If you’re new to the world of online craps, the tables can look intimidating. All those numbers, the different bets, the lingo – it’s a lot to take in. But with some key tips in your back pocket, you can set yourself up for success at Stakes Casino. This beginner’s guide will walk you through the basics so you can start rolling the dice with confidence.
Understand the Table Layout
Before you place any bets, get familiar with the craps table layout. Here are the key sections:
- Pass Line – The most common bet, which pays even money. You’re betting that the shooter will make their point number.
- Don’t Pass Line – The opposite of the Pass Line. You’re betting the shooter won’t make their point.
- Come/Don’t Come – Similar to the Pass/Don’t Pass, but you can bet after the come out roll.
- Odds – Allow you to make additional bets to support the Pass/Come bets. This offers higher payouts.
- Proposition Bets – These center bets offer higher rewards but have a higher house edge. Good for more advanced players.
Know the Phases of Play
A craps game is played in rounds that contain two phases – the come out roll and the point roll:
- Come Out Roll – The shooter throws the two dice. If they roll a 7 or 11 it’s an automatic win for Pass Line bets. If it’s 2,3, or 12, Pass Line bets lose. Any other number becomes the point number.
- Point Roll – The shooter continues to roll until they hit the point number from the come out roll again, which pays out, or they roll a 7, which loses.
Understand the Odds and Payouts
While craps looks complex, at its core it’s a simple game of numbers. Understanding the probabilities and payouts of each bet will give you an edge. Here are some of the most common:
- Pass Line Bet – Pays even money (1:1)
- Odds on Pass Line – Pays 2:1, 3:2, or 6:5 depending on point number
- Field Bet – Pays even money for most numbers, higher for 2 and 12
- Big 6/8 – Pays even money
- Hardways – Pay 7:1 or 9:1 depending on the hardways roll
Getting the inside scoop on the true odds and house edge for each wager will guide your betting strategy.
Start Small
It’s tempting to walk up to a table and throw down a huge bet to try and hit it big. But restraint is key for beginners. Start by playing the Pass Line and backing it up with 1x or 2x odds to get your feet wet. Place smaller proposition bets once you’ve built some winnings. Conservative betting takes patience, but it pays off.
Use a Betting System
Betting systems impose discipline so you’re not just randomly throwing chips around. Two accessible systems to consider:
- The Parlay – Bet your winnings from one roll onto the next. Compounding earnings can quickly add up.
- The Martingale – Double your bet after each loss to recoup money, then revert to base bet after a win.
These systems control your bankroll and help you leverage winning streaks.
Learn the Lingo
Every casino game has its own language. Here are some key craps terms for newbies:
- Natural – Rolling a 7 or 11 on the come out
- Seven Out – When the shooter rolls a 7, losing the round
- Point Number – The number rolled on the come out that must be rolled again before a 7
- Cold Table – When shooters frequently seven out
- Hot Shooter – Someone on a long winning roll
Knowing the shorthand will make conversations at the table second nature. You’ll talk the talk in no time.
Roll with Confidence
There’s no denying that craps has a steep learning curve. But with some fundamental knowledge under your belt, you can step up to the table with poise – whether online or in-person. Remember to start small, leverage odds to your advantage, and use discipline around bankroll management. Before long, you’ll be riding winning streaks like a pro.
