So, What Exactly is the Game of Craps?
Let’s talk craps for a moment, shall we? Craps is another popular form of gambling that is excessively popular in casinos and gambling halls. Unlike most of the other games, which are played with cards, Craps is played with dice.
Craps has been around for a long time, making its American debut in New Orleans. The game was originally known as “crapaud”, and was a well-liked game throughout the African American social circles.
The game itself can seem a little frantic for inexperienced newcomers, given its fast paced gameplay, and seemingly complex table set up. Basically, what a first time player needs to do is start out with a small bet, and keep it regulated to the pass line (that little strip that runs around the table’s layout) until they get a little more confidence in playing the game. After a few tries the average player will be more than ready to step up and play the role of the shooter.
There are two ways that Craps are played. There are “Street craps”, which is where players bet against each other, or “Bank craps”, where winnings are based on the results of a single (or double) roll of the dice. While casinos have a full table used for the game (and a complicated looking one at that), the nature and equipment of the game is so simple that it can be played practically anywhere.
There are several types of betting structures that can be used in playing Craps. For starters, there are Line Bets, which includes such wagers as Pass Line, Don’t Pass Bar, Come Bar, Don’t Come Bar, and others (odds and the like).
For Multi Roll Bets, there’s the Hard Way and Easy Way, Big Sixes and Eights, Place and Buy and Lays. And finally, there’s a Player Bet (technically called a Fire Bet). As you can see, there are many ways to attempt to rake in that cool amount of quick cash. All it takes is a roll of the dice.
Due to its fast gameplay, and easy accessibility to play anywhere (all you really need is a pair of dice and a will to bet, after all), Craps is a game you can learn pretty quickly, without any complicated “How To” tutorials. It’s just a matter of skill, and knowing those odds. The key is to understand what bets are on the table, and when they can be placed – it looks a little overwhelming at first, but like most games, it’s really not as hard as it looks.
Craps can also be a “high roller” game – literal fortunes can be won or lost. Even small amounts can go quickly ($100 may last you an hour at the $5 blackjack table - $100 might last you 5 minutes in craps.)
But you know, it’s a fun game, and easily the most “wild” part of the casino. A crowded craps table is as loud as any good party. So the next time you are out at the casino, saddle up to the craps table and give it a shot. Good luck in rollin’ those bones!
