How to Play Craps at the Casino: A Comprehensive Guide
Table of Contents
1. Introduction to Craps
2. Understanding the Craps Table
3. The Basics of the Game
4. The Come Out Roll
5. The Point
6. Betting Options
7. Common Craps Terms
8. Strategies for Playing Craps
9. Tips for Successful Craps Play
10. Conclusion
1. Introduction to Craps
Craps is a popular dice game that has been around for centuries. It is often considered one of the most exciting games in a casino, with its fast-paced action and a variety of betting options. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, learning how to play craps can enhance your casino experience.
2. Understanding the Craps Table
The craps table is the centerpiece of the game. It is large and circular, with a green felt surface. The table is marked with various sections and numbers, which correspond to different betting options. The table also features a dealer and several players.
3. The Basics of the Game
Craps is played with two dice. The objective of the game is to predict the outcome of the dice rolls. The game starts with a come out roll, where the player who rolls the dice on the come out roll determines the point. The point is the number that the player must roll again to win.
4. The Come Out Roll
The come out roll is the first roll of the dice in a craps game. The player who rolls the dice on the come out roll is known as the shooter. The shooter's goal is to roll a 7 or 11, which is called a natural, and win the game. If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, which is called a craps, the shooter loses the game. If the shooter rolls any other number, that number becomes the point.
5. The Point
Once the point is established, the shooter must roll the point number again to win. If the shooter rolls a 7 before rolling the point number, the shooter loses. If the shooter rolls the point number again, the shooter wins.
6. Betting Options
There are several betting options in craps, including:
- Pass Line Bet: A bet that the shooter will win the come out roll.
- Don't Pass Line Bet: A bet that the shooter will lose the come out roll.
- Come Bet: A bet that the shooter will win after the come out roll.
- Don't Come Bet: A bet that the shooter will lose after the come out roll.
- Place Bet: A bet on a specific number to be rolled before a 7.
- Buy Bet: A bet on a specific number to be rolled before a 7, with a reduced payout.
- Lay Bet: A bet on a specific number to be rolled before a 7, with a higher payout.
7. Common Craps Terms
- "Shooter": The player who rolls the dice.
- "Dealer": The person who manages the game and pays out winnings.
- "Come Out Roll": The first roll of the dice in a craps game.
- "Point": The number that the shooter must roll again to win.
- "Natural": A 7 or 11 rolled on the come out roll.
- "Craps": A 2, 3, or 12 rolled on the come out roll.
8. Strategies for Playing Craps
- Start with small bets and gradually increase them as you become more comfortable with the game.
- Learn the different betting options and their odds before playing.
- Avoid making complicated bets, as they have lower odds of winning.
- Use a craps strategy chart to make informed betting decisions.
- Stay focused and avoid distractions while playing.
9. Tips for Successful Craps Play
- Practice playing craps at a free play table or online before playing for real money.
- Watch other players and learn from their strategies.
- Set a budget and stick to it to avoid overspending.
- Take breaks to avoid fatigue and make poor decisions.
- Have fun and enjoy the game.
10. Conclusion
Playing craps at the casino can be a thrilling experience, but it is essential to understand the rules and strategies before you start playing. By following this comprehensive guide, you can enhance your craps knowledge and increase your chances of winning.
Questions and Answers
1. Q: What is the difference between a pass line bet and a don't pass line bet?
- A: A pass line bet is a bet that the shooter will win the come out roll, while a don't pass line bet is a bet that the shooter will lose the come out roll.
2. Q: Can I make a come bet after the come out roll?
- A: Yes, you can make a come bet after the come out roll, as long as the point has not yet been established.
3. Q: What is the payout for a place bet on a 6 or 8?
- A: The payout for a place bet on a 6 or 8 is 6 to 5.
4. Q: Can I place a bet on more than one number at a time?
- A: Yes, you can place bets on multiple numbers at the same time, but the payouts will vary depending on the number of numbers you choose.
5. Q: What is the difference between a buy bet and a lay bet?
- A: A buy bet is a bet on a specific number to be rolled before a 7, with a reduced payout. A lay bet is a bet on a specific number to be rolled before a 7, with a higher payout.
6. Q: Can I change my bets after the come out roll?
- A: Yes, you can change your bets after the come out roll, as long as the point has not yet been established.
7. Q: What is the probability of rolling a 7 in craps?
- A: The probability of rolling a 7 in craps is approximately 16.67%.
8. Q: Can I play craps online?
- A: Yes, you can play craps online at many online casinos.
9. Q: What is the best strategy for playing craps?
- A: The best strategy for playing craps is to start with small bets, learn the rules and betting options, and use a craps strategy chart to make informed decisions.
10. Q: Can I win money playing craps?
- A: Yes, you can win money playing craps, but it is important to remember that it is a game of chance, and there is no guaranteed way to win.
