Craps Rules: Understanding the Dice Game

Craps is a popular casino dice game where players bet on the outcomes of a pair of dice rolls. It is known for its energetic table atmosphere and relatively simple rules at its core, despite the complex appearance of the betting layout.

Core Gameplay: The Come Out Roll

The game begins with a "Come Out Roll," performed by a designated player known as the "shooter." Players typically place their initial wagers on the Pass Line, betting that the shooter will succeed. The outcomes of this first roll determine the next phase:

• Natural Win: If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, Pass Line bets win immediately.
• Craps: If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, Pass Line bets lose immediately.
• Point Established: If the shooter rolls a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes the "Point."

Resolving the Point

Once a Point is established, the shooter continues to roll the dice. The goal for Pass Line bettors is for the shooter to roll the established Point number again before rolling a 7. The round concludes when one of these outcomes occurs:

• Win: The shooter rolls the Point number again, and Pass Line bets win.
• Seven Out: The shooter rolls a 7 before hitting the Point, and Pass Line bets lose. The dice then pass to a new shooter.

The Odds Bet Advantage

After a Point is set, players can place an additional wager called the "Odds Bet." This bet is placed behind the original Pass Line wager and is unique because it pays true mathematical odds with zero house edge, making it one of the most advantageous bets available in the casino.