Craps is one of the most exciting and dynamic games in the casino, offering players a thrilling experience with every roll of the dice. This guide aims to introduce new players to the world of craps, providing a comprehensive overview of the game, its history, rules, strategies, and etiquette. By the end, you’ll be well-equipped to join a craps table with confidence.
What are Craps?
Overview
Craps is a dice game where players make wagers on the outcome of the roll, or a series of rolls, of a pair of dice. It is known for its fast pace and the wide variety of betting options available to players. The game is often seen as a communal activity in casinos, with players rooting for or against the roller, also known as the “shooter.”
History of Craps
Curious about what are craps? Craps has a rich history that dates back to medieval England. The game evolved from a similar game called “Hazard,” and was later brought to America by French colonists.
Over time, it became popular in the United States, particularly during World War II, when soldiers played the game to pass the time. Today, craps is a staple in casinos around the world, both in land-based and online formats.
The Craps Table: A Quick Tour
The craps table might look intimidating at first, but understanding its layout is key to enjoying the game. The table is divided into three main sections:
- Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line: These are the most basic bets in craps. The Pass Line bet wins if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll and loses if they roll a 2, 3, or 12. The Don’t Pass Line bet is the opposite.
- Come and Don’t Come Bets: Similar to the Pass and Don’t Pass bets but can be placed after the come-out roll.
- Proposition Bets: Located in the center of the table, these are one-roll bets with high payouts but also high house edges.
Understanding these sections will help you place your bets confidently.
Craps Terminology: Learn the Lingo
Craps has its own unique language. Here are some common terms you’ll encounter:
- Shooter: The player rolling the dice.
- Come-Out Roll: The first roll of the dice to start a betting round.
- Point: The number established by the come-out roll if it’s not a 7, 11, 2, 3, or 12.
- Natural: A come-out roll of 7 or 11.
- Craps: A come-out roll of 2, 3, or 12, resulting in a loss for Pass Line bets.
- Snake Eyes: Rolling a two (double ones).
- Boxcars: Rolling a twelve (double sixes).
Familiarizing yourself with these terms will enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the game. So, next time someone asks, what are craps? you’ll not only know the answer but also speak the language fluently.
How to Play Craps: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Place Your Bets
At the beginning of a round, players place their bets on the Pass Line or Don’t Pass Line. The shooter then makes the come-out roll.
Step 2: Come-Out Roll
- If the roll is a 7 or 11 (a natural), Pass Line bets win.
- If the roll is a 2, 3, or 12 (craps), Pass Line bets lose.
- Any other number becomes the “point.”
Step 3: Establish the Point
The shooter continues to roll the dice until they roll the point number again (resulting in a win for Pass Line bets) or a 7 (resulting in a loss for Pass Line bets).
Step 4: Additional Bets
Players can place additional bets, such as Come bets, after the point is established. These follow similar rules to the Pass Line bet but can be placed at any time.
Popular Craps Betting Strategies
Craps is a game of chance, but employing certain betting strategies can help players manage their bets and potentially improve their outcomes. To get a better understanding of what are craps and how to play effectively, here are three popular betting strategies:
The Pass Line Strategy
The Pass Line Strategy is the most straightforward and recommended approach for beginners who are just learning what is craps game.
When you place a bet on the Pass Line, you are betting that the shooter will win. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, you win. If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, you lose.
If any other number is rolled, that number becomes the point. Your goal is to support the shooter to roll the point number again before a 7 is rolled.
To enhance this strategy, once a point is established, you can place odds bets behind your original Pass Line bet. This additional bet called the “odds bet,” has no house edge, which increases your potential winnings.
The Don’t Pass Strategy
The Don’t Pass Strategy is essentially the opposite of the Pass Line Strategy, involving betting against the shooter. When you place a bet on the Don’t Pass Line, you are betting that the shooter will lose. If the shooter rolls a 2 or 3 on the come-out roll, you win. A roll of 7 or 11 results in a loss, and a roll of 12 is a push.
Any other number rolled becomes the point, and you are betting that a 7 will be rolled before the point number is rolled again. Although this strategy is less popular among players due to its contrary nature, it offers a lower house edge, making it a viable option for those looking to maximize their chances over the long run.
