Craps Game Rules can seem daunting at first, but polarservicecenter.net is here to simplify them for you. Understanding these rules is essential for enjoying this exciting casino game, and knowing the ins and outs can even help you improve your chances of winning. Discover the essential craps rules, betting options, and strategies with this guide.
1. Understanding the Basic Craps Game Rules
The most important part of the craps game rules to understand is the sequence of play.
Craps is a dice game played on a specialized table. The game begins with a “come-out roll,” the first roll of the dice in a betting round. The shooter, the person rolling the dice, aims for a natural (7 or 11) to win or avoids craps (2, 3, or 12) to not lose immediately. According to a study by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, understanding these initial outcomes significantly impacts a player’s strategy.
1.1 The Come-Out Roll: Setting the Stage
The come-out roll determines the next phase of the game.
- Winning Outcomes: A roll of 7 or 11 results in a win for those who bet on the “pass line.”
- Losing Outcomes: A roll of 2, 3, or 12 results in a loss for those who bet on the “pass line.”
- Establishing the Point: If the shooter rolls a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes the “point.” The game then moves into the point phase, where the shooter tries to roll the point number again before rolling a 7.
1.2 The Point Phase: Continuing the Game
The point phase is when the shooter tries to match the point number before rolling a 7.
- Making the Point: If the shooter rolls the point number again before rolling a 7, the pass line bet wins.
- Seven Out: If the shooter rolls a 7 before rolling the point number, it’s called a “seven out,” and the pass line bet loses. The dice then pass to the next shooter.
2. Essential Craps Bets Explained
Understanding the different types of craps bets is crucial for any player.
2.1 Pass Line Bet: The Foundation
The pass line bet is the most fundamental bet in craps.
- How it Works: This bet is placed before the come-out roll. 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 (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10), you win if that point is rolled again before a 7.
- Payout: The payout for a pass line bet is even money (1 to 1).
2.2 Don’t Pass Line Bet: Betting Against the Shooter
The don’t pass line bet is the opposite of the pass line bet.
- How it Works: This bet is placed before the come-out roll. You win if the come-out roll is a 2 or 3 and lose if it’s a 7 or 11. A roll of 12 is typically a push (neither win nor lose). If a point is established, you win if a 7 is rolled before the point number.
- Payout: The payout for a don’t pass line bet is even money (1 to 1).
2.3 Come Bet: Betting After the Point
The come bet is similar to the pass line bet but is made after a point has been established.
- How it Works: After a point is set, you can place a come bet. The next roll becomes the “come-out roll” for this bet. If that roll is a 7 or 11, you win. If it’s a 2, 3, or 12, you lose. If any other number is rolled, that becomes the “come point.” You win if the come point is rolled again before a 7.
- Payout: The payout for a come bet is even money (1 to 1).
2.4 Don’t Come Bet: Betting Against the Come
The don’t come bet is the opposite of the come bet.
- How it Works: Placed after a point has been established, you win if the next roll is a 2 or 3 and lose if it’s a 7 or 11. A roll of 12 is typically a push. If any other number is rolled, that becomes the “don’t come point.” You win if a 7 is rolled before the don’t come point.
- Payout: The payout for a don’t come bet is even money (1 to 1).
3. Taking the Odds: Maximizing Your Winnings
Taking the odds is an additional bet that can increase your payout.
3.1 How to Take the Odds on Pass Line Bets
After a point is established on the come-out roll, you can take the odds on your pass line bet.
- How it Works: This is a side bet that the point will be rolled before a 7. The payout depends on the point number.
- Payouts:
- 2 to 1 on points of 4 and 10
- 3 to 2 on points of 5 and 9
- 6 to 5 on points of 6 and 8
3.2 How to Lay the Odds on Don’t Pass Line Bets
When betting the don’t pass line, you lay the odds, meaning you bet that a 7 will be rolled before the point.
- How it Works: This bet can be made after a point has been established. The payout depends on the point number.
