Craps stands as one of the most exciting and social games found in any casino. The game revolves around players betting on the outcome of two dice being rolled across a specially designed table. While the table layout might look complex at first glance, the basic concept is simple to understand.

Craps offers some of the best odds in the casino when players know which bets to make and which ones to avoid. The game combines elements of chance with strategic betting decisions. Players can choose from simple bets with low house edges or more complex wagers that offer higher payouts but greater risk.

Understanding the rules, bet types, and basic strategies can transform what seems like a confusing dice game into an enjoyable casino experience. Whether playing in a physical casino or online, craps provides opportunities for both casual players seeking entertainment and serious gamblers looking to minimize the house advantage through smart betting choices.

What Is Craps?

Craps is a dice game where players bet on the results of rolling two dice. The game started as a street game but became one of the most popular casino games in America.

Origin and History

Craps began as a simple dice game called “hazard” in medieval Europe. English soldiers brought this game to America in the 1700s. The name “craps” comes from the French word “crapaud,” which means toad.

People played early versions of craps on the streets and in back alleys. Players would crouch down like toads while shooting dice on the ground. This gave the game its unusual name.

The modern version of craps developed in New Orleans during the early 1800s. A dice maker named John H. Winn created new rules that stopped players from using loaded dice. He added the “don’t pass” bet, which made the game fairer.

Craps spread across America as people moved west during the gold rush. Soldiers played the game during both world wars, making it even more popular.

Modern Popularity

Today, craps is one of the most exciting games in casinos around the world. Most American casinos have at least one craps table. The game is also popular in some British, Australian, and Asian casinos.

Casino craps uses a special table with a green felt layout. The table can hold up to 20 players at once. This makes craps very social compared to other casino games.

Online casinos now offer craps games too. Players can bet on dice rolls from their computers or phones. However, many players prefer live craps because of the energy and excitement at the table.

The game offers more betting options than almost any other casino game. Players can make simple bets or complex combination bets with different odds.

Craps Terminology

Craps has its own special language that players use at the table. The shooter is the person rolling the dice. Other players bet on what the shooter will roll.

The first roll is called the come out roll. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, pass line bets win. If they roll a 2, 3, or 12, pass line bets lose.

A point is established when the shooter rolls a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 on the come out roll. The shooter must roll that number again before rolling a 7 to win.

Crapping out means rolling a 2, 3, or 12 on the come out roll. Seven out means rolling a 7 after a point is established, which ends the shooter’s turn.

Common betting terms include pass line, don’t pass, come, and don’t come. Players also use phrases like “hot shooter” for someone on a winning streak.

Craps Rules and Gameplay

Craps follows a structured sequence where players bet on dice outcomes while a designated shooter rolls two dice. The game operates in distinct phases with specific procedures and social expectations that all players must understand.

Game Objective

The primary goal in craps is to correctly predict the outcome of dice rolls. Players place bets on various possibilities before the shooter throws two dice.

The most basic bet is the Pass Line. Players win if the shooter rolls 7 or 11 on the first roll. They lose if the shooter rolls 2, 3, or 12.

If the shooter rolls 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes the “point.” The shooter must roll the point number again before rolling a 7 to win Pass Line bets.

Don’t Pass bets work opposite to Pass Line bets. These bets win when Pass Line bets lose, except on 12 which typically results in a tie.

Game Phases

Craps has two main phases: Come Out and Point.

Come Out Phase The game starts with the Come Out roll. The shooter throws the dice for the first time in a round.

Rolling 7 or 11 wins Pass Line bets immediately. Rolling 2, 3, or 12 loses Pass Line bets immediately. Any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10) establishes the point.

Point Phase Once a point is set, the shooter continues rolling. The goal is to roll the point number before rolling a 7.

Rolling the point number wins Pass Line bets and starts a new Come Out phase. Rolling a 7 loses Pass Line bets and ends the shooter’s turn.

Shooter and Dice Procedures

The shooter rotates clockwise around the table. Each player gets a chance to shoot the dice.

Shooting Rules:

• Use only one hand to throw dice
• Dice must hit the far wall of the table
• Both dice must remain on the table
• Keep throws at a reasonable pace

The shooter keeps rolling until they “seven out” by rolling a 7 during the Point phase. When this happens, the dice pass to the next player.

