Many players stepping into the exhilarating world of craps are often unaware that shouting “seven” at a craps table is considered bad luck during the game. While superstitions add color to the gambling experience, focusing on strategies and understanding the odds are where your true chances of winning lie.
Understanding the Basics: How Craps Works
Craps is a fast-paced dice game where players bet on the outcome of the roll, or a series of rolls, of a pair of dice. The crux of craps is in its betting complexity and the boisterous atmosphere surrounding the craps table. Players can bet against each other or the bank. Understanding the flow and the lingo is essential before delving into more complex betting strategies.
The Pass Line Bet
The most fundamental bet in craps is the Pass Line Bet. It’s a bet on the shooter to win. If the come-out roll is 7 or 11, the Pass Line bets win. However, if the result is 2, 3, or 12, the Pass Line bets lose. If any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) is rolled, that number becomes the “point”, and the shooter continues to roll until that point number is rolled again, which will result in a win for Pass Line bets, or rolling a 7, which will result in a loss.
Don’t Pass Line Bet
Contrary to the Pass Line Bet, the Don’t Pass Line Bet is essentially betting against the shooter. You win if the come-out roll is 2 or 3 and lose on 7 or 11. Rolling a 12 results in a push — meaning the bet neither wins nor loses. These bets can offer better odds and are worth considering if you seek an alternative approach.
Advanced Betting Strategies
Once you’ve mastered basic bets, understanding advanced bets can offer greater flexibility and winning potential.
The Come Bet
Similar to the Pass Line bet but made after the point is established, the Come Bet allows you to treat the next roll as a come-out roll. Winning or losing follows the same rules as the Pass Line Bet. You can place multiple Come Bets to increase potential winning spots on the table.
The Odds Bet
After a point is established, you can make an additional bet called the Odds Bet, placed behind your initial Pass Line or Come Bet. This bet is unique because it pays at true odds and the house has no edge on this bet. You can maximize your payouts by “taking the odds” if you placed a Pass Line or Come Bet, or by “laying the odds” if you have opted for a Don’t Pass Line Bet.
Money Management: Protecting Your Bankroll
Effective bankroll management is crucial in a fast-paced game like craps.
Set a Loss Limit
Always decide beforehand the maximum amount you are prepared to lose, and stick to it. If you hit your loss limit, step away from the table. This discipline prevents significant losses and ensures you live to roll another day.
Capitalize on Winning Streaks
Increase your betting size incrementally during a winning streak, but do it within reason. Use your winnings to fund riskier bets like Hardways or Single Roll bets, which have higher payouts but are less likely to occur.
Finale Thoughts: Betting with Confidence
Craps is a game of streaks and statistical anomalies. While mastering the variety of bets can significantly improve your gameplay, understanding the probabilities and maintaining a rigorous approach to money management will safeguard your bankroll. Remember, part of the excitement and challenge of craps lies in its unpredictability and social nature. Bet wisely, engage with fellow players, and immerse yourself in the dynamic environment of a craps game for the full experience.
David Harrison stands tall in gambling journalism, marrying his firsthand casino experiences with a deep understanding of betting psychology. His articles transform complex gambling jargon into engaging tales of strategy and chance, making the world of betting accessible and enjoyable. David’s knack for narrative extends beyond print, making him a sought-after speaker on gambling trends and future bets. In the realm of gambling, David is both a scholar and a storyteller, captivating readers and listeners alike.