With its energetic atmosphere, loud cheers, and thrilling bets, craps might seem complicated at first, but once you understand the basics, it’s easy and fun to play. This bold guide will walk you through the rules, the best bets to make, and essential strategies to play smarter.
Understanding the Basics of Craps
Craps is played with two dice. The player rolling the dice is called the “shooter.” Everyone at the table bets on the outcome of the roll (or a series of rolls). Here’s how a typical game works:
- The shooter makes a “come-out roll” — the first roll of a new round.
- If the come-out roll is a 7 or 11, Pass Line bets win instantly.
- If the come-out roll is 2, 3, or 12, Pass Line bets lose (this is called “crapping out”).
- Any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10) becomes the “point.”
- The shooter continues rolling until they roll the point again (win) or a 7 (lose).
Pro Tip: The basic flow of craps is very simple once you get used to the Pass Line rules!
Most Important Craps Bets Explained
Pass Line Bet
The most popular and basic bet. Win if the come-out roll is 7 or 11; lose on 2, 3, or 12. After a point is set, you win if the point is rolled again before a 7.
Don’t Pass Line Bet
The opposite of the Pass Line. You win on 2 or 3, lose on 7 or 11, and tie (push) on 12. After the point, you win if a 7 is rolled before the point.
Come Bet
Like a Pass Line bet but made after the come-out roll. Works exactly the same way on the next roll after you place it.
Don’t Come Bet
The opposite of a Come Bet, made after the come-out roll. Wins if the next roll is 2 or 3, loses on 7 or 11, ties on 12, then works against the point.
Odds Bet
Placed behind your Pass Line, Come, Don’t Pass, or Don’t Come bet after a point is established. It’s one of the few bets in the casino with no house edge!
Place Bets
Bet that a specific number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) will be rolled before a 7.
Field Bet
A one-roll bet that wins if 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12 is rolled.
Best Strategies for Craps
Craps offers a wide variety of bets — some very good, and some very bad for players. Here’s how to maximize your chances:
- Stick to the Pass Line and Come Bets: They offer low house edges (around 1.41%).
- Always take the Odds Bet: It has no house edge and boosts your main bets’ payouts.
- Avoid Proposition Bets: These bets (like “any 7”) have very high house edges and should be avoided by serious players.
- Manage Your Bankroll: Set limits and never chase losses — the table can move fast!
- Learn the Flow: Watch a few rounds before jumping in if you’re new. It helps you get comfortable with the rhythm of the game.
Quick Table: Craps Bets, House Edge, and Payouts
| Bet | House Edge | Typical Payout |
|---|---|---|
| Pass Line | 1.41% | 1:1 |
| Don’t Pass Line | 1.36% | 1:1 |
| Come Bet | 1.41% | 1:1 |
| Don’t Come Bet | 1.36% | 1:1 |
| Odds Bet | 0% (No house edge) | Varies by point |
| Place 6 or 8 | 1.52% | 7:6 |
| Field Bet | 5.56% | 1:1 (sometimes 2:1 on 2 or 12) |
| Any 7 (Proposition Bet) | 16.67% | 4:1 |
Tip: Always focus on bets with the lowest house edge to stretch your bankroll and boost your odds of walking away a winner!
Where to Play Craps in BC
- Land-Based Casinos: River Rock Casino Resort, Great Canadian Casino Vancouver, and Grand Villa Casino Burnaby regularly host live craps tables with energetic crowds and great dealers.
- Online Casinos: PlayNow.com offers RNG craps games and live dealer craps. International sites like LeoVegas and Jackpot City also have excellent online craps tables open to BC players.
Conclusion
Craps is a thrilling and social game that rewards players who understand the basic rules and focus on smart bets. Whether you’re shooting the dice at a lively land-based table or betting online, learning a simple strategy and avoiding risky proposition bets can make a huge difference. With low house edges on bets like the Pass Line and Odds, craps offers some of the best winning opportunities in the casino. Ready to roll the dice and feel the excitement? Let the good times roll in BC!