Craps has a reputation for being a complex casino game with a steep learning curve. However, with a basic grasp of the rules, odds, and a few key strategies, both beginners and casual gamblers can have fun and win at the craps table.
This guide will cover craps basics so you can learn how to play and improve your chances of beating the house. We’ll also bust some common myths and misconceptions about craps that keep many rookies away from the action. With the right know-how, you can roll with confidence and maybe even get lucky on your first time out.
Craps Table Layout and Key Personnel
The craps table layout and personnel can look chaotic to a beginner at Spin Palace. However, understanding who’s who and where everything is will help you follow the action when you start playing.
The table has a layout on both sides for players to stand around. In the center are the proposition bets like Any 7, 2, 3, 11, and 12. On either side of the center area are the Pass and Don’t Pass lines where you place the primary wagers. The area farther out contains all other available bets.
Here are the key personnel and their roles:
- Shooters: Players who roll the dice. They take turns in a clockwise order.
- Stickman: Casino employee who controls the dice, calls out rolls, and places and collects bets.
- Boxman: Casino employee who oversees the game and handles buy-ins and payouts.
- Dealers: Manage all the bets for their assigned betting areas.
Knowing who the stickman and boxman are will help you when buying in, placing bets, and getting paid on winners. The dealers handle the action once the dice are in play.
How to Play: Placing Bets and Understanding Payouts
Now let’s get into how to actually play craps. The basic game flow is:
- Players place bets on the table in allowed areas.
- The shooter rolls two six-sided dice.
- Payouts occur based on the roll and bets placed.
- The shooter continues rolling until a “seven out” ends their turn.
- The dice move clockwise to the next shooter.
Here are some key bet types and payouts to know before playing:
- Pass Line Bet – Most popular bet with a payout of 1:1. Win on a natural (7 or 11) on the first roll or by rolling the point number again before a 7. Lose by rolling a 2, 3, or 12 on the first roll or a 7 before repeating the point number.
- Don’t Pass Bet – The opposite of the Pass Line. Win by rolling a 2 or 3 on the first try or 7 before the point number hits again. Lose on natural 7 or 11 on the first roll or if the shooter repeats the point number before rolling a 7. Pays 1:1.
- Come/Don’t Come – Same as Pass/Don’t Pass but can be bet after the first roll. Payout is 1:1.
- Odds Bets – Additional bets made after a Pass or Come point number is established. Payout varies based on point number.
- Place Bets – Can be made on 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10 at any time. Pays 7:6, 7:5, or 9:5 depending on the number.
- Proposition Bets – One roll bets like Any 7, 2, 3, 11, and 12. Payouts vary.
Payout odds are always in the player’s favor on Pass, Come, Place, and Odds bets. Knowing the payouts will help you pick the right wagers.
5 Myths and Misconceptions That Keep Rookies Away
If craps seems intimidating, you’re not alone. Many novice gamblers avoid the game entirely due to these common misconceptions:
Myth: Craps is all luck and you can’t influence outcomes.
Truth: Smart bet selection gives you up to 0.8% house edge.
Myth: You need high rolling bets for worthwhile payouts. Truth: Lower minimums like $5 on Odds bets yield solid payouts.
Myth: Only experienced players can follow the action.
Truth: The basics are easy. Complex bets are optional.
Myth: Craps moves too fast for beginners.
Truth: You control your betting pace. No rush required.
Myth: Craps is too hard to learn. Truth: In 30 minutes you can grasp enough to play confidently.
Don’t let these myths scare you away. Craps rewards patience, smarts, and a bit of study, just like any casino game.
Top 3 Tips to Improve Your Odds
Follow these three tips right away to boost your odds and win more often:
Take the Odds
When a point number is established, always place maximum Odds bets. The house edge on Odds can be as low as 0.2% making it the best bet in the casino.
Avoid Proposition Bets
These flashy one-roll bets seem tempting but have terrible odds. Save your bankroll for better options like Pass Line bets.
Manage Your Money
Have a set gambling budget and stop loss amount before playing. Stick to conservative bets while learning and avoid chasing losses. Proper bankroll management will keep you in the game longer.
Mastering craps doesn’t require intensive study or high stakes wagers. With these simple tips, casual gamblers can enjoy craps and stretch their entertainment budget.
Conclusion
The next time you walk past a rowdy craps table, don’t be intimidated. With a basic grasp of the rules, bets, and strategies, anyone can learn to play and have fun. Use this beginner’s guide to demystify the game and start rolling with confidence.
Craps offers one of the lowest house edges in the casino if you stick to the right bets. You can further tip the odds in your favor by avoiding sucker bets, managing your bankroll, and playing with discipline. Learning proper strategy takes time but will certainly pay off in the long run. Soon you’ll be riding hot streaks and collecting payouts like a pro.