The Ultimate Guide to Craps: A Popular Casino Dice Game

The Ultimate Guide to Craps: A Popular Casino Dice Game

In the bustling, neon-lit world of casinos, few games capture the excitement and camaraderie of the gaming floor quite like craps. Known for its rapid-fire action, dynamic atmosphere, and potential for big wins, craps has cemented its place as a favorite among seasoned gamblers and newcomers alike. 

Learn the ins and outs of craps in our post below and uncover what makes this dice game a thrilling staple of casino culture.

The Basics of Craps

At its heart, craps is a game of chance played with two dice. The objective is straightforward: players bet on the outcome of rolls, either by wagering on specific numbers or combinations, or by betting against the shooter (the player rolling the dice). The game is typically played on a specially designed table with intricate betting layouts that can initially seem daunting to the uninitiated but quickly become familiar.

The Come-Out Roll

Every round of craps begins with what's called the "come-out roll." This roll determines the game's point, which is established based on the initial roll of the dice. Here's how it works:

  1. Pass Line Bet: Players can bet on the "pass line" before the come-out roll. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, those who bet on the pass line win. Rolling a 2, 3, or 12 (known as "craps") results in a loss for pass line bettors.
  2. Establishing the Point: If the come-out roll results in a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes the "point." The shooter then continues rolling the dice until they either roll the point number again (a win for pass line bettors) or roll a 7 (which ends the round with a loss for pass line bettors).

The Role of the Shooter

In craps, players take turns being the "shooter," meaning they roll the dice. The shooter continues to roll until they "seven out" (roll a 7 after establishing a point), at which point the dice pass to the next player in a clockwise direction.

Types of Bets

Craps offers a variety of betting options beyond the basic pass line bet, each with its own odds and payouts. Some common bets include:

  1. Come Bet: Similar to the pass line bet but placed after the point has been established.
  2. Don’t Come Bet: The reverse of the come bet. Players lose on a 7 or 11, and win if the roll is 2 or 3. If the 12 rolls, the don't come bet is a push. Any other number becomes the don't come point.
  3. Don't Pass Bet: The reverse of the pass line bet that occurs before the come-out roll. Essentially, you’re betting against the shooter, where players win if the come-out roll is 2 or 3 (12 is a tie) and lose if it's 7 or 11.
  4. Place Bets: Betting on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) to be rolled before a 7.
  5. Field Bet: Betting on the numbers 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12 to be rolled on the next throw.

Craps Specific Dice Roll Names

In craps, one of the more fun aspects of the game is the terminology for different dice rolls. These specific dice rolls have unique names and often reflect the outcomes or specific combinations rolled. Here are the common dice roll names used in craps:

  1. Natural: A natural is when the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll. This immediately wins for players who bet on the pass line.
  2. Craps: Craps refers to rolling a 2 (snake eyes), 3 (ace-deuce), or 12 (boxcars) on the come-out roll. These numbers result in an immediate loss for pass line bettors.
  3. Point Number: After the come-out roll, if the shooter rolls a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes the point. The objective then is for the shooter to roll that number again before rolling a 7.
  4. Seven Out: This occurs when the shooter rolls a 7 after establishing a point. It ends the round and results in a loss for pass line bettors.
  5. Hardways: A hardway is a roll where both dice show the same number. In craps, the specific hardways bets include:
    • Hard 4 (2-2)
    • Hard 6 (3-3)
    • Hard 8 (4-4)
    • Hard 10 (5-5)
  6. These bets win if the specified hardway is rolled before a 7 or a non-pair combination of the same total.
  7. Yo (Eleven): Rolling an 11 on any roll. It's called "yo" because it sounds like "yo-leven."
  8. Big Red (Seven): Rolling a 7, often referred to as "Big Red" because 7 is typically displayed in red on the craps table layout.
  9. Ace-Deuce: Rolling a 3 (1 on one die and 2 on the other).
  10. Boxcars: Rolling a 12 (two sixes).
  11. Little Joe (Four): Rolling a 4 (2 on one die and 2 on the other).
  12. Fever Five (Five): Rolling a 5 (2 on one die and 3 on the other).
  13. Six One, You're Done (Seven): Rolling a 7
craps dice roll names

The Atmosphere of Craps

One of the most distinctive aspects of craps is its lively and social atmosphere. Players often cheer each other on, particularly when a shooter is on a winning streak. The craps table becomes a focal point of excitement and camaraderie, where strangers can bond over shared wins and losses.

Strategy and Skill

While craps is primarily a game of chance, there are strategic elements that can influence gameplay. Experienced players may employ betting systems or strategies to manage their wagers and maximize their chances of winning, such as hedging bets or varying bet sizes based on outcomes.

 

Craps is more than just a game of dice; it's a sensory experience that epitomizes the thrill and energy of casino gaming. Whether you're drawn in by the strategic bets, the fast-paced action, or the social atmosphere, craps offers something for everyone. Next time you find yourself in a casino, consider joining the excitement at the craps table. With its rich history, dynamic gameplay, and potential for big wins, craps continues to be a beloved classic in the world of gambling.

So, roll the dice, place your bets, and immerse yourself in the exhilarating world of craps. Who knows? Lady Luck might just be on your side tonight.

Happy rolling!

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