How to Play Craps: In-depth Guide to the Dice Game

Craps is fast-paced, full of energy, and one of the most exciting games at Potawatomi Casino Hotel. While the table might look intimidating at first, it’s actually easy to learn once you know the basics. This guide breaks down how to play, the main types of bets, and how to get in on the action on the casino floor.

How Does Craps Work: Basic Rules 

At the center of every craps game is a small black puck that tells you whether the game is starting fresh or in progress.

• When the puck is OFF, the game is ready to begin.
• The shooter (that could be you!) makes the come-out roll, the first roll in the round.

From that point forward, the game either resets or moves into what’s called a point phase, depending on what’s rolled.

• If a 2, 3, 7, 11 or 12 is rolled, the round is over immediately.
• If a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9 or 10 is rolled, that number becomes the point. The puck is then turned to ON and placed on the point.

The shooter then continues to roll until a 7 is rolled. Once a 7 is rolled, the round is then over, and a new shooter takes the dice.

The Roll of the Dice in Craps

In craps, two six-sided dice determine every outcome at the table. Both dice must be rolled together for a throw to count. Players place their bets on the total of the two dice before rolling.

• For example, if you roll a two and a three, the total is five, and your bet is based on that result.

In craps, two six-sided dice determine every outcome at the table. Both dice must be rolled together for a throw to count. Players place their bets on the total of the two dice before rolling.

• For example, if you roll a two and a three, the total is five, and your bet is based on that result.

Table Crew: Dealers, Boxman, Shooter, and Stickman

One of the things that makes craps stand out from other casino games is its unique table crew. At Potawatomi Casino Hotel, a full craps table features a team of highly trained staff who keep the action flowing and ensure every bet is processed correctly.

Each table has two dealers, one on each side, responsible for managing bets, placing chips, and paying winners.

In the center stands the stickman, easily identified by the curved stick used to control the dice. After each roll, the stickman gathers the dice and slides them back to the shooter, the player currently rolling. The stickman also announces the results of each roll, calls out winning numbers, and makes sure bets are settled.

The shooter is the player rolling the dice during each round. While anyone at the table can place bets, only one person is designated as the shooter at a time. The shooter keeps rolling until they roll a seven after a point is established. This is called “sevening out.” Once that occurs, the dice are passed to the next player, and a new round begins.

The boxman, positioned behind the table near the chips, oversees the entire operation. The boxman monitors all activity, resolves any disputes, and handles chip exchanges for cash. They are the final authority at the table, ensuring the game runs smoothly and by the book.

Types of Craps Bets

Field Bets

Field bets are some of the fastest and most popular wagers on the table.

• If the shooter rolls a: 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12. If a 3, 4, 9, 10, or 11 is rolled, you’re paid even money.
• If the roll is a 2 or 12, the payout is 2 to 1. If any other number appears, the bet loses.

These bets are quick, exciting, and don’t require much strategy, making them a great option for new players.

Pass Line Bets

One of the most beginner-friendly bets in craps and can be placed at any time.

• On the come-out roll: 7 or 11 wins, and 2, 3, or 12 loses. Any other number becomes the “point,” and the puck turns ON.
• The shooter continues rolling until either: The point is rolled again (win) or a 7 is rolled (loss).

Once the point is set, you can take odds up to 5x your original wager. This is one of the most solid bets in craps because of its low house edge.

Don’t Pass Line

• Placed when the puck is OFF, and considered betting against the shooter.
• On the come-out roll: 2 or 3 wins, 7 or 11 loses, and 12 pushes (tie).
• If a point is set, your goal is for the shooter to roll a 7 before hitting the point again.

Odds can also be added once the point is established.

Come Bets

Similar to Pass Line bets, but they’re placed after the puck is ON and a point has been set.

• The next roll becomes your “come-out roll.” 7 or 11 wins and 2, 3, or 12 loses.
• Any other number becomes your “come-point,” which must be rolled again before a 7 to win.

Odds can be added once the come-point is set.

Don’t Come Bets

Similar to Don’t Pass Line bets, but they’re placed after the puck is ON and a point has been set.

• On your come-out roll: 2 or 3 wins, 7 or 11 loses, and 12 pushes (ties).
• If a number becomes your “don’t come point,” you win if a 7 comes before that number.

Odds can also be added once the point is established.

Betting the True Odds

After a point is established, you can place additional “odds” bets behind your Pass, Don’t Pass, Come, or Don’t Come wagers.

• Odds bets have no house edge; they pay true odds based on the dice.
• Payouts: 4 or 10 pays $2 to $1, 5 or 9 pays $3 to $2, and 6 or 8 pays $6 to $5.
• Wins and losses are tied to your original flat bet.

This is one of the strongest plays in craps, giving players a chance to maximize payouts without any house advantage.

Place Bets

Can be made at any time.

• You can bet on: 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10.
• To win, your chosen number must be rolled before a 7.
• Payouts: 4 or 10 pays $9 to $5, 5 or 9 pays $7 to $5, and 6 or 8 pays $7 to $6.

Place bets can be taken down, moved, or increased before any roll. These bets give players flexibility and control while chasing their favorite numbers.

Horn Bets

Horn bets are one-roll wagers placed on the numbers

• Wagers are placed on 2, 3, 11, or 12. If any of these four numbers hit, you win.
• Payouts: 3 or 11 pays $15 to $1, 2 or 12 pays $30 to $1, and any other roll loses the bet.

Horn bets are high-risk, high-reward plays for players chasing a big payout in a single roll.

Other Bets

• Depending on the table, you may also find different bets such as proposition, world, or hardway bets.
• Payouts vary and are displayed directly on the layout.
• Dealers are always available to explain these wagers to new players.

These bets are generally riskier and designed for players looking to add variety or excitement to their game.

Beginner Tips and Strategy

Before betting real money on the table, it’s smart to spend time practicing the game. Many players start with free demos to get a feel for how craps works, allowing them to test different strategies and bet types without risking anything upfront.

Understanding the rules is also essential. Once you know how the game flows and how each bet works, you’ll be able to make more confident decisions at the table. Knowing the difference between a Pass Line bet, a Come bet, and when to take odds helps you make smarter bets. These are some of the most favorable bets in craps, and understanding them can lower the house advantage, improve your chances of winning, and give you more control over your strategy.

It’s equally important to manage your wages wisely when making your bet. Set a budget before you begin. Responsible play keeps the game fun and helps you avoid unnecessary losses.

FAQ

What craps etiquette should I know?

• Roll so both dice hit the opposite back wall.
• The shooter may handle the dice with only one hand.
• The dice should stay in plain sight of casino staff.

What is the best strategy for craps?

• Focus on bets with low house edges, such as the Pass Line, Don’t Pass, Come, and Don’t Come bets. These wagers give you better long-term odds compared to proposition bets in the center of the table.
• Manage your bankroll wisely and set a budget before you play. Stick to it, and pace your bets to keep the game fun and sustainable.

What are the best bets in craps for beginners?

• For beginners, the Pass Line or Don’t Pass Line bets are highly recommended. They are perfect for newcomers due to their straightforward rules, which make them easier to grasp.

What is the house edge in craps?

• The house edge in craps depends on the bet, and it can range from 1.41% to 16.7%.

Is craps a skill-based game?

•  Craps is mainly a game of chance, and luck plays a significant role in determining the outcome of each roll and bet. Skill is utilized when making strategic bets.

Play craps today! Don’t forget to tag us using #PotawatomiCasinoHotel on Facebook, Instagram, or X.