Players can decline to shoot when it’s their turn. The dice simply move to the next willing participant.

Table Etiquette

Proper behavior keeps the game moving smoothly and maintains a friendly atmosphere.

Key Rules:

• Keep hands away from the table when dice are thrown
• Place bets quickly and clearly
• Don’t touch other players’ chips
• Avoid saying “seven” at the table

Wait for the dealer to finish paying winners before placing new bets. The dealers control the pace, so follow their lead.

Keep drinks and personal items away from the betting areas. Only handle your own chips unless specifically told otherwise by dealers.

Tip dealers by placing a bet for them rather than handing money directly. This shows good etiquette and gives dealers a chance to win along with you.

Types of Craps Bets

Craps offers dozens of betting options that fall into two main categories: single-roll bets that settle immediately and multi-roll bets that may take several throws to resolve. The most popular bets include pass line, come bets, odds bets, and various proposition wagers.

Pass Line and Don’t Pass Bets

The Pass Line bet is the most common wager in craps. Players place this bet before the come-out roll.

The Pass Line wins if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll. It loses if the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12.

If the shooter rolls a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes the point. The Pass Line bet wins if the shooter rolls the point again before rolling a 7.

The Don’t Pass bet works opposite to the Pass Line. It wins when the Pass Line loses and loses when the Pass Line wins.

Don’t Pass wins on a come-out roll of 2 or 3. It loses on 7 or 11. A roll of 12 results in a push (tie).

After a point is set, Don’t Pass wins if a 7 comes before the point number.

Bet Type	Come-Out Winners	Come-Out Losers	House Edge
Pass Line	7, 11	2, 3, 12	1.36%
Don’t Pass	2, 3	7, 11	1.36%

Come and Don’t Come Bets

Come bets work like Pass Line bets but can be placed after a point is established. Players make Come bets on any roll after the come-out.

The Come bet wins immediately on 7 or 11. It loses on 2, 3, or 12.

Any other number becomes the Come point for that specific bet. The Come bet wins if its point rolls before a 7.

Don’t Come bets operate like Don’t Pass bets. They can be placed after the point is set.

Don’t Come wins on 2 or 3 and loses on 7 or 11. A 12 results in a push.

Once a Come point is set, Don’t Come wins if a 7 rolls before the Come point number.

These bets allow players to have multiple point numbers working at the same time.

Odds Bets

Odds bets are additional wagers placed behind Pass Line, Don’t Pass, Come, or Don’t Come bets. These bets have zero house edge.

Players can take odds on Pass Line and Come bets. Taking odds means betting that the point will hit before a 7.

Players can lay odds on Don’t Pass and Don’t Come bets. Laying odds means betting that a 7 will come before the point.

Casinos limit odds bets to a multiple of the original bet. Common limits are 2x, 3x, 5x, or 10x odds.

Odds Bet Payouts:

• 4 or 10: pays 2 to 1
• 5 or 9: pays 3 to 2
• 6 or 8: pays 6 to 5

The higher the odds multiple allowed, the lower the combined house edge becomes on the total wager.

Proposition Bets

Proposition bets are one-roll wagers that settle on the next throw. These bets typically have high house edges but offer large payouts.

Any Seven pays 4 to 1 when the next roll is a 7. The house edge is 16.67%.

Any Craps wins when the next roll is 2, 3, or 12. It pays 7 to 1 with a house edge of 11.11%.

Hard Ways bets win when specific doubles roll before a 7 or the easy way of that number:

• Hard 4 (2-2) and Hard 10 (5-5): pay 7 to 1
• Hard 6 (3-3) and Hard 8 (4-4): pay 9 to 1

Horn Bets combine four one-roll bets: 2, 3, 11, and 12. Each number gets equal action from the total bet amount.

The Field Bet wins on 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12. It typically pays even money except 2 and 12, which pay 2 to 1.

Advanced Craps Bets

These betting options offer different odds and house edges compared to basic pass line wagers. Players can use place bets on specific numbers, field bets for single-roll outcomes, hardways for paired dice, and buy/lay bets with commission fees.

