Craps for Beginners: Tips to Get You Started

If you've ever walked through a casino, you've likely heard the energetic cheers coming from the craps table. It's a game that's packed with excitement but also can be quite intimidating for newcomers. Fear not! This beginner-friendly guide will walk you through the basics of craps, covering betting options, table etiquette, and simple strategies to get you started.

Understanding the Basics

The craps table might seem overwhelming at first glance, but once you understand the layout and the flow of the game, it's much easier to manage. The primary objective in craps is to predict the outcome of the roll of the dice.

The goal is to demystify the game and make it accessible for everyone.

The Dice and the Table

A standard craps table features various sections for different types of bets. It can accommodate up to 20 players and uses two six-sided dice.

The layout is designed to offer multiple betting options, which we'll explore next.

The Shooter and the Roll

Every craps game begins with the 'come-out roll.' The shooter—the player rolling the dice—attempts to establish a 'point.' If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, they win. Rolling a 2, 3, or 12 results in a loss, known as 'crapping out.' Any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) becomes the point, and the game continues.

The goal now is to roll the point number again before rolling a 7.

Basic Betting Options

To make it simple for beginners, we’ll focus on a few core betting types:

• Pass Line Bet: This bet wins if the come-out roll is a 7 or 11 and loses if it's a 2, 3, or 12.
• Don't Pass Line Bet: Essentially the opposite of the Pass Line Bet; it wins if the come-out roll is a 2 or 3 and loses with a 7 or 11. A roll of 12 results in a tie.
• Come Bet: Similar to the Pass Line Bet but can be placed any time after the come-out roll. The next roll becomes the come-out roll for your Come Bet.
• Don't Come Bet: Like the Don't Pass Line Bet, but can be placed at any time during the game.

Focusing on these basic bets will make your initial craps experience much more enjoyable and less complicated.

Mastering Table Etiquette

Craps has its own unique set of unwritten rules and etiquette that new players should be aware of. Knowing these can make you feel more comfortable at the table and keep the game running smoothly.

Handling the Dice

The shooter must use only one hand to handle the dice and must ensure both dice hit the opposite wall of the table.

Placing Bets

Always place your chips on the table instead of handing them directly to the dealer. This keeps the game flowing and helps maintain the casino's integrity.

Knowing the basic etiquette will make you more confident and enhance your experience.

Cheering and Celebrating

It's perfectly acceptable to cheer when you're winning, but always be respectful to other players, especially if they're having a rough game.

Simple Strategies for Beginners

While craps is largely a game of chance, some strategies can improve your odds and make the game more enjoyable.

Stick to the Basics

Betting on the Pass Line and Come Bets are statistically favorable for beginners. They offer nearly a 50-50 chance of winning and are straightforward to understand.

Manage Your Bankroll

Set a budget before you start playing and stick to it. This helps you manage your money and ensures you don't wager more than you can afford to lose.

The key to enjoying craps is not just winning, but playing responsibly.

Avoid Prop Bets

Prop bets might offer high payouts, but they also come with high risk. It's best to avoid these until you're more experienced.

Ready to Roll?

Now that you have a basic understanding of craps, it's time to hit the table with confidence. Remember, the most important part is to enjoy the game and play responsibly.

For those who want to dive deeper into strategies and tips, I recommend reading Craps: A Winning Strategy by Victor H. Royer.

So, are you ready to roll the dice? Whether you're playing online or at a physical casino, craps can be an exhilarating experience when you know the basics. Just keep practicing, and you'll be shouting 'winner' in no time!