- Payouts:
- 1 to 2 on points of 4 and 10
- 2 to 3 on points of 5 and 9
- 5 to 6 on points of 6 and 8
3.3 Taking the Odds on Come Bets
Similar to the pass line, you can take the odds on come bets after a come point has been established.
- How it Works: This is a side bet that the come point will be rolled before a 7. The payout depends on the come point number.
- Payouts:
- 2 to 1 on points of 4 and 10
- 3 to 2 on points of 5 and 9
- 6 to 5 on points of 6 and 8
3.4 Laying the Odds on Don’t Come Bets
When betting the don’t come line, you lay the odds, betting that a 7 will be rolled before the come point.
- How it Works: This bet can be made after a come point has been established. The payout depends on the come point number.
- Payouts:
- 1 to 2 on points of 4 and 10
- 2 to 3 on points of 5 and 9
- 5 to 6 on points of 6 and 8
4. Place Bets: Targeting Specific Numbers
Place bets allow you to bet on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10) after a point has been established.
4.1 How Place Bets Work
You are betting that a specific number will be rolled before a 7.
- How it Works: After a point is set, you can place a bet on any of the place numbers. If that number is rolled before a 7, you win.
- Payouts:
- 9 to 5 on 4 and 10
- 7 to 5 on 5 and 9
- 7 to 6 on 6 and 8
- Removing Place Bets: A place bet can be taken off anytime before the next roll.
5. Field Bets: A One-Roll Gamble
Field bets are single-roll bets that can offer quick wins or losses.
5.1 How Field Bets Work
You are betting on which number will be rolled on the very next roll.
- How it Works: Place your bet in the field section before the roll. If the roll is a 3, 4, 9, 10, or 11, you win even money. If the roll is a 2, you win 2 to 1, and if it’s a 12, you win 3 to 1. You lose if the roll is a 5, 6, 7, or 8.
- Payouts:
- Even money on 3, 4, 9, 10, and 11
- 2 to 1 on 2
- 3 to 1 on 12
- Losing Numbers: You lose on 5, 6, 7, or 8.
6. Proposition Bets: High Risk, High Reward
Proposition bets, found in the center of the table, are one-roll bets with high payouts.
6.1 Types of Proposition Bets
These bets offer the potential for significant winnings on a single roll.
- Any Craps: You win if the next roll is a 2, 3, or 12. Pays 8 to 1.
- Aces or Twelve: You win if the next roll is a 2 or 12. Pays 31 to 1.
- Ace-Deuce or Eleven: You win if the next roll is a 3 or 11. Pays 16 to 1.
- Seven: You win if the next roll is a 7. Pays 5 to 1.
6.2 Understanding the Risks
Proposition bets have high payouts but also carry a high house edge.
These bets should be approached with caution and are typically not recommended for beginners.
7. Hardways: Betting on Specific Pairs
Hardways bets are not one-roll bets; you’re betting the shooter will roll a specific pair before a 7 or an “easy” combination of the number.
7.1 How Hardways Bets Work
You win if the dice roll as a pair and lose if a 7 rolls or if the number is thrown “the easy way.”
- Hard Four: The dice must roll 2, 2. Pays 8 to 1.
- Hard Ten: The dice must roll 5, 5. Pays 8 to 1.
- Hard Six: The dice must roll 3, 3. Pays 10 to 1.
- Hard Eight: The dice must roll 4, 4. Pays 10 to 1.
7.2 Example of Hardways Bets
If you bet a hard 8 and the dice roll 4, 4, you win. If the dice roll an “easy” 5, 3 or 6, 2, you lose.
8. Hop Bets: Predicting Specific Dice Combinations
Hop bets are single-roll bets where you predict the exact combination of the dice on the next roll.
8.1 How Hop Bets Work
You are betting on what you think the very next roll of the dice will be.
- How it Works: If you think the next roll is going to be a (6, 3), you would tell the dealer that you want the 6 and 3 hopping.
