Have you ever walked through a Las Vegas casino and heard the roar of the crowd surrounding a craps table? The shouts of excitement, the clatter of dice, and the palpable energy can be both intimidating and incredibly alluring. Craps, the most dynamic and social game in any casino, promises a thrilling experience, coupled with the chance to win big. But beneath the apparent complexity lies a relatively straightforward game of chance. This guide will demystify craps and equip you with the knowledge to confidently approach a Las Vegas craps table, understand the game, and potentially walk away a winner.
Deciphering the Dance: Understanding the Basics of Craps
Craps, a game steeped in history and lore, has its roots in an older English game called Hazard. Over time, it evolved and made its way to America, eventually becoming a casino staple. The fundamental premise of craps is simple: players wager on the outcome of a pair of dice. However, the table layout and variety of bets can seem overwhelming at first glance. Don’t let that deter you!
The craps table, with its intricate markings and seemingly endless betting options, is where the action unfolds. Understanding its layout is crucial to navigating the game. You’ll find sections like the Pass Line, Don’t Pass Line, Come, Don’t Come, Field, and an array of proposition bets. These sections represent different types of wagers on the outcome of the dice rolls.
Like any specialized field, craps has its own unique vocabulary. Familiarizing yourself with key terms will significantly enhance your understanding and enjoyment. The “shooter” is the person rolling the dice. The “point” is a number established after the initial roll. The “come-out roll” is the first roll of the dice in a betting round. Understanding these terms allows you to actively participate in the game and follow the action with ease.
Navigating the Numbers: Exploring Common Craps Bets
The Pass Line bet is perhaps the most fundamental wager in craps. You win if the come-out roll results in a seven or eleven. You lose if the come-out roll results in a two, three, or twelve. If any other number (four, five, six, eight, nine, or ten) is rolled, that number becomes the “point.” The shooter then continues to roll until they either roll the point again (winning the Pass Line bet) or roll a seven (losing the Pass Line bet). The house edge on the Pass Line bet is relatively low, making it a popular choice for beginners.
The Don’t Pass Line bet is essentially the opposite of the Pass Line. You win if the come-out roll is a two or three. You lose if the come-out roll is a seven or eleven. A roll of twelve is typically a “push” or tie. If a point is established, you win if the shooter rolls a seven before rolling the point again. The house edge on the Don’t Pass Line is also relatively low.
Come and Don’t Come bets function similarly to Pass and Don’t Pass bets, but they are made *after* a point has already been established. Once you place a come bet, the next roll of the dice becomes the “come-out roll” for your come bet. The rules for winning and losing are identical to the Pass Line bet, but applied to your come bet.
Odds bets are arguably the smartest wagers you can make at the craps table. After a point has been established on the Pass Line or Come bet, you can place an additional wager “taking odds” that the point will be rolled before a seven. These bets pay out at true odds, meaning the house has no edge. The amount you can bet on the odds depends on the casino’s rules. Taking advantage of odds bets significantly reduces the overall house edge.
Place bets are wagers that a specific number (four, five, six, eight, nine, or ten) will be rolled before a seven. These bets are often tempting because they offer the potential for quick payouts.
Proposition bets, located in the center of the craps table, are single-roll wagers with high payouts. These bets, such as “Any Seven” or “Any Craps,” are alluring because they offer the prospect of instant gratification. However, these bets come with a significantly higher house edge compared to the Pass Line, Don’t Pass Line, Come, and Don’t Come bets. It’s generally advisable for beginners, or those focused on a long-term strategy, to avoid proposition bets.
The Rhythm of the Game: Following the Flow of a Craps Game
The come-out roll kicks off each round of craps. If the shooter rolls a seven or eleven on the come-out roll when someone has placed a pass line bet, everyone with pass line bets wins immediately. If the shooter rolls a two, three, or twelve, everyone loses immediately. If the shooter rolls a four, five, six, eight, nine, or ten, that number becomes the point.
Once a point is established, the shooter continues to roll the dice until they either roll the point again (winning the Pass Line bet) or roll a seven (losing the Pass Line bet). If the shooter rolls the point, the Pass Line bets win, and a new round begins with a new come-out roll. If the shooter rolls a seven, the Pass Line bets lose, the shooter “sevens out,” and the dice are passed to the next player.
Dealers manage the payouts and collect losing bets. They work efficiently to keep the game flowing smoothly. After each roll, winning bets are paid out, and losing bets are collected. The game continues until the shooter sevens out, or a new shooter takes over.
Crafting Your Approach: Strategy and Tips for Vegas Craps
A fundamental strategy for craps involves sticking to the basic bets like Pass/Don’t Pass with odds. Taking advantage of the odds bet is the most effective way to lower the house edge and increase your chances of winning. As discussed earlier, avoiding proposition bets, with their high house edge, is an integral part of smart craps gameplay.
Successful craps play requires diligent bankroll management. Before you approach the table, determine the amount you are willing to lose. Once that limit is reached, walk away. Set win limits for your trip or each day, and when you win that amount, walk away. Determine the appropriate bet size based on your bankroll and avoid betting large percentages of your bankroll on any single roll.
Good craps etiquette will enhance your experience and the experience of others at the table. Place your bets in the designated areas and make sure to do so before the dice are thrown. Avoid reaching over the table to place bets. If you are unsure about anything, do not be afraid to ask the dealers. They are there to help you.
For those planning a Vegas trip, remember that different casinos offer different craps experiences. Downtown Las Vegas often features casinos with lower minimum bets, making it accessible for beginners. Also, be aware of the table limits before sitting down. Some casinos are renowned for their energetic craps atmospheres, such as Binion’s.
Avoiding Pitfalls: Common Mistakes to Steer Clear Of
One frequent mistake is wagering too much early on. Starting with smaller bets allows you to learn the game and familiarize yourself with the table dynamics without risking a significant portion of your bankroll.
Another common pitfall is chasing losses. Resist the urge to increase your bets in an attempt to recoup lost money. This often leads to further losses and can quickly deplete your bankroll.
A key error is failing to grasp the true odds of the game. Before placing a bet, understand the probability of winning and the associated payout. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions and avoid sucker bets.
Finally, resist the urge to get carried away by the excitement and act irrationally. Maintain a calm and rational approach, sticking to your predetermined strategy and bankroll management plan.
Rolling the Dice: A Final Thought
Craps is a casino game that blends excitement, strategy, and a bit of luck. While its apparent complexity can be daunting, understanding the basics and employing a smart strategy can significantly enhance your chances of success. By focusing on fundamental bets, managing your bankroll wisely, and avoiding common mistakes, you can confidently approach a Las Vegas craps table and participate in one of the most thrilling games in the casino. Remember to gamble responsibly, set limits, and most importantly, have fun! The craps table in Vegas awaits, and with the right knowledge, you’re ready to roll.
