If you’re planning a casino night and want to bring the high-energy excitement of a Las Vegas casino to your event, craps is a must-have game. Known for its lively atmosphere and fast-paced action, craps is one of the most thrilling casino games you can play. But for beginners, the game can seem intimidating with all the betting options and rules. Don’t worry—we’re here to break it down for you!
In this guide, you’ll learn how to play craps, understand the basic rules, and pick up some tips to improve your chances of winning at your next casino night party.
Understanding the Basics of Craps
Craps is a dice game played on a special table with a unique layout. Players take turns rolling two dice, and the outcome of each roll determines the results of various bets. The person rolling the dice is called the shooter.
The game is played in rounds, with the first roll of a round known as the come-out roll. The shooter aims to establish a point number, which will be the game’s focus until the round ends.
How to Play Craps: Step-by-Step
- Place Your Bet
- Before the shooter rolls, players place their bets. The most common starting bet is on the Pass Line or Don’t Pass Line.
- Roll the Dice (Come-Out Roll)
- If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, Pass Line bets win, and a new round starts.
- If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12 (called “craps”), Pass Line bets lose.
- Any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) becomes the point number.
- Continuing the Round
- If a point number is established, the shooter keeps rolling the dice.
- If the shooter rolls the point number again before rolling a 7, pass-line bets win.
- If a 7 is rolled before the point number, pass-line bets lose, and the round ends.
- Winning and Starting Again
- Once a round ends, a new shooter takes over, and the game resets with a fresh come-out roll.
Popular Bets in Craps
Understanding how to play craps also involves knowing the different types of bets. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Pass Line Bet: A bet that wins if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll and loses if they roll a 2, 3, or 12. If a point is set, the bet wins if the point is rolled again before a 7.
- Don’t Pass Bet: The opposite of the Pass Line bet. It wins if the shooter rolls a 2 or 3 on the come-out roll and loses on 7 or 11.
- Come Bet: Similar to a Pass Line bet but placed after the come-out roll. It establishes a new point for the player making the bet.
- Don’t Come Bet: Similar to the Don’t Pass bet but placed after the come-out roll.
- Odds Bet: An additional bet that can be placed after a point is set. It has no house edge, making it one of the best bets in craps.
- Field Bet: A one-roll bet that wins if a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12 is rolled.
Tips for Winning at Craps
While craps is largely a game of luck, there are strategies to improve your odds and make the game more enjoyable:
- Stick to the Best Bets
- The Pass Line bet with odds and Don’t Pass bet with odds offer the lowest house edge, meaning you have a better chance of winning over time.
- Avoid High House Edge Bets
- Proposition bets (like betting on a specific number to be rolled next) have a much higher house edge, making them riskier choices.
- Manage Your Bankroll
- Set a budget before playing, and don’t chase losses. Knowing when to walk away is key to having a great time without regrets.
- Play with an Experienced Dealer
- If you’re new to the game, having a knowledgeable dealer can make a big difference. A skilled dealer, like those provided by Common Cents Casino Parties, can guide players, explain rules, and keep the game running smoothly.
Bringing the Excitement of Craps to Your Casino Night
Now that you know how to play craps, why not bring the fun to your next event? A casino night party is the perfect way to entertain guests with authentic casino-style gaming. To ensure a seamless experience, consider hiring professional dealers and high-quality casino tables.
Common Cents Casino Parties specializes in providing top-tier casino night experiences, complete with professional dealers, premium-quality tables, and all the excitement of a real casino. Whether you’re hosting a corporate event, fundraiser, or private party, their team can help make your night unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
Craps is one of the most exciting games to play at a casino night party. While it may seem complicated at first, once you understand the basic rules and bets, it becomes an incredibly fun and social game. By following this beginner’s guide, you’ll be ready to roll the dice with confidence at your next event.
If you’re looking to host a top-notch casino night with authentic craps tables and professional dealers, Common Cents Casino Parties has you covered. Get ready to bring the thrill of Las Vegas to your party and make memories that will last a lifetime!