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Craps is one of the most exhilarating games in the casino. Known for its fast pace, social atmosphere, and wide variety of betting options, craps can seem chaotic to newcomers. But behind the shouting and cheers is a game of structure, probabilities, and rhythm.
Whether you're playing at a live table surrounded by enthusiastic players or enjoying a digital version from home, craps offers unmatched energy. This guide covers how the game works, the main types of bets, the odds, and how to approach craps with both confidence and responsibility.
Craps revolves around the roll of two six-sided dice. Players wager on the outcome of these rolls, and the action centers around one shooter at a time—the person currently rolling the dice.
The game begins with the come-out roll, and from that point on, the structure of the round is determined. All players can place bets before the roll, and many wagers depend on whether the shooter wins or loses the round.
Despite the large number of betting options, learning the few core bets makes craps more accessible than it initially appears.
Every round of craps starts with a come-out roll. Here’s how it works:
If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, it’s called a “natural,” and pass line bets win.
If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, it’s called “craps,” and pass line bets lose (12 results in a push on don’t pass).
If the shooter rolls a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes the point.
Once a point is set, the shooter continues rolling until they either:
Roll the point number again (pass line wins), or
Roll a 7 (pass line loses, round ends)
The tension builds with each roll, and the longer the shooter avoids rolling a 7, the more exciting the game becomes.
There are dozens of betting options in craps, but beginners should focus on a few key wagers:
Pass line: wins on 7 or 11 on the come-out, loses on 2, 3, or 12. If a point is set, this bet wins if the point is rolled again before a 7.
Don’t pass line: the opposite of pass line. Wins on 2 or 3, loses on 7 or 11. 12 is a push. Wins if 7 comes before the point is repeated.
Come bet: functions like a pass line bet, but made after the point is established.
Don’t come bet: like don’t pass, but placed after the point.
Odds bets: placed behind pass/don’t pass bets. Pays true odds with zero house edge.
Place bets: betting that a specific number will be rolled before a 7.
Field bets: one-roll bets on specific numbers (2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 12).
Proposition bets: one-roll bets with high payouts but high house edge.
While the table layout can seem overwhelming, most seasoned players stick to pass line, odds, and place bets due to their lower house edge and clear structure.
Craps has some of the best odds in the casino for players who choose the right bets. Here’s how the house edge breaks down:
Pass line: 1.41%
Don’t pass: 1.36%
Taking odds: 0% (true odds, no house advantage)
Place 6 or 8: 1.52%
Field bets: 2.78% on average
Proposition bets: often over 10% or more
Smart players avoid the center of the table where the exotic bets are located. These bets offer flashy payouts but are generally unfavorable over time.
What sets craps apart from other games is its energy. It’s one of the few games where most players are betting on the same outcome. When a shooter is “hot” and keeps rolling without hitting a 7, the entire table rallies together.
Players often celebrate wins with high-fives and cheers. The vibe is electric. But this energy also leads to faster play, and inexperienced players may feel overwhelmed.
Watching a few rounds and starting with small bets is a great way to ease into the rhythm.
Because craps is so interactive, etiquette is essential. Here are a few important practices:
Always toss the dice so they bounce off the far wall of the table.
Don’t hand chips directly to the dealer—place them on the layout.
Avoid reaching over the table during a roll.
Place your bets clearly and on time.
Tip the dealers occasionally, especially after winning streaks.
Respect the shooter and avoid distracting them.
Following these unwritten rules ensures smoother gameplay and earns respect from other players.
Online craps offers the same structure as traditional versions but with added convenience. Whether you’re using a laptop or mobile device, the game layout is digital, and dice rolls are simulated using random number generators (RNGs).
Benefits of online craps include:
Play at your own pace
Lower minimum bets
Practice mode to learn without real money
Automated bet placement
Immediate results with no waiting for other players
For those new to craps, online play offers a less intimidating environment to explore the game.
Live dealer craps has gained popularity among players who enjoy the energy of a physical table but want to play from home. These games feature real dealers in casino studios, streamed via HD video.
Players place bets on a digital interface while watching the dealer roll physical dice. The game flow follows standard rules, and some platforms include live chat and dealer interaction.
Live craps offers an ideal middle ground between online speed and in-person atmosphere.
Craps combines fast action, group energy, and favorable odds in a way no other casino game does. While the table might look complex, the actual gameplay is accessible once you understand the flow. It offers social interaction, multiple layers of betting, and a chance to make smart, low-house-edge wagers.
Whether you’re rolling the dice in a packed casino or tapping a screen in your living room, craps remains one of the most thrilling and rewarding games you can play.
