Craps is arguably one of the most popular table games in a casino, due to its relatively straightforward format, but also due to its gripping and sometimes unpredictable nature. Not only this but the game can be played in brick-and-mortar establishments or through Hollywood Casino, which offers players convenience and easy accessibility.

Whether you’re a seasoned player looking to improve your skills or a beginner who’s never played craps, this guide by Hollywood Casino® will provide you with everything you need to know before you start playing craps online.

Craps rules

Craps is played using two dice on a specialized table. The aim of a game of craps is to predict the outcome of the dice roll or a series of rolls. At its core, craps revolves around two main types of bets: "Pass Line" and "Don't Pass Line".

To start, one player, referred to as the “Shooter”, tosses the dice at the craps table. All bets must be placed before the Shooter’s dice roll. The game begins with the “Come-out Roll,” where the Shooter tosses two dice. If a 7 or 11 is rolled, it's called a "Natural,” and those who bet on the pass line win. On the other hand, rolling 2, 3, or 12 results in a "Craps", leading to a loss for those who bet on the Pass Line.

If the Shooter rolls a different number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10), it becomes the "Point," and the game progresses to a second phase. During this phase, the Shooter continues to roll the dice until either the Point number is rolled again, resulting in a win for Pass Line Bets; or a 7 is rolled, resulting in a loss. This phase is known as the "Point Round."

Other bets, such as "Come" and "Don't Come," can be made during this phase, offering additional opportunities for players to wager on the outcome.

Placing bets in craps

Craps offers a variety of betting options, allowing you to wager on various outcomes of the dice rolls. From simple bets like "Pass Line" and "Don't Pass Line," to more complex options like "Place Bets" and "Come Bets," the game offers something for every type of player.

Here are some of the more prevalent wagers you'll encounter when playing craps online:

• The Pass Line Bet: This bet is made on the initial roll of the dice, known as the Come-out Roll. You place your chips on the belief that the Come-out Roll will yield a total of 7 or 11, resulting in a win for the Pass Line Bet. However, this bet is lost if the Come-out Roll lands on 2, 3, or 12. Should any other number be rolled, it becomes a Point, and the Point must be rolled again. The Pass Line Bet wins only if the Point number emerges before a 7 or 11.

• Don't Pass Line Bet: This wager stands against a 7 or 11 during the Come-out Roll. It is the opposite of the Pass Line Bet. Should either of these numbers be thrown, the Don't Pass Line Bet loses. You need a 2 or 3 (12 results in a tie) to win.

• Come Bet: Players have the flexibility to place this bet at any point during the Shooter's game. The objective is to bet on the result of the subsequent dice roll. For instance, if the dice lands on 7 or 11, the Come Bet wins. However, the Come Bet loses if a 2, 3, or 12 is rolled. Any other number is your Come Bet, which must be rolled again before a 7 emerges for you to win.

• Place Bet: Once the Point number has been established in the game, players can make a place bet. This type of wager revolves around specific numbers, including 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10. To win, one of these numbers must be rolled before a 7 emerges. If a 7 comes first, the Place Bet is lost.

• Don’t Come Bet: Like a Come Bet, these wagers can be made any time after the first roll, assuming the Shooter has a point to establish. The opposite of a Come Bet though, this wager triumphs if a 2 or 3 is rolled (with 12 resulting in a tie), but it loses if a 7 or 11 is rolled. Any other rolled number becomes your "Come Point," and repeating that number leads to a loss, while a roll of 7 secures a win.

• Proposition Bets: Here, chips are placed on various proposition bet boxes, and the outcome of the subsequent dice roll determines whether the player wins or loses the bet. For instance, the Any Craps box represents a wager for a 2, 3, or 12 to be thrown, while the Ace Deuce box hinges on the number 3.

Craps odds & payouts

This section delves into some of the most popular bets available in craps and their corresponding payouts:

• Pass Line Bet: The Pass Line Bet pays 1:1 with a house edge of 1.41%

• Don't Pass Line Bet: The Don't Pass Line Bet pays 1:1 with a house edge of 1.40%

• Come Bet: The Come Bet, like the Pass Line Bet, pays 1:1 with a house edge of 1.41%

• Don't Come Bet: The Don't Come Bet, like the Don’t Pass Line Bet, pays 1:1 with a house edge of 1.40%

Live dealer craps

Live dealer craps combines the convenience of online play with the thrilling atmosphere of tables in a land-based casino. It involves real-time human dealers, professionally trained to interact with players and create an immersive and social experience. You can participate in the game remotely through advanced streaming technology, witnessing every dice roll from various camera angles.

