Admin Among all casino games, few can match the energy and excitement of craps. With players cheering, dice flying across the table, and chips moving rapidly, craps is often one of the liveliest games in any casino. Though its rules may seem intimidating to beginners, craps is actually straightforward once understood and offers some of the best odds in the house.
The Origins of Craps
Craps has a long history that traces back to medieval dice games. It evolved from an English game called Hazard and was later simplified by French settlers in Louisiana during the 18th century. The game became known as “craps,” derived from the French word “crapaud” (meaning “toad”), because players often crouched like toads while rolling dice on the street.
Over time, craps moved from street games to casino floors, eventually becoming one of the most iconic dice games worldwide.
The Basics of Craps
Craps revolves around rolling two dice and betting on the outcome. The player rolling the dice is called the “shooter.” The most important roll is the come-out roll, which starts each round.
- If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, it’s called a “natural,” and bets on the Pass Line win.
- If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, it’s “craps,” and Pass Line bets lose.
- Any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) becomes the point.
Once a point is established, the shooter continues rolling until either:
- The point number is rolled again (win for Pass Line bets), or
- A 7 is rolled (known as “seven out,” ending the round).
Why Craps Is So Popular
The thrill of craps comes from its fast pace and group participation. Unlike many casino games where players compete against each other, craps has a communal atmosphere—most players bet on the shooter, meaning wins and losses are often shared.
The loud cheers and celebrations after a winning roll create a sense of camaraderie, making craps one of the most social games in the casino.
Types of Bets in Craps
Though the craps table may look overwhelming with its many betting options, the main bets are simple:
- Pass Line Bet – Wagering that the shooter will win; one of the best bets with a house edge of only 1.41%.
- Don’t Pass Bet – The opposite of the Pass Line, betting against the shooter.
- Come and Don’t Come Bets – Similar to Pass and Don’t Pass but made after the point is established.
- Odds Bets – Additional bets made after a point, with no house edge.
Beyond these, there are numerous proposition bets, such as betting on specific dice combinations. While exciting, these usually carry higher house edges.
Craps in Online Casinos
Thanks to online platforms, craps is no longer limited to casino floors. Online craps allows players to enjoy the game from their computer or mobile device. Virtual craps features digital dice, while live dealer craps brings real tables to screens via streaming, complete with professional dealers.
This has opened the game to new audiences, including those who may have been intimidated by live casino settings.
Strategies for Craps
Craps is largely a game of chance, but smart betting can reduce risk:
- Stick to Pass Line and Come bets with odds, as they offer the lowest house edge.
- Avoid proposition bets unless playing for fun, as they carry higher risks.
- Manage bankroll carefully to ride out the fast pace of the game.
The Social Side of Craps
More than just a dice game, craps is about atmosphere. The cheers of fellow players, the excitement of a hot streak, and the fast-moving chips all add to the experience. This social element sets craps apart from solitary games like slots or video poker.
The Future of Craps
As online casinos evolve, craps is adapting with features like multiplayer modes, VR tables, and interactive tutorials for beginners. While it may never rival slots in popularity online, craps will always maintain its unique energy in casinos worldwide.
Final Thoughts
Craps is a casino game like no other—fast, exciting, 888new and highly social. Its mix of simple core rules, diverse betting options, and electrifying atmosphere ensures it remains a favorite among gamblers. Whether played in a bustling casino or from home online, craps offers a thrilling experience that captures the spirit of chance and celebration.