If you’re considering diving into the exciting world of online craps, you’re in the right place. As one of the most popular casino games, craps offers a thrilling blend of strategy, excitement, and chance. Whether you’re playing at well-established online casinos like Ozwin, FairGO, Ozwin or the infamous Spinago or the pokies net, knowing the ins and outs of the game will elevate your experience.
Understanding Online Craps: Basic Rules and Mechanics
Craps is a dice game where players bet on the outcome of rolls or a series of rolls. The game is often played with two dice and a betting table filled with various options. The objective is simple: correctly predict the outcome of the roll of the dice. However, the complexity comes in the variety of betting options, each with its own odds and strategies.
At the craps table, you’ll find two major types of bets – pass line bets and don’t pass line bets. The come-out roll is the first roll of the game, and based on the result, various outcomes will determine whether a point is established or if the round is won or lost.
Key Bets in Online Craps
Pass Line Bet
The pass line bet is one of the most fundamental bets in craps. You place your chips on the pass line, and if the come-out roll is a 7 or 11, you win. However, if the roll is a 2, 3, or 12, you lose. If any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) is rolled, it becomes your “point,” and you must roll that same number again before rolling a 7 to win.
Odds Bets
Once a point is set, you can place an odds bet on top of your pass line bet. This bet has no house edge, meaning the odds are fair, and you can increase your chances of winning. The payout on odds bets varies depending on the number chosen. For example:
- If the point is 4 or 10, the odds bet pays 2:1.
- If the point is 5 or 9, it pays 3:2.
- If the point is 6 or 8, it pays 6:5.
The more you bet on odds, the lower the house edge becomes. For instance, a pass line bet with ten times the odds brings the house edge down to a mere 0.18%.
Don’t Pass and Don’t Come Bets
The don’t pass bet is essentially the opposite of the pass line bet. In this case, you win when the shooter (the player rolling the dice) loses. If the come-out roll results in 2 or 3, you win, but if 7 or 11 is rolled, you lose. If any other number is rolled, it becomes your point, and you aim for a 7 to win.
The don’t come bet works similarly to the don’t pass bet but can be placed once the point is established. It wins if a 7 is rolled before the point is rolled again.
Advanced Strategies for Success in Craps
While basic bets are essential, seasoned players often employ advanced strategies to gain an edge over the house. Here are a few strategies to consider when playing online craps:
Place and Buy Bets
A place bet is placed on a specific number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10). If the number you bet on is rolled before a 7, you win. On the other hand, a buy bet is a more expensive wager but lowers the house edge on numbers like 4 or 10, paying better odds than a standard place bet.
Be aware that the buy bet typically carries a 5% commission fee, which needs to be accounted for when making your decision.
Hardway Bets
The hardway bet is a bet on the “hard” version of a roll, meaning a double (like 2-2 for a hard 4 or 3-3 for a hard 6). This bet has a high house edge (11.1% for a hard 4 or 10), so it’s generally not recommended for beginners. However, it can add excitement to the game.
Field Bets
The field bet is one of the most straightforward bets. If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12, you win. However, a 5, 6, 7, or 8 results in a loss. Many casinos will offer a bonus if a 2 or 12 is rolled, paying out 2x or even 3x your original bet.
Craps Bet Payouts and House Edge
Understanding the payouts and house edge is crucial when developing a craps strategy. Here’s a breakdown of some common bets and their house advantages:
| Bet Type | Casino Payoff | Casino Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Pass Line Bet | Even Money | 1.41% |
| With Single Odds | Even Money Plus Odds | 0.85% |
| With Double Odds | Even Money Plus Double | 0.61% |
| Hard 4 or 10 | 7:1 or 8:1 | 11.1% |
| Field Bet | Varies (e.g., 2 or 12) | 5.5% |
Tips for Beginners and Experienced Players
For beginners, focus on simple bets like the pass line and field bets to gain a feel for the game. As you become more comfortable, consider adding odds bets and experimenting with more advanced wagers like come bets and buy bets.
For experienced players, the key is to minimize the house edge as much as possible. Always look for opportunities to take advantage of odds bets, which carry a significantly lower house edge.
Conclusion: Maximize Your Craps Experience
Playing online craps offers an exciting and rewarding experience, whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner. By understanding the rules, strategies, and the odds behind each bet, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to always manage your bankroll wisely and practice your strategy to improve over time.
Enjoy the thrill of online craps, and may the dice roll in your favor!