Here at Hollywood Casino, we host a range of top-notch craps games by Evolution Gaming.

If you are looking to recreate the feel of playing at a brick-and-mortar casino, these are some of the advantages you get to enjoy by choosing to play live dealer craps:

• Authentic Atmosphere: Live dealer craps allows players to experience the genuine casino atmosphere from the comfort of their homes. The interaction with real dealers and other players adds a social element that enhances the game's overall enjoyment.

• Enhanced Immersion: The high-definition video streams, multiple camera angles, and real-time interaction with the dealer create an immersive environment that closely replicates the excitement of playing at a land-based casino. The visuals, sounds, and emotions of the game are brought to life, elevating the overall gaming experience.

Craps strategies & tips

Craps is a fast-paced casino game that can be intimidating for beginners. However, with the right strategies and tips, you can boost your chances of winning and have a great time at the craps table. Here are our exclusive craps tips, tricks, and strategies.

For beginners, setting a budget before you even step foot in the casino is crucial. Having a fixed budget will help you manage your bankroll and avoid the temptation to chase losses. Also, start with smaller bets to feel your way around the table. You can gradually increase your stake once you grasp the game well.

The 5-count system is a conservative approach that aims to minimize your exposure to the house edge. The strategy involves waiting for the Shooter to make five non-seven rolls before placing any bets. By doing so, you aim to identify Shooters skilled at rolling the dice and can roll consistently. The 5-count system is particularly popular among players who prefer a more cautious approach and want to conserve their bankroll.

On the other hand, the Iron Cross strategy is more aggressive and offers the potential for larger payouts. With the Iron Cross, you place bets on multiple numbers simultaneously—specifically, the field bet and place bets on the 5, 6, and 8. This strategy covers most of the possible outcomes, giving you a higher chance of winning on each roll. However, it's important to note that the Iron Cross strategy has a higher house edge.

Craps etiquette

Understanding and following the unwritten rules of craps can make the experience enjoyable for everyone involved, ensuring a harmonious atmosphere at the table. Here’s our take on craps etiquette you’ll need to know before enjoying a craps game online.

A fundamental aspect of craps etiquette is knowing the rules of the game. Before joining the action, take your time to learn the basic gameplay mechanics, bet types, and table layout. This demonstrates respect for your fellow players and helps maintain a smooth flow of the game.

By practicing good craps etiquette, you can enhance the overall experience for yourself and others at the table. Embrace the camaraderie, respect the rules, and create a harmonious environment where everyone can revel in the excitement of the game. Remember, craps is a social game, and players often cheer for each other's successes.

Choosing a reputable casino to play craps in The United States

When it comes to playing craps online in The United States, choosing a reputable casino that offers a secure and enjoyable gaming experience is essential. With the abundance of options available, finding the right platform can be a daunting task. However, one online casino that stands out from the rest is Hollywood Casino available on ESPN BET, and here’s why:

Hollywood Casino offers an impressive selection of craps games, ensuring that enthusiasts of this exciting dice game can find their preferred variant easily. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, Hollywood Casino provides a user-friendly interface and intuitive gameplay that caters to all levels of expertise.

Online craps FAQs

In this section, we address those popular queries that may not have been covered in our comprehensive guide:

Is playing craps online safe?

Yes, playing craps online is safe, provided you play at a reputable and licensed online casino. Look for platforms that utilize secure encryption protocols and adhere to strict regulations to safeguard your personal and financial information.

What is the house edge in craps?

When it comes to craps, the house edge varies based on the type of bet you place. Generally, the best bets, like the "Pass Line" and "Don't Pass Line," have a low house edge of around 1.41% and 1.40%, respectively.

Can I use a craps strategy to improve my chances of winning?

No strategy can guarantee consistent wins; however, employing sound strategies can enhance your overall experience and improve your chances of winning. Some popular strategies include the "5-count system" and "Iron Cross strategy."