Place Bets

Place bets allow players to wager on specific point numbers: 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10. The bet wins when the chosen number rolls before a 7 appears.

Place bet payouts vary by number:

• 6 and 8 pay 7:6
• 5 and 9 pay 7:5
• 4 and 10 pay 9:5

The house edge ranges from 1.52% on 6 and 8 up to 6.67% on 4 and 10. Place bets on 6 and 8 offer the best odds among place betting options.

Players can make place bets at any time. They remain active until the number hits or a 7 rolls. The dealer handles all place bet positioning on the layout.

Most experienced players focus on placing the 6 and 8 due to their lower house edge. These numbers appear more frequently than other place bet options.

Field Bets

Field bets are single-roll wagers that win on 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12. They lose on 5, 6, 7, or 8. Each roll determines the outcome immediately.

Standard field bet payouts include:

• Even money: 3, 4, 9, 10, 11
• 2:1 payout: 2 and 12

The house edge typically runs 2.78% with standard payouts. Some casinos offer 3:1 on the 12, reducing the house edge to 2.56%.

Field bets appeal to players wanting quick action. The bet covers seven winning numbers versus four losing numbers. However, the losing numbers (5, 6, 7, 8) appear more frequently than winning combinations.

Players place field bets directly on the field area of the layout. No dealer assistance is required for this self-service wager.

Hardways

Hardways bets win when specific doubles appear before the number rolls easy or a 7 shows. The four hardway options are hard 4 (2-2), hard 6 (3-3), hard 8 (4-4), and hard 10 (5-5).

Hardway payouts and house edges:

• Hard 6 and 8: 9:1 payout, 9.09% house edge
• Hard 4 and 10: 7:1 payout, 11.11% house edge

These bets remain active until they win or lose. A hard 6 wins only on 3-3, but loses on 1-5, 2-4, or any 7.

Hardways carry high house edges compared to basic craps bets. They attract players seeking big payouts despite unfavorable odds. The bets add excitement but drain bankrolls over time.

Buy and Lay Bets

Buy bets work like place bets but pay true odds minus a 5% commission. Lay bets work opposite to buy bets, winning when a 7 rolls before the chosen number.

Buy bet true odds:

• 4 and 10 pay 2:1
• 5 and 9 pay 3:2
• 6 and 8 pay 6:5

The 5% commission applies to the bet amount or winnings, depending on casino rules. Buy bets become advantageous on 4 and 10 when betting $25 or more.

Lay bets require larger wagers since they win less than the amount risked. Players lay odds against numbers hitting. The house edge on lay bets ranges from 2.44% to 4.00% depending on the number.

Craps Strategies

Smart craps players focus on low house edge bets like Pass Line and Don’t Pass, while advanced players use betting systems to manage wins and losses. Proper bankroll management keeps players in the game longer and protects their money.

Basic Strategies for Beginners

New craps players should start with the Pass Line bet. This bet has a house edge of only 1.4%. Players win when the shooter rolls 7 or 11 on the come-out roll.

The Don’t Pass bet offers even better odds with a 1.36% house edge. This bet wins when the shooter rolls 2 or 3 on the come-out roll. Many players avoid this bet because they’re betting against the shooter.

Taking odds behind Pass Line bets reduces the house edge further. These bets pay true odds with no house advantage. Players can usually bet 2x to 5x their original Pass Line wager.

Beginners should avoid complicated bets in the center of the table. These include hardways, any seven, and hop bets. These bets have house edges ranging from 9% to 16%.

Advanced Betting Systems

The 3-4-5 odds system lets players bet different multiples behind their line bets. Players can bet 3x odds on 4 and 10, 4x odds on 5 and 9, and 5x odds on 6 and 8.

Come and Don’t Come bets work like Pass and Don’t Pass after the point is set. These bets give players more action while keeping the house edge low.

The 6-8 Place bet strategy focuses on the most frequently rolled numbers after 7. Place bets on 6 and 8 have a 1.52% house edge. Players bet $6 on each number and collect $7 when they hit.

Some players use regression betting to lock in profits. They start with larger bets and reduce them after winning. This protects winnings while staying in the game.

