As one of the most exciting casino games, craps draws in newcomers with its fast pace, raucous crowds, and potential for big wins. While the craps table may initially look chaotic and complex with various bets and terms being called out, learning a few basic strategies can set any beginner on the path towards successfully rolling the dice at Casino House DK.
Landing on the Best Bets
All those boxes and betting options etched on the felt can overwhelm any novice. While seasoned players may try placing complex wagers, stick with these simpler bets as you learn the ropes:
- The Pass Line Bet: Place your chips on the pass line before the “come out roll” to bet that the shooter will win. This bet has a low house edge and gets you in on the main action.
- Don’t Pass Bet: You’re betting against the shooter winning by placing chips on the don’t pass bar. This is the basic bet for playing the “dark side.”
- Come/Don’t Come: Once a point has been established, bet on whether shooters will hit the subsequent points.
- Place Bets: After a point is made, put chips directly on the point numbers – 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10 – to bet they’ll hit before a 7.
- Odds Bets: This optional bet supports your original Pass, Don’t Pass, Come, or Don’t Come bets after a point has been made. Odds bets actually pay true mathematical odds!
Managing Your Money
Having a smart money strategy is crucial to lasting at the craps tables or any best casino slots game. Set a gambling bankroll based on your personal finances and stick to it. Here are helpful guidelines for craps beginners:
| Budget | Bankroll |
| Conservative | $200-300 |
| Moderate | $500 |
| Aggressive | $1,000+ |
Additional money management tips:
- Set win/loss limits and walk away when you reach them
- Start small – $5 or $10 Pass Line bets
- Collect your winnings and original bet when the table is hot
- Avoid placing odds bets over 5-10x the original bet
- Take frequent breaks to clear your head
Talking the Talk
Listening to the chatter and commands at a craps table can be dizzying. Bone up on these common key terms:
- Shooter – The player currently rolling the dice
- Point – The number rolled on a come-out roll, becomes the point number
- Rolls – The results of shooting/rolling the two dice
- Seven Out – When the shooter rolls a 7 after the point is established, the round ends
- Buy Bets – Buying odds bets at maximum allowed amounts
- Big Red – Betting $5 on 12 (high-risk bet)
- Railbirds – Players watching the action without betting
| Slang | Meaning |
| Yo | Bet caller demanding attention to place or collect bet |
| On the way | Bet working, shooter must make his/her point |
| Coming out roll | The first roll of dice that establishes the point |
| Fading | Placing a lay bet against a shooter |
| Frontline | The area next to the pass line where players stand |
| C and E | Bets on Craps (2) and Eleven (11) |
Setting the Stage for Success
Approach the craps table with confidence by following these handy tips:
- Seek out low minimum tables at $5 or $10 to start
- Stand at an open spot on the sidelines to watch before playing
- Ask dealers for clarification or help to place any bet
- Take advantage of odd bets (true odds make them worthwhile)
- Don’t get caught up in betting complex proposition bets
- Stay sober to make smart betting decisions
- Most importantly – have fun! Craps is a social game, so enjoy some conversation with fellow players as well. The atmosphere is part of the excitement.
When to Walk Away
Even with great strategies, losing streaks happen. Stick to your bankroll limits, and consider leaving the table if:
- You lose your predetermined budget for that session
- You win a decent chunk and want to quit while ahead
- You lose multiple bets in a row and begin playing erratically
- You find yourself too mentally tired, frustrated, or intoxicated
Cool off, grab a bite to eat, hydrate, or just change games before possibly losing money on tilt. Trust your gut on knowing when to settle up your chips and cash out for a bit.
Rolling Onwards to Wins
Like riding a bike, developing craps skills takes practice and patience with yourself. But with a grasp of basic bets, terms, and smart money management under your belt, a table full of cheers and high-fives could soon await. Allow your confidence to build over time as you apply winning strategies session by session. Before long, craps will lose any intimidation factors, and you may even consider yourself something of a “shooter.” Wherever you stand now as a beginner, just remember the words shouted to the casino rooftops: Let it ride!