- Payouts: Hop bets pay 31 to 1 or 16 to 1, depending on the combination you choose.
8.2 Examples of Hop Bets
Common hop bets include betting on specific pairs or combinations that add up to a particular number.
9. Craps Strategies for Beginners
While craps involves chance, employing strategies can help manage your bankroll and improve your odds.
9.1 The Pass Line with Odds Strategy
This is a simple and popular strategy for beginners.
- How it Works: Place a pass line bet and, once a point is established, take the odds. This reduces the house edge and increases your potential payout.
9.2 The 3 Point Molly Strategy
This strategy involves placing bets on the pass line and two come bets.
- How it Works: After the come-out roll, place come bets on two different numbers. This gives you action on three numbers, increasing your chances of winning.
9.3 Bankroll Management
Setting a budget and sticking to it is crucial for responsible craps gambling.
- Tips: Determine how much you’re willing to spend and don’t exceed that amount. Also, consider setting win and loss limits for each session.
10. Common Craps Terminology
Familiarizing yourself with craps terminology will help you navigate the game more confidently.
10.1 Essential Terms
- Shooter: The person rolling the dice.
- Come-Out Roll: The first roll of the dice in a betting round.
- Point: The number established on the come-out roll (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10).
- Seven Out: Rolling a 7 before the point number.
- Hardway: Rolling a pair (e.g., 3-3 for a hard six).
- Easy Way: Rolling a number without a pair (e.g., 4-2 for an easy six).
10.2 Table Lingo
Understanding common phrases used at the craps table can enhance your gaming experience.
- “Working”: Bets are active and in play.
- “Not Working”: Bets are inactive and not in play.
- “All Tall”: A bet on the numbers 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12.
- “All Small”: A bet on the numbers 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.
Alt text: Overview of a Craps table layout highlighting various betting areas and dice positions, emphasizing the excitement of casino gaming.
11. Understanding the House Edge in Craps
Knowing the house edge for different bets can help you make informed decisions.
11.1 House Edge on Basic Bets
The house edge varies depending on the type of bet.
- Pass Line Bet: 1.41%
- Don’t Pass Line Bet: 1.36%
- Come Bet: 1.41%
- Don’t Come Bet: 1.36%
11.2 House Edge on Other Bets
Proposition bets and hardways bets have a significantly higher house edge.
- Any Craps: 11.11%
- Aces or Twelve: 13.89%
- Hard Four or Ten: 11.11%
- Hard Six or Eight: 9.09%
12. Craps Etiquette: Dos and Don’ts
Following proper etiquette at the craps table ensures a pleasant experience for everyone.
12.1 Dos
- Do wait for the shooter to finish their roll before placing bets.
- Do keep your hands away from the table during the roll.
- Do tip the dealers if you are winning.
- Do understand the bets you are making.
12.2 Don’ts
- Don’t touch the dice with both hands.
- Don’t place bets after the shooter has the dice.
- Don’t be overly aggressive or disruptive.
- Don’t change your bets excessively during a hot roll.
13. Advanced Craps Strategies
For experienced players, advanced strategies can add complexity and potential rewards.
13.1 The Iron Cross Strategy
This strategy covers most numbers, increasing your chances of winning on each roll.
- How it Works: Place bets on the 5, 6, 8, and field numbers. This leaves only the 7 uncovered, which can result in a loss.
13.2 The Hedge Bet Strategy
This strategy involves placing multiple bets to reduce risk.
- How it Works: Place a pass line bet and then hedge it with a bet on the 12 to protect against an immediate loss on the come-out roll.
13.3 Risk Management
Advanced players should have a clear understanding of risk management techniques.
- Tips: Diversify your bets, set strict loss limits, and adjust your strategy based on the flow of the game.
14. Online Craps vs. Live Craps
Playing craps online offers convenience, while live craps provides a social and immersive experience.
14.1 Online Craps
- Pros: Convenience, availability, lower minimum bets, and the ability to play at your own pace.
- Cons: Lack of social interaction, no physical dice, and potential for distractions.
