Key Takeaways

• Craps is a casino dice game where players bet on the outcome of rolls and root for the shooter to hit winning numbers
• The game begins with a come-out roll, where 7 or 11 wins the pass line bet and other numbers may establish a point
• The pass line bet is one of the simplest craps wagers and offers a relatively low house edge compared to many casino bets
• Understanding the basic rules, common bets, and table etiquette can help new players feel more comfortable at the craps table
• Craps is available at many Caesars Rewards destinations, including Caesars Palace, Horseshoe Las Vegas, Harrah's Las Vegas, Flamingo Las Vegas, and Planet Hollywood

What Is Craps?

Craps is one of the most exciting and social games on the casino floor. While the table may look intimidating at first, the basic rules are easier to learn than many beginners expect.

Players place wagers on the outcome of two dice and often cheer for the shooter to roll winning numbers. Whether you're completely new to the game or looking to refresh your understanding of craps, learning the rules, bets, and table etiquette can help you feel more confident when you approach the table.

Understanding the Rules

Craps is played with two standard six-sided dice. The game revolves around two phases: the come-out roll and the point phase. The come-out roll starts a new round. On the come-out roll:

• 7 or 11 wins the pass line bet
• 2, 3, or 12 loses the pass line bet
• 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 becomes the point

Once a point is established, the objective changes. The shooter tries to roll the point number again before rolling a 7.

If the point is rolled first:

• Pass line bets win
• A new round begins

If a 7 is rolled first:

• Pass line bets lose
• The dice move to the next shooter

How a Craps Game Works

A craps table is staffed by four crew members:

• Two dealers
• One stickman
• One boxman

The shooter is the player rolling the dice. Each player at the table has the opportunity to become the shooter as play moves clockwise around the table.

The stickman manages the dice and announces the results of each roll, while the dealers handle wagers and payouts. The boxman oversees the game and helps ensure it runs smoothly.

Because the shooter can continue rolling for an extended period, a single game of craps can last much longer than a typical hand of blackjack or baccarat.

Common Craps Bets

One of the reasons craps can seem intimidating is the variety of wagers available. Fortunately, beginners only need to understand a few of the most common bets to get started.

Pass Line

The pass line bet is one of the most popular wagers in craps.

• Wins on a come-out roll of 7 or 11
• Loses on a come-out roll of 2, 3, or 12
• Wins if the shooter makes the point before rolling a 7

Don't Pass

The don't pass bet is the opposite of the pass line bet. Players who make this wager are betting that the shooter will not make the point before rolling a 7.

Come and Don't Come

These wagers work similarly to pass line and don't pass bets but are placed after a point has already been established.

Field Bet

The field bet is a one-roll wager. It wins when the next roll is:

• 2
• 3
• 4
• 9
• 10
• 11
• 12

All other numbers lose. Additional wagers such as Place Bets, Buy Bets, Lay Bets, and proposition bets may also be available depending on the table.

Basic Craps Strategy

While no strategy can guarantee results, understanding a few fundamentals can help beginners feel more comfortable at the table. Some commonly used guidelines include:

• Start with pass line bets while learning the game
• Consider taking odds when available after a point is established
• Learn a few common wager types before exploring proposition bets
• Understand payout odds before placing a wager
• Set a budget before you begin playing

Many experienced players focus on pass line bets and odds bets because they are among the most straightforward wagers on the table.

Craps Etiquette

Like any casino table game, craps has its own customs and etiquette. Some common guidelines include:

• Handle the dice with one hand only
• Make sure the dice reach the back wall of the table
• Wait until all payouts are complete before placing new wagers
• Clearly communicate your bets to the dealers
• Be respectful to dealers and fellow players

You may also hear players call out "Yo" when an 11 is rolled. While not required, it's one of the traditions that contributes to the unique atmosphere around a craps table.

Tipping dealers is also a common practice at many casinos. Players can tip directly or place dealer bets depending on the table procedures.

Tips for Beginners

Learning craps does not require memorizing every possible wager. These simple tips can help new players get started:

• Focus on the pass line bet first
• Learn how the come-out roll works
• Ask dealers questions if you're unsure about a wager
• Start with smaller bets while gaining experience
• Play responsibly and stick to a budget. Learn about Caesars commitment to responsible gaming

Like all casino games, outcomes are never guaranteed. Understanding the rules, wagers, and etiquette can help players make more informed decisions and enjoy the experience.

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