How to play craps: rules, bets and basic tips

Craps is one of the most popular casino games in the United States. It is played with two dice and involves various types of bets on the outcome of each roll. Although it is not available on the regulated online market in Spain, it remains a classic in international casinos and gambling platforms.

Unlike other games such as roulette or blackjack, craps combines several bets in a single round. That’s why understanding the pass line and how the point works is essential before you start playing.

How the craps table works

The craps table is large and features different areas for placing bets. In this dice table game, each space represents a different bet.

In online casinos, the process is simpler: bets are placed by clicking on the screen. In land-based casinos, chips are placed directly on the table and the table is managed by several casino staff members.

The Pass Line: the most important bet

The Pass Line is the game’s basic bet. Before the round begins, players place their chips in this area to roll the dice and win.

The game is divided into two phases:

Come-out roll: if a 7 or 11 is rolled, the bet wins automatically. If a 2, 3 or 12 is rolled, it loses. Any other number establishes the so-called ‘point’.
Point play: the shooter continues to roll the dice until they repeat the point or roll a 7. If the point appears before the 7, the pass line wins.

Basic rules of craps

Craps is always played with two six-sided dice. The result is the total sum of both dice, and all bets are based on that combined number.

In land-based casinos, the game is played with chips, and each table has minimum and maximum betting limits. Furthermore, the shooter’s turn continues until a ‘seven out’ occurs, that is, a 7 is rolled after the point has been established.

Most common bets in craps

Pass Line / Don’t Pass

These are the main bets in the game. The Pass Line wins on a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll and loses on a 2, 3 or 12. The ‘Don’t Pass’ bet works the other way round. Both usually pay out at 1:1.

Come / Don’t Come Bets

These work in a similar way to Pass/Don’t Pass bets, but are placed after the point has been established. They are widely used during the active phase of the round.

Odds Bets

These are additional bets placed once the point has been established. They are considered among the best options for the player due to their low house edge.

Proposition Bets

These are placed on specific numbers such as 2, 3, 11 or 12. They pay out more, but also have a much higher mathematical advantage for the casino.

The role of the shooter in the game

The shooter is the person who rolls the dice in each round of craps. As long as a ‘seven out’ does not occur, they may continue to roll.

The main objective during the point phase is to repeat the number rolled before rolling a 7.

Differences between land-based and online craps

In online craps, the results are generated by an RNG (random number generator). In land-based casinos, the experience is more social and dynamic thanks to the interaction between players and table staff.

If you want to practise before playing in a traditional casino, there are also virtual craps options available on international platforms.

Conclusion

Craps is a casino game with a wide variety of bets and simple rules once you understand how the pass line and the point work.

For beginners, the most recommended bets are usually the pass line and odds, as they offer better odds than proposition bets. As with any game of chance, it is important to manage your budget and always gamble responsibly.