14.2 Live Craps
- Pros: Social interaction, the excitement of the casino environment, and the tactile experience of rolling the dice.
- Cons: Higher minimum bets, travel required, and potential for distractions.
15. Craps Variants You Should Know
While standard craps is the most common version, several variants offer different twists on the game.
15.1 Simplified Craps
A simpler version with fewer betting options, making it easier for beginners to learn.
15.2 High Point Craps
In this variant, a come-out roll of 2 or 3 is ignored, and the shooter rolls again. A roll of 11 or 12 automatically wins.
15.3 Die Rich Craps
This version uses only one die, with different payouts based on the number rolled.
16. The Psychology of Craps Gambling
Understanding the psychological aspects of craps can help you make better decisions.
16.1 Emotional Control
Maintaining emotional control is essential for responsible gambling.
- Tips: Avoid chasing losses, take breaks when needed, and stick to your budget.
16.2 Avoiding Common Fallacies
Be aware of common gambling fallacies, such as the gambler’s fallacy.
- The Gambler’s Fallacy: The mistaken belief that if something happens more frequently than normal during a given period, it will happen less frequently in the future (or vice versa).
16.3 Staying Disciplined
Discipline is key to long-term success in craps.
- Tips: Set clear goals, stick to your strategy, and avoid impulsive decisions.
17. Legal Aspects of Craps Gambling in the USA
The legality of craps gambling varies by state in the USA.
17.1 State Regulations
Check the specific regulations in your state regarding casino gambling.
17.2 Online Gambling Laws
Online gambling laws are complex and vary by state.
- Note: It is essential to be aware of the legal landscape in your jurisdiction before engaging in online craps gambling.
18. How to Find the Best Craps Games
Choosing the right casino or online platform can enhance your craps experience.
18.1 Factors to Consider
- Reputation: Look for reputable casinos or online platforms with a proven track record.
- Table Limits: Choose games with table limits that align with your bankroll.
- House Edge: Opt for games with a lower house edge.
- Bonuses and Promotions: Take advantage of bonuses and promotions offered by casinos.
18.2 Reviews and Ratings
Read reviews and ratings from other players to get an unbiased opinion.
19. The Future of Craps Gambling
Technology is continually shaping the future of craps gambling.
19.1 Innovations
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies are enhancing the online craps experience.
19.2 Trends
Mobile gaming and live dealer craps are becoming increasingly popular.
19.3 Predictions
The future of craps gambling is likely to involve more immersive and interactive experiences.
Alt text: A lively scene at a Casino Craps table, illustrating the excitement of dice-based gaming.
20. Resources for Learning More About Craps
Numerous resources are available to help you deepen your knowledge of craps.
20.1 Books
- “Beat the Craps Out of the Casinos” by Frank Scoblete
- “Craps for the Clueless” by John Grochowski
20.2 Websites and Forums
- Wizard of Odds
- Craps.com
20.3 Online Courses
- Udemy
- Coursera
21. Common Mistakes to Avoid in Craps
Avoiding common mistakes can help you improve your odds and enjoy the game more.
21.1 Betting on Proposition Bets
Proposition bets have a high house edge and should be avoided by beginners.
21.2 Chasing Losses
Chasing losses can quickly deplete your bankroll.
21.3 Not Understanding the Rules
Ensure you fully understand the rules and bets before playing.
21.4 Over Betting
Don’t bet more than you can afford to lose.
22. How to Practice Craps Online for Free
Practicing craps online for free is an excellent way to learn the game without risking money.
22.1 Free Online Games
Many online casinos offer free versions of craps.
22.2 Demo Modes
Look for demo modes that allow you to play without making a deposit.
22.3 Benefits of Practicing
Practicing helps you become familiar with the rules, bets, and strategies.
23. Essential Craps Tools and Apps
Several tools and apps can enhance your craps playing experience.
23.1 Dice Trackers
These tools help you track the results of dice rolls.
