A Guide to Understanding How to Play Casino Craps

January 14, 2026

Understanding the Basics of Craps

Craps is a popular casino game that involves betting on the outcome of rolling two dice. The game has its roots in ancient cultures, with the modern version emerging in the United States in the late 19th century. Craps is characterized by a kiwitreasures unique table layout and set of rules, making it distinct from other casino games like roulette or blackjack.

How to Play Casino Craps

The basic objective of craps is for players to predict the outcome of rolling two dice. The game involves several stages: the come-out roll, point establishment, and continuous bets. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to play:

  1. Come-Out Roll : The first stage begins with a player called the "shooter" rolling one die (the come-out roll). If the shooter rolls 7 or 11, they win immediately. Conversely, if they roll 2, 3, or 12, it’s an instant loss.
  2. Point Establishment : When the shooter fails to hit 7 or 11 in the first two rounds, a point is established by determining which number (other than 2, 3, or 12) was rolled. This sets up the next phase of betting.
  3. Continuous Bets : In this stage, players can place bets on various outcomes such as pass line (betting with the shooter), don’t pass (against the shooter), come (further defined by which number is rolled initially in that specific round of play) or any of several other wagers.

Understanding Craps Betting

Craps betting involves placing chips at different positions around the table. Each position has its unique odds, payoffs, and requirements for winning. The most common bets include:

  • Pass Line Bet : A bet made with a shooter on their first roll (the "come-out"). If they roll 7 or 11, the pass line bet wins.
  • Don’t Pass Bet : A bet against the shooter’s first roll. This is often preferred by those who want to oppose the odds of winning in favor of others.
  • Come Bet : A type of proposition that can be placed at any time after the come-out (e.g., 6, 8) and involves betting on when a given number will appear for the first time as the next roll.

Understanding Odds and Probabilities

Craps tables feature different odds corresponding to each bet. Understanding these probabilities is essential for making informed decisions about which bets are most likely to produce winnings:

  • Natural : Rolls of 7 or 11 have higher chances, approximately 16.67% each.
  • Point Established : A point becomes a target, as both numbers can occur but with an average probability near 45%.

Popular Craps Variations

Over the years, various craps variants emerged to offer exciting twists and added complexity:

  • French Craps (Crapoulet) : French influence in North America has led to regional adaptations featuring slightly modified rules.
  • Savannah Craps : Features no "7" numbers as winning passes for that round of play.

Table Etiquette and Rules

The casino’s atmosphere, staff conduct, player actions all have effects on experience. Pay attention when you roll dice so the dealer can verify and record your wins accurately:

  1. Calling Out Bets : The person next in line (waiting to throw) usually will alert with: ‘I’m up!’
  2. Rolling a Win or Loss : If an initial game has concluded by either achieving all previous objectives within 20 rolls or having reached the final established number while following their choice for that point, congratulations!