Understanding the Game
Craps is an exhilarating casino game that revolves around the roll of two dice. The most common mistake beginners make is not understanding the range of bets available and the odds associated with them. Players can place a variety of wagers, but focusing on the ‘pass line’ and ‘don’t pass line’ bets initially can significantly reduce the house edge.
Pass Line Bet
This is the most fundamental bet in craps. You win if the come-out roll is a 7 or 11 and lose if it’s 2, 3, or 12. If another number is rolled, that number becomes the ‘point’, and the shooter needs to roll that number again before a 7 for you to win.
Don’t Pass Line Bet
This bet is essentially the opposite of the pass line bet. You win if the come-out roll is 2 or 3, tie if it’s 12, and lose if it’s 7 or 11. If a point is established, you win if a 7 is rolled before the point number.
Strategic Betting
Maximizing Odds Bet
Once a point is established, you can make an additional bet behind your original pass or don’t pass bet. This is known as an ‘odds bet.’ It’s one of the few bets in the casino that has no house edge, as it’s paid at true odds. Always taking or laying the maximum odds will significantly reduce the overall house edge on your total stake.
Controlled Shooting and Dice Setting
While some argue it’s a myth, others practice controlled shooting, which involves setting the dice in a specific way and throwing them with the same motion every time. The goal is to influence the outcome of the roll to reduce the frequency of specific numbers. While mastering this technique requires a lot of practice and is never foolproof, it’s a strategic approach used by some experienced craps players.
Bankroll Management
Effective bankroll management is crucial in craps. Set a loss limit and a win goal. For instance, decide to stop playing if you lose $200 or win $500. Stick to these limits strictly to avoid the pitfalls of chasing losses or gambling away your winnings.
Choosing the Right Table
Opt for tables with minimum bets that are no more than 1/20th of your total bankroll. This allows for fluctuations and reduces the risk of blowing through your fund too quickly. Be mindful of tables that seem overly aggressive in terms of player behavior or betting speeds, as these can lead to rushed decisions and increased losses.
Increase Winning Chances
Playing the Come Bet
After the point has been established, you can make a come bet, which essentially treats the next roll as a new come-out roll. This bet can also take odds, just like the pass line bet, reducing the house edge.
Avoiding Proposition Bets
Proposition bets can be tempting with their high payout odds, but they come with a significantly higher house edge. Avoid these as they are considered sucker bets and stick to more strategic bets like pass line, don’t pass, and come bets with odds.
Practical Takeaways
To effectively increase your winning chances at craps, focus on learning the basic structure and outcomes of the game. Start with simple, low house edge bets and only venture into more complex betting areas once you’re comfortable. Use bankroll management to ensure your gambling sessions are both enjoyable and within your financial means. Experiment with dice setting and controlled shooting if you are looking for an advanced technique, but always be skeptical of its effectiveness and never rely on it as a guaranteed strategy.
