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How to play Craps

How to play Craps

The thrill of the craps table, once exclusive to land-based casinos, is now available online. Craps remains one of the most exciting and fast-paced casino games, offering players some of the best odds in the industry. The energy of a hot streak, the strategic betting options, and the potential for big wins make it a must-try for any casino enthusiast.

For newcomers, the rules and betting choices can seem overwhelming, but mastering the game is easier than it looks. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of online craps, from basic bets to advanced strategies, ensuring you play with confidence.

Whether you're a seasoned player looking to refine your approach or a beginner seeking to learn the ropes, this guide will help you navigate the online craps experience and make the most of your gameplay.

Everett Campbell
Written by Everett Campbell - Updated 2025-02-27 - Reading time: 5 minutes.

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Understanding Online Craps: A Beginner's Guide

Online craps is a dynamic dice game that offers excitement and a variety of betting options. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of how to play, strategies to enhance your gameplay, and key insights to help Canadian players get started.

Getting Started with Online Craps

Each game features a 'shooter'—a player who rolls the dice. In online versions, this role is simulated, but the betting process remains interactive. Players place bets on the 'pass line' or 'don't pass line' before the initial roll, known as the 'come-out roll'.

The digital interface simplifies the betting process, making it accessible for beginners. However, understanding the table layout and bet types is crucial for a rewarding experience.

Understanding the Craps Table Layout

The craps table consists of various betting areas. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Pass Line – The main betting area where players wager on the shooter winning.
  • Don't Pass Line – The opposite of the pass line bet, betting against the shooter.
  • Come and Don't Come – Bets that function similarly to the pass and don’t pass bets but are placed after a point is established.
  • Odds Bets – Additional bets placed on pass, don't pass, come, or don’t come wagers.
  • Proposition Bets – High-risk bets placed on specific rolls.

Understanding these sections is essential for making informed bets.

Detailed Explanation of Craps Bets

Craps offers a variety of bets, each with its own house edge and risk factor.

  • Pass Line Bet – Wins on a 7 or 11, loses on 2, 3, or 12. If a point is set, the shooter must roll it again before a 7.
  • Don't Pass Bet – Wins if 2 or 3 is rolled, loses on 7 or 11. A point must not be rolled before a 7.
  • Come Bet – Similar to the pass line bet but placed after a point is established.
  • Don't Come Bet – The opposite of the come bet.
  • Odds Bets – These are additional bets that can be placed after a point is established, offering true odds with no house edge.

Strategies to Improve Your Craps Gameplay

Effective strategies can enhance your chances of winning:

  • Stick to Low-House-Edge Bets – The pass line and don't pass line bets have a low house edge.
  • Use Odds Bets – Taking or laying odds can improve payouts as they offer no house edge.
  • Manage Your Bankroll – Set limits and avoid chasing losses.
  • Avoid High-Risk Proposition Bets – These bets have a higher house edge and lower probability of success.

Glossary of Craps Terms

Understanding key terms can improve your gameplay:

  • Come-Out Roll – The first roll in a round of craps.
  • Point – A number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) set after the come-out roll.
  • Snake Eyes – A roll of two ones (total of 2).
  • Boxcars – A roll of two sixes (total of 12).
  • Natural – A roll of 7 or 11 on the come-out roll.

Legal Aspects and Responsible Gaming

Online craps is legal in Canada when played on licensed platforms. Ensure you choose a reputable site with valid licensing. Responsible gaming is crucial; set limits and play within your means.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Craps

There are pros and cons to playing craps online:

  • Advantages:
    • Play from anywhere with an internet connection.
    • Access to multiple game variations and betting limits.
    • Online casinos offer exclusive bonuses and promotions.
  • Disadvantages:
    • Lacks the social atmosphere of a physical casino.
    • Game speed may be slower due to software interfaces.
    • Potential risks of unregulated platforms – always verify licensing.

Questions About Online Craps

  • Is online craps legal in Canada?

    Yes, online craps is legal in Canada when played on licensed and regulated platforms. Always verify that the casino holds a valid license from a recognized authority before playing.

  • What are the best bets to make in online craps?

    The best bets are those with the lowest house edge, such as the Pass Line bet, Don't Pass bet, and taking Odds bets. These offer the best long-term value for players.

  • Can I play online craps for free?

    Yes, many online casinos offer free demo versions of craps. This allows players to practice and familiarize themselves with the game before betting real money.

  • What is the house edge in online craps?

    The house edge varies by bet type. Pass Line and Don't Pass bets have a house edge of around 1.41%, while Proposition bets can have a much higher edge, sometimes exceeding 10%.

  • Are online craps games fair?

    Reputable online casinos use Random Number Generators (RNGs) to ensure fair outcomes. Always play on licensed platforms that are independently audited by third-party organizations.

  • What strategies can I use to improve my odds in online craps?

    Stick to low-house-edge bets, utilize Odds bets whenever possible, manage your bankroll wisely, and avoid high-risk Proposition bets. Playing at a reputable casino ensures fair play and better chances of success.