The 3-Point Molly
The 3-Point Molly Strategy is a more advanced approach that involves a combination of Pass Line bets and Come bets, allowing for multiple opportunities to win. If you’re wondering what are craps and looking to deepen your understanding, this strategy can be a game-changer.
To start, you place a bet on the Pass Line. Once a point is established, you back your Pass Line bet with an odds bet. Next, you place a Come bet. If the Come bet wins on the next roll (a 7 or 11), you win and place another Come bet. If the Come bet establishes a new point, you back it with odds and place another Come bet.
The goal is to always have three active bets (the Pass Line and two Come bets) backed with odds. This strategy provides multiple chances to win on each roll, making it a dynamic and potentially lucrative way to play.
Craps Etiquette: Be a Respectful Player
Basic Do’s and Don’ts at the Table
- Do: Be courteous and polite to other players and the dealers.
- Don’t: Touch the dice with both hands or throw them off the table.
How to Handle Wins and Losses Gracefully
Celebrate wins modestly and accept losses with composure. Craps is a social game, and maintaining a positive attitude enhances the experience for everyone.
Online Craps vs. Live Craps: What’s the Difference?
Advantages and Disadvantages of Each
Online Craps:
- Advantages: Convenience, ability to play at your own pace, and often lower minimum bets.
- Disadvantages: Lack of social interaction and the excitement of a live table.
Live Craps:
- Advantages: Social interaction, immersive experience, and the thrill of live gameplay.
- Disadvantages: Higher minimum bets and potential for crowded tables.
Tips for Choosing a Reputable Online Casino
Look for online casinos with strong reputations, proper licensing, secure payment options, and good customer reviews. This ensures a safe and enjoyable gaming experience.
7 Craps Tips for Success
- Understand the Rules: New to craps and wondering what are craps? Let’s start by mastering the game rules and betting options.
- Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget and stick to it to avoid overspending.
- Start with the Basics: Begin with simple bets like the Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line.
- Learn the Odds: Know the odds and payouts for each bet to make informed decisions.
- Avoid Proposition Bets: These bets have a high house edge and are best avoided.
- Practice Online: Use online platforms to practice and refine your strategy.
- Stay Calm: Maintain a calm and positive demeanor, regardless of wins or losses.
Famous Craps Players
Craps has seen its fair share of notable players, including high rollers and celebrities who have made headlines with their big wins and bold bets. If you’re curious about what are craps and want to understand more about this thrilling dice game, learning about these legendary players can provide both inspiration and insight.
Patricia Demauro
Back in 2009, she shattered a two-decade-long record by making an incredible 154 throws in a four-hour-long craps session. What makes her achievement even more astounding is that she was a novice player. Her extraordinary win truly questions the existence of dice control and adds a fascinating chapter to the answer to “what is the game craps.”
Dominic Loriggio
Also known as “The Dice Dominator,” is another craps maestro who defies the odds with skill rather than sheer luck. Known for his uncanny ability to control the fall of the dice, Loriggio has made a name for himself in the world of craps.
His method, a meticulous eight-step approach, is believed to increase the chances of avoiding seven-out rolls, making him one of the most respected players in the game. His expertise offers a deeper understanding of what are craps and how some players attempt to influence the outcome.
Stanley Fujitake
Before these two legends, there was Stanley Fujitake, who set a craps record that stood unbroken for two decades. Fujitake earned more than $1,000,000 in a three-hour craps roll at the California Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas in 1989.
His record-breaking streak of 118 rolls before hitting a seven earned him a spot in the “Golden Arm Club” of lucky victors. Fujitake’s feat remains a significant part of craps lore and demonstrates the potential for extraordinary outcomes in this dynamic game.
These stories of remarkable players help illustrate what are craps: a game of chance with opportunities for incredible winning streaks, whether through luck or skill.
Conclusion
Understanding craps, from its history and rules to strategies and etiquette, can greatly enhance your gaming experience. Whether playing online or at a live casino, being well-informed and prepared is key to enjoying and potentially winning at this thrilling dice game. For an exceptional online craps experience, explore HunnyPlay and put your newfound knowledge of what are craps to the test. Good luck and happy rolling!