Setup of a live casino craps table

Brick-and-mortar casinos typically operate with a team of three to four dealers who work together to manage the craps tables. This team functions as a unified unit. Within the group, one dealer is assigned the task of handling the stick, which involves moving the dice and declaring the results of each roll; this dealer is commonly referred to as the “Stickman.” Alongside the two dealers, it is common to find a “Boxman” at some tables. The Boxman’s responsibilities encompass supervising the chips, dealers, and bets.

Furthermore, individuals have the opportunity to encounter bubble craps games that showcase electronic consoles containing oversized dice enclosed in a dome. Some casinos provide “mini craps” tables that are overseen by two dealers. Additionally, there is another variation called “crapless craps” which incorporates unique rules.

Chip racks are strategically positioned throughout the table. While a craps table can technically accommodate up to 20 players, the game is more entertaining and engaging with a smaller group of five to eight participants. Each player will have the chance to take on the role of the “shooter” during their turn, but it is not obligatory.

Two betting rounds: how a craps game works

To understand the layout of the craps table and the meaning of different terms, it is crucial to acquaint oneself with the two separate phases that take place in every game of craps.

Each game begins when a new player takes possession of the dice and initiates the “come out” roll/round. The felt displays the words “Pass line” and “Don’t Pass bar,” which indicate the crucial bets at the start of the game. The subsequent guidelines outline the rules:

• When placing a Pass Line Bet, there are certain results to consider. If the dice roll results in a 2, 3, or 12, the bet is considered lost. Conversely, if a 7 or 11 is rolled, the bet is deemed a win. On the other hand, if any of the numbers 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 are rolled, they establish a “point” for the next game.
• The bets referred to as “Don’t Pass” have distinct results: a victory when the rolled numbers are 2, 3, or 12, and a defeat when the rolled numbers are 7 or 11. However, when any other numbers are rolled, they establish a “point” for the following game.

In a live casino, most players choose to bet on the pass line, which occupies a larger portion of the playing surface. This creates a collective experience for everyone at the table, with wins and losses being shared, and contributes to the lively atmosphere with frequent cheers and shouts at craps tables. Even though the “don’t pass” option offers slightly better odds, players often avoid it to avoid going against the popular choice.

Points betting round

After establishing a point, the dealers will take turns rotating a disc to signal “on”. Following that, they will make a proper record of the rolled number, which can be either 2, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10.

There has been a modification in the game rules. Players will no longer stop after hitting a point; instead, they will keep rolling until a 7 is rolled. Moreover, players now have the option to place bets on specific numbers and whenever the point is hit, all pass line bets will be paid out. To accommodate this, each craps table will have a row of numbers where bets can be placed to indicate the position of each player around the table.

In the event that a 7 is rolled, the dice will be passed on to the following player, and a new come-out roll will begin.

Side bets

By comprehending the two betting rounds, one can grasp the primary elements of the craps table layout. However, it is important to note that there are several other sections on the felt that should not be overlooked. These sections include dice images and extra designations like “hard ways,” “any craps,” and “any 7.”

Side bets, which are distinct from the main game, are referred to as such. They offer the potential to generate significant winnings. Nevertheless, it is crucial to note that these side bets usually possess a higher house edge in comparison to the main game, often by a substantial amount. It is feasible to make certain side bets at any betting round, while others are specifically tailored for the points round.

Beginners guide to understanding the craps table: full list of bets

During the come-out betting round on a casino craps table, the wagers closest to the players take place. As the game progresses to the point round, the bets are positioned farther away. However, field and prop bets are placed in the middle regardless.

The following wagers are listed below, along with their corresponding depiction on the standard craps betting layout:

• The Pass Line, which is widely preferred for the first round, is represented by an “L” shaped section on either side of the table.
• Located within the pass line section, the “Don’t Pass Bar” or “Line” provides more advantageous odds during the come out round, yet it lacks widespread popularity among players.
• If you engage in a game of craps, you will come across the “Big 6” or “Big 8” bets placed on diagonal corners, intersecting the don’t pass bar. If the number you choose to bet on is rolled before a 7, you will emerge victorious and receive a payout equal to your initial wager.
• Bets placed on the upcoming roll and labeled as “Field Bets” are easily distinguishable by the bold or colored highlighting of the numbers 2 and 12. Additionally, the term “Field” is displayed alongside the numbers 3, 4, 9, 10, or 11. These bets yield a 2-1 payout for rolling a 2 or a 12, while the specified numbers offer a 1-to-1 payout. However, if the roll results in a 5, 6, 7, or 8, these bets will result in a loss.
• The Hard Ways Bets showcase dice showing identical numbers, providing the opportunity for significant payouts. However, these bets also come with a disadvantageous house advantage. When rolling a pair of 4-4 or 5-5, landing on a 4 or 10 results in a payout of 7:1. Similarly, if you roll a pair and get a 6 or 8, you receive a 9:1 payout.
• Adjacent to the hard ways on the felt are Prop Bets, which are single roll bets. These wagers include any 7, any craps (2, 3, or 12), and the “boxcar” (12).
• Betting Options: In the game, there is a group of numbers used in the point round, which are 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10. You have the opportunity to place a bet on a specific number, predicting that it will be rolled before a 7, which indicates the end of this stage. The payouts for each number vary, with the odds being 7:6 for a 6 or 8, 7:5 for a 5 or 9, and 9:5 for a 4 or 10. Alternatively, you can choose the “place lose” option, where you win if a 7 is rolled before your chosen number.

Experienced players are given the choice to “buy” or put a number while also being able to place other types of bets such as place win/lose. These bets require a small commission but offer slightly better odds. Another advanced betting alternative, called the “Come” bet, can be placed once a point has already been established and functions similar to the pass/don’t pass bet.

To sum up, during the point round, you can place novelty bets which aim to achieve certain outcomes. For instance, you can try to roll a 2 and 12 before rolling a 7, often called “tall and small.” Another option is to roll every number except 7 before the round ends, commonly known as “even fall.”

Play online craps in practice games or for real money

If you live in a state with legal casinos, online craps games can be a great way to familiarize yourself with different bets before going to a brick-and-mortar casino. The variety of games offered by casinos is constantly expanding, and soon, you will be able to choose between playing craps online with real money or in a demo/practice mode. Some states, like West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, have already passed laws and established online casinos.

Understanding craps tables for beginners

Breaking down the craps game into separate betting rounds is recommended in order to better understand the table arrangement, as the initial encounter may appear complex due to the involved betting.

At the start of the game, players are given the choice to bet on the pass line or the don’t pass line. They also have the option to wager on specific single numbers or prop style bets. As the game progresses to the point round, where a specific number is established, players can bet on individual numbers and novelty bets that require a certain group of numbers to be rolled before a 7 shows up.

Craps is widely recognized as the most thrilling game in many live casinos due to its dynamic nature. It offers a sense of camaraderie as every player celebrates a successful roll. Once you fully understand the game’s rounds and become familiar with the terminology used on the table, you will be able to fully immerse yourself in the excitement every time you step foot in a live casino.