Why Craps is the Loudest Game in the Casino
If you have ever heard a loud cheer in a casino, it likely came from the craps table. Craps is a fast-paced dice game that offers some of the best odds in the casino. Despite these benefits, the complicated table layout and fast pace often scare away new players. In truth, learning how to play craps is easy if you focus on the primary betting lines. By learning the step-by-step process of a craps round, you can join the action with confidence.
Understanding the First Roll of the Dice
A round of craps is played in rounds, starting with the "come-out" roll. The person rolling the dice is called the "shooter," and they must place a bet on the Pass Line. During this first throw, the shooter rolls both dice to establish the initial score. If the roll is a 7 or 11, the Pass Line bet wins immediately, and the round ends. If the total is 2, 3, or 12, the shooter craps out, causing the Pass Line bet to lose.
What is the Point Number
If the first throw results in a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, the dealer marks that number as the point:
- The croupier slides a white marker onto the point number box to indicate the active target.
- To win the second phase, the shooter must roll the point number before rolling a 7.
- If the shooter rolls a 7 before hitting the point number, the Pass Line bet loses (seven-out).
To visualize the outcomes of the come-out roll, refer to the reference table below:
| Dice Roll Total | Roll Name | Pass Line Bet Result | Next Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Natural | Natural | Pass Line wins | Start a new round |
| 2, 3, or 12 points | Loss | Loses your bet | New come-out roll by same shooter |
| 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10 | The Point | Wager is locked | Shooter rolls until point or 7 hits |
Best Bets to Make at the Craps Table
The best way to play craps is to stick to the simplest bets with the lowest house edge. The Pass Line wager is a player favorite because its house edge is only 1.41%. Once the point is active, you can place a free Odds bet behind your original wager. The Odds wager is the only bet in the entire casino (tonybets-ca.com) that has a mathematical house edge of exactly 0%. By taking the full odds allowed, you can reduce the total house advantage to a fraction of a percent.
Concluding Tips for Dice Players
Ultimately, craps is a highly rewarding casino game once you get past the initial learning curve. Focus on the Pass Line, take free odds bets, and steer clear of the center table proposition bets. By following this step-by-step guide, you will be ready to join the table and enjoy the game.
