Online craps, also known simply as the dice game, is one of the most spectacular and adrenaline-pumping casino games. Famous for its lively atmosphere in land-based casinos, craps has also adapted perfectly to the digital world, becoming increasingly popular among players.
In this guide, I’ll explain what online craps is, how the dice game works, its main rules, betting options, basic strategies, and the best sites where you can play safely.
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What Is Online Craps?
Online craps is the digital version of the classic casino dice game, where players bet on the outcome of two dice rolls.
It’s a game with a long tradition, likely originating in Europe before being refined in the United States, where it became one of the symbols of Las Vegas casinos.
In its online version, the game retains its core dynamics while simplifying interaction through intuitive interfaces and clear commands.
How Online Craps Works
To understand how online craps works, it’s important to know its main phases. Although the craps table can look complicated at first, the basic rules are actually quite simple.
The objective of craps
The aim is to predict the outcome of two dice rolls. Players can bet on many different results, but the key concept revolves around:
- Guessing the total of the dice
- Predicting whether the roll will be a win or loss for the shooter
Main phases of the game
- Come-Out Roll: the first roll of a session. A 7 or 11 means Pass Line bets win. A 2, 3, or 12 means Pass Line bets lose.
- Point: if any other number comes out, that number becomes the “Point.” The shooter must roll it again before a 7 is rolled.
- Subsequent rolls: the dice are rolled until either the Point or a 7 appears.
Main Bet Types
- Pass Line Bet: the basic wager, wins with 7 or 11 on the first roll.
- Don’t Pass Line Bet: the opposite bet, wins if 2 or 3 appear on the first roll.
- Come Bet: works like Pass Line, but placed after the Come-Out Roll.
- Don’t Come Bet: the opposite version of the Come Bet.
All Online Craps Bets
The online craps table offers many betting options:
Basic bets
- Pass Line: wins with 7 or 11, loses with 2, 3, or 12.
- Don’t Pass: wins with 2 or 3, loses with 7 or 11.
- Come/Don’t Come: similar to Pass and Don’t Pass, but available after the game starts.
Advanced bets
- Odds Bet: an additional wager on Pass or Don’t Pass, with higher payouts.
- Place Bets: betting on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10).
- Field Bet: wins if 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12 appear on the next roll.
- Big 6 and Big 8: betting that a 6 or 8 will roll before a 7.
Number bets
- Hardways: betting on doubles (e.g., 2+2 = 4) that must appear before a 7.
- Any 7: wagering that the next roll will be a 7.
- Craps: betting that the next roll will be 2, 3, or 12.
Variants of Online Craps
- Classic Craps: the standard version, with a full table and all betting options.
- Simplified Craps: designed for beginners, with fewer bets and simplified rules.
- Live Craps: play with real dealers via live streaming, replicating the excitement of land-based casinos.
- Mobile Craps: optimized for smartphones and tablets with touch controls and streamlined play.
Strategies for Playing Online Craps
Although craps is a game of chance, some strategies can help reduce risk:
- Stick to low house-edge bets: Pass Line and Come Bets have the lowest house edge (around 1.41%). Ideal for long-term play.
- Avoid high-risk bets: wagers like Any 7 or Hardways offer high payouts but very low chances of success. Best used sparingly.
- Use Odds Bets: they have no house edge and are statistically among the best bets available.
- Manage your bankroll: set a budget and stick to it. Bet moderately and aim for longer sessions.
The Appeal of Online Craps
Online craps combines excitement, interaction, and simplicity, making it a unique casino experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, the dice game promises thrilling and entertaining sessions.
With multiple variants and the ability to play from anywhere, online craps is now one of the most popular choices in digital casinos.