A Comprehensive Guide on How to Play Craps

Introduction

Craps is a thrilling and fast-paced dice game often found in casinos. It’s a game of chance that combines excitement with camaraderie around the table. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to play craps and become familiar with the basics of this popular casino game.

1. Craps Basics

Craps is played with two six-sided dice, and the objective is to predict the outcome of the roll. The game involves various bets and bettors, creating an exciting and dynamic atmosphere.

2. The Shooter

In craps, one player, known as the “shooter,” rolls the dice to initiate the game. The shooter’s goal is to establish a “point” by rolling a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 on the come-out roll. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, they win, and the round continues. If they roll a 2, 3, or 12, it’s called “crapping out,” and the round ends.

3. The Come-Out Roll

Before the shooter rolls the dice, players place their bets. The come-out roll sets the stage for the round, and bets are settled based on the result. Common bets on the come-out roll include the “Pass Line” and “Don’t Pass Line” bets.

• Pass Line Bet: A bet that the shooter will win on 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. Any other number becomes the “point.”
• Don’t Pass Line Bet: A bet against the shooter winning on the come-out roll. If the shooter rolls a 2 or 3, Don’t Pass Line bets win. If they roll a 7 or 11, Don’t Pass Line bets lose. A 12 results in a push, and any other number becomes the “point.”

4. The Point

Once a point is established, the objective is to roll the same number again before rolling a 7. This is where bets on the “Place,” “Buy,” or “Lay” numbers come into play.

• Place Bet: Betting on a specific point number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) to be rolled before a 7.
• Buy Bet: Similar to a Place Bet but with a 5% commission on potential winnings.
• Lay Bet: Betting that a 7 will be rolled before a specific point number.

5. Additional Bets

Craps offers a variety of other bets, including “Come” and “Don’t Come” bets, “Field” bets, “Hardway” bets, and more. Each bet has its own rules and payouts.

6. The Roll and Payouts

The game continues until the shooter either rolls the point number, winning for the Pass Line bettors and losing for the Don’t Pass Line bettors, or rolls a 7, which results in the opposite outcomes.

7. Etiquette

When playing craps, it’s essential to understand and follow the table etiquette. Wait for your turn to place bets, avoid distracting the shooter, and be courteous to fellow players and the casino staff.

Conclusion

Craps is a fast-paced and exciting game that combines luck and strategy. Learning how to play craps can be a fun and rewarding experience, whether you’re at a casino or a social gathering. The game offers numerous betting options and opportunities for camaraderie among players. Remember to play responsibly and enjoy the thrilling world of craps, where the roll of the dice can change your fortunes in an instant. Good luck at the craps table!