Craps: the complete casino dice game guide

Craps is a casino dice game where players bet on the results of two-dice rolls. Some bets have a relatively low house edge (about 1.4% for the Pass Line), but the game remains entirely based on chance.

The basic bet, called the Pass Line, wins if the shooter gets 7 or 11 on the first pitch, or if they reach their "point" before making 7. Craps combines simple rules with a variety of bets and sophisticated strategies.

Important: Craps is a pure game of chance, no strategy guarantees a profit. Always play responsibly.

What is Craps?

Craps is a dice game where multiple players can bet simultaneously on the results of two dice rolls. Unlike roulette or blackjack, the collective aspect and fast pace are among its main characteristics.

Origins and popularity

Craps originates from an ancient English game called Hazard, spread as early as the 17th century. The term “Craps” comes from the French word “crapaud”, linked to the posture adopted by players around the first tables. The game then expanded to Louisiana in the 19th century before becoming a classic of modern casinos.

Why Craps is popular

• Some bets show a lower house edge than in other casino games
• Social game: collective atmosphere and fast pace
• Variety of bets: from simple to complex bets
• Available strategies: enables intelligent betting management
• Relatively simple ground rules

The basic rules of Craps

The shooter and the come-out roll

The shooter rolls two dice. The first pitch is called the “come out” roll. Depending on the result:

• 7 or 11: "Natural" → Pass Line bettors win immediately
• 2, 3 or 12: "Craps" → Pass Line bettors lose immediately
• Any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10): This number becomes the "point"

Establishing the point

Once the point is established, the shooter continues to roll the dice:

• If the shooter gets the point: the "Pass Line" bettors win
• If the shooter gets a 7: "Seven Out" → Pass Line bettors lose
• Any other number: the throw has no effect, the shooter rolls again

Types of bets in Craps

Bets with lower house advantage

Pass Line

• Bet: the shooter will win
• Win: 7 or 11 on the Come Out Roll, or point before 7
• Payment: 1:1
• House edge: 1.41%

Don't Pass

• Bet against Pass Line: shooter will lose
• Win: 2 or 3 on the Come Out Roll, or a 7 before the point
• Payment: 1:1
• House edge: 1.36%

Odds Bet (extra bet)

• Additional bet after the point is established
• Payment: 2:1 (point 4/10), 3:2 (point 5/9), 6:5 (point 6/8)
• House edge: 0%, while remaining dependent on the main bet

Intermediate bets

Come / Don't Come

• Works similar to Pass/Don't Pass, but placed after the Come Out Roll
• Comparable house advantage: 1.41% (Come), 1.36% (Don't Come)

Place Bets

• Bet that a specific number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10) will come out before a 7
• Variable house advantage: 1.4% to 6.7% depending on the number

What are good approaches to Craps?

Some players combine a Pass Line bet with an Odds Bet once the point has been established. This approach is often mentioned because the Pass Line bet has a relatively low house edge (around 1.41%), and the Odds Bet is one of the few bets with no built-in house edge. By combining them, the overall house edge is slightly reduced, without altering the random nature of the game.

Example: combination Pass Line + Odds Bet

1. Place a bet on Pass Line (e.g., €10)
2. Once the point is established, place an Odds Bet (e.g., €20)
3. Let the game unfold

Combined house edge: ~1.2%

For example: Point is 6. You bet €10 in Odds. If the 6 comes out, you win €10 (Pass Line) + €12 (Odds Bet = 6:5 × 10) = €22 total win.

Note: this approach does not eliminate the casino advantage, and does not guarantee any winnings.

Bankroll management

For recreational playing, certain precautionary principles are often mentioned:

●      Define in advance a maximum amount spent on entertainment

●      Set limits for loss and duration

●      Stop when these limits are reached

These practices are part of responsible game management and not a winning strategy.

Essential reminder

Craps is a game of chance. No method, wagering combination or wagering management can suppress the casino advantage or ensure a profit. It must be practiced responsibly and solely as entertainment.

FAQ – Craps