Understanding Craps Bets
Introduction to Craps
Craps is a thrilling and complex dice game that is popular in many casinos around the world. It boasts one of the most exciting atmospheres, often drawing crowds with its high-energy gameplay. The game's primary aim is to predict the outcome of a roll or series of rolls of two dice. Before diving into specific bets, it's essential to understand the layout of a craps table and the roles involved. The table includes areas for various bets, and players take turns rolling the dice, known as the shooter. While the game may seem intimidating initially, knowing the different types of bets can significantly enhance your playing experience and improve your odds.
Pass Line Bet
The Pass Line bet is one of the most common and straightforward bets in craps. It is placed on the 'Pass Line' area of the table before the come-out roll. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, the bet wins, and if they roll a 2, 3, or 12, the bet loses. Any other number rolled becomes the 'point,' and the shooter needs to roll that number again before rolling a 7 to win. The Pass Line bet provides a balanced chance for beginners and is fundamental to understanding more complex bets. With a low house edge, it is popular among both novice and experienced players.
Don't Pass Line Bet
The Don't Pass Line bet is essentially the opposite of the Pass Line bet. Players placing this bet are wagering that the shooter will lose. If the come-out roll is a 2 or 3, it pays out immediately, while a 7 or 11 results in a loss. A roll of 12, however, results in a push, meaning no one wins or loses that round. After a point is established, the bet wins if a 7 is rolled before the point. This bet attracts players who prefer to bet against the shooter and offers a low house edge, similar to the Pass Line wager.
Come Bet
After a point is established, players can choose to place a Come bet. Similar to the Pass Line bet, the Come bet wins if the subsequent roll is a 7 or 11 and loses if it is a 2, 3, or 12. Any other number rolled becomes the Come point, and the bet wins if that number is rolled again before a 7. The Come bet provides continuous betting opportunities and introduces additional excitement during the game, often recommended for players who have grasped the basics and want to increase their betting activity.
Don't Come Bet
The Don't Come bet is the counter to the Come bet and is placed after the point. It wins if the shooter rolls a 2 or 3 and loses on a 7 or 11. A roll of 12 results in a push. If a different number is rolled, that number becomes the Don't Come point, and the bet wins if a 7 appears before that number. This bet is popular among players who prefer to wager against the shooter, providing an intriguing alternative and strategic depth to the craps game.
Odds Bet
The Odds bet is a supplementary wager made after a Pass Line, Don't Pass Line, Come, or Don't Come bet. It offers zero house edge, making it an attractive choice for players. For Pass Line or Come bets, it wins if the point is rolled before a 7, while for Don't Pass and Don't Come bets, it wins if a 7 is rolled before the point. Players can place different multiples of their original bet depending on the casino's rules, enhancing their overall payout potential. The Odds bet is often highly recommended for intermediate players aiming to optimize their betting strategy.
Place Bets
Place bets are another versatile betting option placed on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10). Players can wager on these numbers hitting before a 7 is rolled. The payouts vary based on the number chosen, with numbers like 6 and 8 offering 7:6 odds, and 4 and 10 offering 9:5 odds. Place bets allow for flexible wagering and provide additional opportunities beyond the primary game structure, making them an appealing choice for players seeking to diversify their bets.
Field Bets
The Field bet is a one-roll wager placed on a range of numbers: 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12. If any of these numbers are rolled, the bet wins; otherwise, it loses. Depending on the casino's rules, the 2 and 12 might pay higher (double or triple). The Field bet is simple, offers instant results, and can add a quick thrill to the game. It’s a favored bet for those looking for immediate action and potential quick wins.
Big 6 and Big 8 Bets
Big 6 and Big 8 bets focus on the numbers 6 and 8, respectively. Players aim to see their chosen number rolled before a 7. While the payouts for these bets are even money, they are not always considered favorable due to other bets offering better odds for the same numbers. However, their straightforward nature might appeal to new players looking for simple betting options as they get familiar with the game.
Hardways Bets
Hardways bets are wagers that a specific double (hard 4, hard 6, hard 8, or hard 10) will be rolled before a 7 or a corresponding easy way (non-paired equivalent). For example, a hard 6 is a roll of two threes. These bets offer higher payouts due to their increased difficulty. Hardways bets add an exciting layer to the game, appealing to players who enjoy taking calculated risks for potentially substantial rewards.
Proposition Bets
Proposition bets are located in the center section of the craps table and encompass various one-roll bets, including Any Craps, Any Seven, Eleven, and specific double combinations like Snake Eyes (two ones) or Boxcars (two sixes). These bets are high-risk, high-reward, and the house edge is considerably higher compared to other bets. Proposition bets are suited for seasoned players seeking additional excitement and willing to take on larger risks for the chance of higher payoffs.
Conclusion
Understanding the wide array of craps bets is crucial to enhancing your overall gaming experience and improving your odds. From the straightforward Pass Line and Don't Pass Line bets to more complex propositions and Hardways bets, each bet offers unique risks and rewards. A strategic approach, balanced bankroll management, and familiarity with the basic and advanced bets can turn a daunting game into an exhilarating and potentially profitable venture. As you gain more experience, you’ll find that combining different bets tailored to your style will offer a more enriching craps experience.