Managing Your Bankroll

Players should bring 20 to 40 times their average bet to the table. A player betting $10 should have $200 to $400 in their bankroll. This gives enough money to handle normal ups and downs.

Set win and loss limits before playing. Many successful players quit when they double their money or lose half their bankroll. Stick to these limits no matter what happens at the table.

Avoid chasing losses with bigger bets or risky propositions. Bad streaks happen in craps. Smart players keep making good bets and wait for the dice to turn.

Track your betting patterns and results over time. This helps identify which strategies work best for your playing style and bankroll size.

Craps Odds and Payouts

Understanding craps odds and payouts helps players make better betting decisions at the table. The house edge varies greatly between different bets, from less than 1% to over 16%, while payout structures range from even money to 30-to-1 odds.

House Edge Explained

The house edge represents the casino’s mathematical advantage over players on each bet. This percentage shows how much the casino expects to keep from every dollar wagered over time.

Pass Line bets have a house edge of 1.36%, making them one of the best bets in craps. Don’t Pass bets are even better at 1.40% house edge.

Place bets vary by number:

• 6 and 8: 1.52% house edge
• 5 and 9: 4.00% house edge
• 4 and 10: 6.67% house edge

The worst bets include Any 7 with a 16.67% house edge and Hard Ways ranging from 9.09% to 11.11%. Proposition bets in the center of the table typically carry house edges above 10%.

Odds bets behind Pass or Don’t Pass lines have zero house edge. These are the only bets where the casino has no mathematical advantage.

Payout Structures

Craps payouts vary significantly based on the probability of each outcome occurring. Understanding these ratios helps players calculate potential winnings.

Even money payouts (1:1) apply to Pass Line, Don’t Pass, Come, and Don’t Come bets. A $10 bet wins $10.

Place bet payouts:

• 4 or 10: pays 9:5 ($18 for $10 bet)
• 5 or 9: pays 7:5 ($14 for $10 bet)
• 6 or 8: pays 7:6 ($11.67 for $10 bet)

Odds bet payouts match true odds:

• 4 or 10: pays 2:1
• 5 or 9: pays 3:2
• 6 or 8: pays 6:5

Proposition bets offer higher payouts but worse odds. Any 7 pays 4:1, while some hop bets pay up to 30:1.

Probability of Winning Bets

Dice combinations create different probabilities for each craps bet. Two dice can make 36 possible combinations, determining the likelihood of each outcome.

The number 7 appears most frequently with 6 ways to make it (16.67% chance). Numbers 6 and 8 each have 5 ways (13.89% each).

Pass Line bets win on the come-out roll with 7 or 11 (8 ways total). They lose with 2, 3, or 12 (4 ways total). The overall win probability is 49.29%.

Place bet probabilities:

• 6 or 8: 45.45% chance to win before a 7
• 5 or 9: 40% chance to win before a 7
• 4 or 10: 33.33% chance to win before a 7

Hard Ways require both dice to show the same number. Hard 6 or 8 has a 9.09% chance, while Hard 4 or 10 has an 11.11% chance.

Any Craps (2, 3, or 12) has a 11.11% probability on any single roll.

Playing Craps Online

Online craps offers the same basic gameplay as casino tables but with key differences in pace, atmosphere, and software mechanics. Players need reliable casino platforms and understanding of digital random number generation to enjoy authentic craps experiences.

Differences from Land-Based Craps

Online craps moves at a much faster pace than casino tables. Players control the timing of each roll instead of waiting for other players to place bets.

The social atmosphere disappears in digital versions. No crowds cheer for hot shooters or groan during cold streaks. Players miss the excitement of handling real dice and chips.

Betting mechanics work differently online:

• All bets place with mouse clicks or screen taps
• No need to toss chips to dealers
• Instant bet confirmation appears on screen
• Automatic payout calculations prevent dealer errors

Digital craps tables never close. Players access games 24/7 without travel time or dress codes.

Minimum bets start much lower online. Many sites offer $1 minimum bets compared to $10-25 minimums at most casinos.

Online Craps Software

Random number generators (RNGs) replace physical dice in online craps. Licensed software providers use complex algorithms to ensure fair, unpredictable outcomes.

