Craps is one of the most exciting and fast-paced games found in both land-based and online casinos. With its unique combination of strategy, luck, and social interaction, it has become a favorite among both novice and experienced gamblers. Understanding the rules of online craps games is essential to making the most of this thrilling game. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started, learning the basics and mastering the strategies can significantly improve your chances of success.
Understanding the Basic Rules of Online Craps
Online craps follows the same general principles as the version played in physical casinos. The game revolves around betting on the outcome of a roll or series of rolls of a pair of dice. The dice are rolled by the shooter, who can be either the player or the dealer, depending on the platform’s setup. The goal is to predict the outcome of these rolls and place the right bets accordingly.
The First Roll: The Come-Out Roll
The first roll in a round of craps is called the come-out roll. This is when the shooter rolls the dice for the first time. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, this is known as a natural, and players who bet on the Pass Line win. However, if the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, it’s called a craps roll, and players who bet on the Don’t Pass Line win. If any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) is rolled, this becomes the point number, and the round continues.
The Point Phase
Once a point number is established, the shooter aims to roll the point number again before rolling a 7. If the point number is rolled, players who bet on the Pass Line win, and the game continues. However, if a 7 is rolled before the point number, the shooter “craps out,” and players who bet on the Don’t Pass Line win. At this stage, the shooter’s turn is over, and a new come-out roll begins.
Common Bets in Online Craps
There are several types of bets that players can place during an online craps game. Some of these bets are more straightforward, while others require a deeper understanding of the game’s mechanics. Here’s an overview of the most common bets in online craps.
Pass Line Bet
The Pass Line Bet is one of the most popular and simple bets in craps. It’s made before the come-out roll, and it wins if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, while it loses if the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12. If a point number is established, the bet wins if the point is rolled again before a 7.
Don’t Pass Line Bet
The Don’t Pass Line Bet is essentially the opposite of the Pass Line bet. Players who make this bet are betting that the shooter will roll a 2 or 3 on the come-out roll or that the point number will be rolled before a 7. A roll of 12 is considered a push, meaning the bet neither wins nor loses.
Come Bet
The Come Bet is similar to the Pass Line Bet, but it’s made after the come-out roll. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, the Come Bet wins. If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, it loses. If another number is rolled, that becomes the point for the Come Bet, and players must wait for that number to be rolled again before a 7 to win.
Don’t Come Bet
The Don’t Come Bet is the opposite of the Come Bet. It’s placed after the come-out roll and wins if a 2 or 3 is rolled. If a 7 or 11 is rolled, the bet loses. If another number is rolled, that becomes the point for the Don’t Come Bet, and the player must wait for a 7 to be rolled before the point number.
Odds Bet
Once a point has been established, players can place an Odds Bet, which is an additional wager placed behind their initial Pass Line or Don’t Pass Line Bet. This is a separate bet that has no house edge and is paid at true odds. The payout for an Odds Bet depends on the point number: 2 to 1 for a point of 4 or 10, 3 to 2 for a point of 5 or 9, and 6 to 5 for a point of 6 or 8.
Strategies for Playing Online Craps
Craps is a game of both luck and strategy. While you can’t control the dice, using the right betting strategy can improve your chances of winning. Here are some popular strategies for online craps:
Stick to the Pass Line and Come Bets
The simplest and most effective strategy for beginners is to stick to Pass Line and Come Bets. These bets have a relatively low house edge, meaning they offer better odds for the player compared to more complex bets. By sticking to these straightforward bets, players can keep the game enjoyable without risking too much.
Take Advantage of the Odds Bet
After establishing a point, placing an Odds Bet is one of the best moves a player can make. This bet has no house edge and is paid at true odds, meaning it offers a better return than many other bets in the game. The key is to understand when to place the Odds Bet and make sure you are familiar with the different payouts based on the point number.
Avoid Proposition Bets
While proposition bets may seem enticing due to their high payouts, they come with a much higher house edge. Bets like Any 7, Hardways, and Yo 11 may offer large payouts, but they also have a significantly higher risk. For beginners, it’s better to avoid these bets unless you’re comfortable with higher-risk gambling.
Benefits of Playing Online Casino Games
Playing online casino games, including craps, offers several benefits. One of the primary advantages is convenience. Players can enjoy their favorite games from the comfort of their homes without needing to travel to a land-based casino. Online platforms are also accessible 24/7, allowing players to enjoy games whenever they want.
Another benefit of online gaming is the variety of games available. Many online casinos offer multiple variations of craps, including different bet types and payout options, giving players more choices and control over their gaming experience.
Additionally, online casinos offer bonuses and promotions that can boost a player’s bankroll. Welcome bonuses, free spins, and loyalty rewards are common offerings that provide players with extra chances to win without increasing their wagers.
Trends in Online Craps and Casino Games
The online casino industry is rapidly evolving, and several trends are shaping the way players experience games like craps. Live dealer games are one of the most popular trends, offering players a more immersive and interactive experience by allowing them to play craps with a real dealer via video stream.
Mobile gaming is another significant trend, as more players turn to smartphones and tablets for their casino entertainment. Mobile-optimized craps games make it easy for players to enjoy their favorite games on the go, with no compromise in quality or gameplay.
Finally, gambling sites not on gamstop are gaining traction among players who want fewer restrictions. These casinos are not part of the UK’s self-exclusion scheme and offer greater freedom for players. Many sites not on gamstop provide generous bonuses, larger bet limits, and access to a wide range of craps variants. If you are interested in exploring these options, look for gambling sites not on gamstop that are licensed and regulated, ensuring a safe and secure environment for your gaming.
Choosing the Right Online Craps Platform
When choosing an online craps platform, there are a few key factors to consider. Ensure the platform is licensed and regulated by a reputable authority, which guarantees fair play and secure transactions. Look for a site with responsive customer support and a variety of payment options to ensure smooth deposits and withdrawals.
The user interface and overall game selection are also important. Choose a platform that offers a good variety of online craps games, including different bet options and multiplayer tables for a more social experience. Reading reviews and checking for licensing information is essential to ensure you’re selecting a trusted platform.
Understanding the rules for online craps games is key to maximizing your enjoyment and success. By learning the basic rules, common bets, and strategies, you can make smarter decisions and improve your chances of winning. Online craps offers a fast-paced, thrilling experience, and with the right knowledge, you can navigate the game with confidence.
