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Craps is an exhilarating casino game that has been captivating gamblers for generations. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned player, this article will walk you through everything you need to know about online craps, from the basic rules to advanced strategies. Let’s roll the dice and get started!
1. Understanding the Basics
In this section, we’ll cover the fundamental rules and components of the game, ensuring that you’re well-equipped to get started.
1.1. The Objective
Your primary goal in real money craps is to predict the outcome of the roll of two six-sided dice. Will the shooter (the person rolling the dice) win or lose? That’s the key question.
1.2. The Pass Line Bet
The Pass Line bet is the most common wager in craps. You win if the come-out roll (the first roll) results in a 7 or 11. If it’s a 2, 3, or 12, you lose. Any other number becomes the “point,” and you continue rolling until you either hit the point number again or roll a 7.
1.3. The Don’t Pass Bet
The Don’t Pass bet is the opposite of the Pass Line bet. You win on the come-out roll with a 2 or 3, while a 7 or 11 means you lose. A 12 is typically a “push,” and any other number becomes the point. You want a 7 to be rolled before the point number to win.
1.4. The Come and Don’t Come Bets
Similar to the Pass Line and Don’t Pass bets, the Come and Don’t Come bets can be made after the point is established. These bets also depend on the next roll’s outcome.
2. The Craps Table
Understanding the layout of the craps table is crucial for both beginners and experts. Here’s a brief overview of the key elements:
2.1. The Pass Line
This is where the game begins, and you place your Pass Line bet here.
2.2. The Don’t Pass Line
Opposite to the Pass Line, the Don’t Pass Line is where you make Don’t Pass bets.
2.3. The Field
The Field is a section where you can bet on specific numbers (2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 12) to roll on the next throw.
2.4. The Come and Don’t Come
These areas are for making Come and Don’t Come bets, respectively.
2.5. The Place Bets
You can place bets on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10) to be rolled before a 7.
3. Advanced Betting Options
Now that you understand the basics, let’s explore more advanced betting options in craps. These bets offer different odds and strategies.
3.1. Odds Bets
Odds bets are a great addition to Pass Line and Don’t Pass bets, offering true odds without a house edge. You can place these bets after the point is established, and they pay out according to the point.
3.2. Place Bets
Place bets are wagers on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10) and can be made at any time during a game. These bets have higher payouts but also come with a greater risk.
3.3. Proposition Bets
Proposition bets are high-risk, high-reward bets placed on a single roll of the dice. These bets can be found in the center of the table and include bets on individual numbers or combinations.
4. Strategies for Success
To increase your chances of winning in online craps, you’ll want to employ effective strategies. Let’s explore some popular ones:
4.1. The Pass Line Strategy
The Pass Line bet is one of the most straightforward and popular strategies. Stick with this bet and use odds bets to increase your potential winnings.
4.2. The Don’t Pass Strategy
The Don’t Pass bet can also be lucrative. It’s the opposite of the Pass Line, and you can use odds bets with it too.
4.3. The Come-Out Roll Strategy
Focus on the come-out roll and use the Pass Line or Don’t Pass bets. If you win on the come-out roll, your odds of winning the whole game increase significantly.
4.4. The 6 and 8 Strategy
Some players prefer to bet on the 6 and 8 as these numbers are more likely to be rolled. This strategy offers consistent, albeit smaller, wins.
5. Online Craps Etiquette
When playing craps in a land-based casino, it’s essential to be aware of etiquette. While online craps may not require the same social interaction, being a respectful and considerate player is still important.
5.1. Be Mindful of Other Players
In a live game, be conscious of the other players and their bets. Avoid disrupting the flow of the game.
5.2. Handling Chips
When placing bets, ensure you use the correct denominations. Don’t throw chips haphazardly; place them gently on the table.
5.3. Tipping the Dealers
Tipping the dealers is a common practice in craps. If you’re on a winning streak, sharing your fortune with the dealers is a nice gesture.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure a successful craps experience, steer clear of these common mistakes:
6.1. Chasing Losses
Don’t try to recover your losses by increasing your bets. Stick to your budget and betting strategy.
6.2. Ignoring the House Edge
Understand that the house always has an edge in craps. It’s a game of chance, so play responsibly.
6.3. Betting Without a Strategy
Having a strategy in place, whether it’s the Pass Line or another approach, is vital. Don’t rely on random bets.
7. Practice Makes Perfect
To become a skilled craps player, practice is essential. Many online casinos offer free craps games for you to hone your skills.
Conclusion
Online craps is an exciting game of chance with various betting options and strategies. From understanding the basic rules to employing advanced tactics, this guide has covered it all. Remember to play responsibly and enjoy the thrill of the game at reputable online casinos. May the dice be ever in your favor!