Major software providers include:

• Evolution Gaming
• NetEnt
• Microgaming
• Playtech
• RTG (Real Time Gaming)

RNG systems undergo regular testing by independent auditors. Companies like eCOGRA and GLI verify that software produces truly random results matching casino odds.

Live dealer craps bridges online and land-based gaming. Real dealers throw actual dice while cameras stream the action to players’ screens.

Graphics quality varies between providers. Premium software features realistic 3D tables with smooth animations and clear bet layouts.

Mobile compatibility lets players access craps games on smartphones and tablets. Most modern platforms support both iOS and Android devices.

Choosing a Safe Online Casino

Valid gaming licenses indicate legitimate casino operations. Look for licenses from Malta Gaming Authority, UK Gambling Commission, or state regulators like New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement.

Key safety factors to verify:

• SSL encryption protects financial data
• Segregated player funds kept separate from operating money
• Regular third-party audits of games and finances
• Responsible gambling tools available

Banking options should include trusted methods. Credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers offer better protection than cryptocurrency or wire transfers.

Customer support quality reveals casino priorities. Test response times through live chat before depositing money.

Red flags to avoid:

• No visible licensing information
• Delayed withdrawal processing
• Poor customer service reviews
• Unrealistic bonus terms

Bonus terms require careful reading. Wagering requirements often make craps bonuses difficult to clear since many sites exclude or limit craps play.

Craps Variations

Craps comes in several different forms, each with unique rules and betting options. The three main versions change how players can bet and what numbers matter during gameplay.

Bank Craps

Bank Craps is the standard version played in most casinos around the world. Players bet against the house rather than against each other.

The game uses two dice and follows traditional craps rules. On the come-out roll, players win on 7 or 11 and lose on 2, 3, or 12.

Key features of Bank Craps:

• Pass line and don’t pass bets available
• Wide variety of betting options
• House edge ranges from 1.4% to over 16%
• Most common version in land-based and online casinos

The shooter establishes a point on 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10. They must roll the point again before rolling a 7 to win.

Bank Craps offers the most betting choices. Players can make odds bets, place bets, field bets, and proposition bets during each round.

New York Craps

New York Craps removes some betting options found in Bank Craps. Players cannot make pass line, don’t pass, come, or don’t come bets.

This version focuses on box numbers: 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10. Players bet directly on these numbers to win.

Betting structure:

• Only box number bets allowed
• House takes 5% commission on winning bets
• Higher house edge than Bank Craps
• Simpler betting layout

The shooter still rolls two dice and follows basic craps mechanics. However, the limited betting options make games faster and easier for beginners.

New York Craps appeared in some East Coast casinos but is less common today. The 5% commission increases the house advantage significantly.

High Point Craps

High Point Craps changes the opening roll rules completely. Players cannot lose on the come-out roll, making it seem more player-friendly.

On the first roll, 2 and 3 are ignored rather than causing immediate losses. The shooter keeps rolling until they get 4 or higher.

Rule differences:

• No losing on come-out roll
• 11 and 12 win immediately
• Point must be 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10
• Higher house edge despite seeming easier

Once a point is set, normal craps rules apply. The shooter wins by rolling the point before rolling a 7.

The house edge increases to about 2.8% because of how the modified rules work. This makes High Point Craps less favorable than Bank Craps for players.

Social and Cultural Aspects of Craps

Craps has developed unique social traditions that make it one of the most interactive casino games. The game features specific customs around tipping dealers and widespread beliefs about luck that influence how players behave at the table.

Craps in Popular Culture

Craps gained major popularity during World War II when soldiers played simplified versions of the game. This military connection helped spread the game across America after the war ended.

The game became a symbol of American gambling culture in movies and television. Classic films often showed craps tables as exciting, fast-paced environments where fortunes could change quickly.

Street craps also became part of urban culture in many American cities. People played informal versions in alleys and back rooms, making the game accessible beyond casinos.

Key cultural appearances include:

• War movies showing soldiers gambling
• Crime films featuring underground games
• Television shows set in Las Vegas casinos

The communal nature of craps creates excitement that draws crowds. Players cheer together when the shooter wins, creating an electric atmosphere that other casino games rarely match.

