slightly different in this version.
Open Craps
This is a variation often played informally among friends. Players take turns being the shooter, and it is more relaxed in terms of rules and betting structure.
Tips & Tricks
Understand the Game
Learn the rules, different bets, and their odds. Craps can be intimidating at first, but once you understand the basics, it becomes easier.
Start with Pass Line and Come Bets
These are some of the best bets with favorable odds for beginners. They have a low house edge, making them a good starting point.
Use Free Play or Demos
Many online platforms offer free play or demo modes for the players. You can use these to practice and get comfortable with the game before wagering real money.
Manage Your Bankroll
Set a budget and stick to it. Craps can be fast-paced, so it is crucial to manage your funds to avoid overspending.
Avoid Risky Proposition Bets
Proposition bets have high house edges, so they are riskier. You need to stick with bets like the Pass Line, Don’t Pass Line, Come, and Don’t Come.
Take Advantage of Bonuses
Online casinos often offer bonuses. You can utilize these to extend your playtime and potentially increase your winnings.
Learn about Odds Bets
Once you are comfortable with basic bets, you can consider adding Odds bets to your strategy. They have no house edge, which makes them a great addition to certain bets like Pass Line or Come bets.
Stay Calm and Focused
Craps can be an exciting game with a lot happening on the table. You should stay focused on your strategy and avoid getting caught up in the excitement.
Practice Dice Control (if possible)
Some players believe in controlling the dice outcome by how they are thrown. This is called dice control or dice setting. It is controversial, but some players find it useful. You can practice this technique if it interests you.
Know When to Stop
If you are on a winning streak, it is easy to get carried away. It is recommended to set a target for winnings and a limit for losses, and stick to them.
What Online Craps Game Offers?
Mobile Compatibility
Many online platforms allow players to enjoy craps on smartphones or tablets.
Bonus Offers and Promotions
Online casinos often provide bonuses and promotions, including welcome bonuses, reload bonuses, or free bets for craps games.
Multiple Betting Options
Online craps typically offer a wide range of betting options beyond the basic bets, including additional prop bets, side bets, and complex betting strategies for experienced players.
Frequently Asked Question
How do you play the game craps?
Craps involves players betting on the outcome of the roll or a series of rolls of a pair of dice. Players take turns being the shooter and can place various bets on different parts of the craps table. The game progresses through different phases, and winning bets are paid out according to the outcome of the dice roll.
Is craps pure luck?
Craps is primarily a game of chance. The outcome of the dice roll is random, determined by probability and the laws of physics. However, players can employ certain strategies, such as managing their bets, choosing low house edge bets, or utilizing odds bets to improve their odds of winning.
Is craps a skill game?
While luck plays a significant role in craps due to the random nature of the dice roll, some elements involve skill. Players can employ strategies to manage their bets, make informed decisions on where to place bets, and choose when to bet or pass, which can influence their overall success in the game.
Is 7 Good in Craps?
The number 7 has a varied impact in the craps game. During the come-out roll, it can result in a win or loss depending on the specific outcome. Once a point is established, rolling a 7 prematurely leads to certain bets winning or losing, depending on the bet type and timing.
Conclusion
Playing craps online can be an exciting experience, offering the same thrills as the traditional game found in casinos. Understanding the rules, employing strategies, and managing your bets wisely can enhance your enjoyment and potentially improve your odds of winning.