23.2 Bankroll Management Apps
These apps help you manage your bankroll and track your winnings and losses.
23.3 Strategy Calculators
These calculators help you determine the optimal bets based on the current game situation.
24. Famous Craps Players and Their Strategies
Learning about famous craps players and their strategies can provide valuable insights.
24.1 Notable Players
- Stanley Fujitake
- Dominic LoRiggio
24.2 Their Approaches
These players are known for their disciplined approach and strategic betting.
24.3 Lessons Learned
Studying their techniques can help you develop your own winning strategy.
25. Craps Tournaments: A Competitive Edge
Craps tournaments offer a competitive and exciting way to play.
25.1 How Tournaments Work
Players compete against each other to win the most money within a set time.
25.2 Tournament Strategies
Tournament strategies differ from standard play, often requiring more aggressive betting.
25.3 Benefits of Participating
Tournaments offer the chance to win large prizes and test your skills against other players.
26. Ethical Considerations in Craps Gambling
Ethical considerations are essential for responsible gambling.
26.1 Responsible Gambling
Gamble responsibly and within your means.
26.2 Avoiding Addiction
Be aware of the signs of gambling addiction and seek help if needed.
26.3 Fair Play
Play fairly and avoid cheating or colluding with other players.
27. How to Host a Craps Game at Home
Hosting a craps game at home can be a fun and social activity.
27.1 Setting Up the Game
You’ll need a craps table, dice, and chips.
27.2 Rules and Etiquette
Establish clear rules and etiquette for the game.
27.3 Making it Fun
Create a fun and engaging atmosphere with music, snacks, and drinks.
28. Myths and Misconceptions About Craps
Many myths and misconceptions surround craps.
28.1 Common Myths
- The dice are “hot” or “cold.”
- You can control the dice.
- Certain numbers are “due” to be rolled.
28.2 Debunking Myths
These myths are based on superstition and have no basis in reality.
28.3 Understanding Probability
Craps is a game of probability, and each roll is independent of previous rolls.
29. The Role of Luck vs. Skill in Craps
Craps combines elements of luck and skill.
29.1 The Element of Luck
The outcome of each dice roll is random.
29.2 The Element of Skill
Skill comes into play through strategy, bankroll management, and understanding the odds.
29.3 Balancing Luck and Skill
Successful craps players balance luck and skill to improve their chances of winning.
30. Frequently Asked Questions About Craps
Here are some frequently asked questions about craps.
30.1 What is the best bet in craps?
The best bet in craps is generally considered to be the pass line bet with odds due to its low house edge.
30.2 How do you win at craps?
You win at craps by correctly predicting the outcome of the dice rolls and placing bets accordingly.
30.3 What is the house edge in craps?
The house edge varies depending on the bet, but the pass line bet has a house edge of 1.41%.
30.4 Can you influence the dice in craps?
While some players believe they can influence the dice, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
30.5 What is a “seven out”?
A “seven out” occurs when the shooter rolls a 7 before rolling the point number, resulting in a loss for pass line bets.
30.6 What is a hardway bet?
A hardway bet is a bet that a specific pair will be rolled before a 7 or an “easy” combination of the number.
30.7 What is a proposition bet?
Proposition bets are single-roll bets with high payouts and a high house edge, found in the center of the craps table.
30.8 How do you take the odds in craps?
You take the odds by placing an additional bet on your pass line or come bet after a point has been established.
30.9 What is the come-out roll?
The come-out roll is the first roll of the dice in a betting round, determining the next phase of the game.
30.10 Is online craps safe?
Online craps can be safe if you play at reputable and licensed online casinos.
Ready to roll the dice and test your knowledge of craps game rules? For more in-depth guides, troubleshooting assistance, and information on Polar product support, visit polarservicecenter.net. Our team in Boulder, CO, is here to help you maximize your gaming and fitness experiences. Contact us at +1 (303) 492-7080 or visit our address at 2902 Bluff St, Boulder, CO 80301, United States.