Tipping at the Craps Table

Craps dealers expect tips more than dealers at most other casino games. The complex nature of the game means dealers provide more active service to players.

Standard tipping practices:

• Place bets for dealers on pass line or odds
• Tip after winning streaks or big payouts
• Give cash directly to dealers when leaving

Many players tip by making bets for the dealers rather than handing over cash. This method lets dealers participate in the excitement of the game while receiving their tip.

The typical tip amount ranges from $1 to $5 per bet for recreational players. High rollers often tip much more, especially during hot rolls that last many throws.

Some players tip the stickman separately since they handle the dice and call the game. Others prefer to tip all dealers equally by placing group bets.

Superstitions and Rituals

Craps players follow many superstitions about dice control and table luck. These beliefs influence betting patterns and behavior at tables across all casinos.

Common superstitions include:

• Never saying “seven” at the table
• Requiring dice to hit the back wall
• Believing new shooters bring bad luck
• Avoiding betting when dice fall off table

Many players have personal rituals for throwing dice. Some blow on the dice, shake them a certain number of times, or use specific throwing motions they believe bring luck.

Women shooters are often considered especially lucky by other players. This superstition leads to increased betting and excitement when women take their turn with the dice.

Players also believe that negative comments or attitudes can affect the dice outcome. Tables often become quiet or tense when someone makes pessimistic remarks during a roll.

Frequently Asked Questions

New craps players often have similar questions about game mechanics, betting strategies, and odds calculations. Understanding these core concepts helps players make better decisions at the table and enjoy the game more confidently.

What are the basic rules of craps?

Craps centers around a shooter rolling two dice. Players bet on the outcome of these rolls.

The game starts with a come-out roll. If the shooter rolls 7 or 11, Pass Line bets win immediately. If they roll 2, 3, or 12, Pass Line bets lose.

Any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) becomes the point number. The shooter continues rolling until they hit the point number again or roll a 7.

If the point number comes up first, Pass Line bets win. If a 7 appears first, Pass Line bets lose and the shooter’s turn ends.

Does the outcome in craps rely more on skill or luck?

Craps outcomes depend entirely on luck. The dice rolls are random and no player can control or predict the results.

Players cannot influence the dice through throwing techniques or betting systems. Each roll is independent of previous rolls.

The only skill involved is understanding which bets offer better odds. Smart players choose bets with lower house edges to improve their chances over time.

What bet in craps is considered the riskiest?

Proposition bets in the center of the table carry the highest risk. These include betting on specific numbers like 2, 3, 11, or 12.

The Any Seven bet is particularly risky with a house edge over 16%. Hard Ways bets also have high house edges ranging from 9% to 11%.

These bets pay high amounts but rarely win. The house advantage makes them poor choices for most players.

How does one calculate the odds in a craps game?

Craps odds depend on the probability of rolling specific numbers with two dice. There are 36 possible combinations when rolling two dice.

The number 7 has six ways to appear, making it the most likely outcome. Numbers like 6 and 8 have five ways each to appear.

Players can calculate house edge by comparing the true odds to the payout odds. Pass Line bets have a house edge of 1.4% because they pay even money on bets that win slightly less than half the time.

Can you explain the various types of bets in craps?

Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line are the main bets. Pass Line wins on 7 or 11 and loses on 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll.

Come and Don’t Come bets work like Pass Line bets but can be made after a point is established. These bets also have low house edges.

Field bets win on specific numbers in one roll. Place bets allow players to bet on individual point numbers.

Proposition bets cover single-roll outcomes like Any Craps or Yo-eleven. These bets have much higher house edges than line bets.

What are some common strategies for playing craps?

Most experienced players stick to Pass Line or Don’t Pass Line bets. These offer the lowest house edge at around 1.4%.

Taking or laying odds behind the line bet reduces the overall house advantage even further. Odds bets have no house edge and pay true odds.

Smart bankroll management helps players last longer at the table. Bringing 40 times the table minimum gives players enough money to handle normal losing streaks.

Avoiding proposition bets and high house edge wagers keeps losses smaller over time. Players should focus on the simpler bets rather than complex betting systems.