Craps is one of the most energetic and exciting games you’ll find in any casino. Whether you're rolling dice at a physical table or playing online from your phone or computer, the game delivers fast-paced action and intense fun. With cheers from the crowd, chips flying, and dice bouncing, craps can look overwhelming—but once you learn the basics, it’s surprisingly easy to follow.
At first, craps might seem more complicated than games like blackjack or roulette. The pace is fast, and there’s a lot of unique jargon. But don’t worry—once you understand how the game flows, you’ll see why so many players love it.
This beginner-friendly overview will guide you through the essentials. You’ll discover what the most common outcomes mean, how to place your first bets, and why everyone keeps an eye on the number 7.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
Let’s break it all down.
Craps is played in rounds, each one beginning with a “come-out roll.” The player who rolls the dice is called the shooter. In land-based casinos, the shooter throws the dice across the table. In online versions, you’ll click to roll, and the system takes care of the rest.
Your main objective is to predict how the dice will land—and place your bets based on those possibilities. Here are the main outcomes you’ll see during play:
When the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, that’s known as a “Natural.” It’s an automatic win for anyone who bet on the Pass Line—the most common and beginner-friendly bet in craps. The round ends, winnings are paid out, and a new come-out roll begins immediately.
If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll, this is called “crapping out.” Pass Line bets lose, and the round ends. But there’s no waiting around—the next shooter takes the dice and a new round begins with another come-out roll.
If the come-out roll lands on 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes the Point. The dealer (or the system in an online game) marks that number on the table.
Now, the shooter keeps rolling the dice with a specific goal:
The number 7 is central to the excitement of craps. On the come-out roll, it’s the best possible outcome for Pass Line bets. But once the Point is established, that same number becomes the worst possible result.
This dual role creates constant tension. Every roll after the Point is set is a suspenseful moment: will the shooter match the Point—or roll a 7 and end the round?
Before you jump into a game of craps, it helps to get familiar with the table layout. At first glance, it can seem confusing—but once you know what each area represents, everything starts to make sense. The design is actually well-organized, with each section tied to specific types of bets.
Craps tables are long and rectangular, designed to accommodate multiple players. The layout is mirrored on both ends, so players on either side have access to the same betting zones. This symmetry keeps gameplay fast and accessible for everyone.
The outer edges of the table are where most of the basic bets are placed. The center section is home to the more complex and high-risk wagers. Whether you're just learning the ropes or ready to try advanced strategies, knowing where to focus makes a big difference.
These are the most common bets in craps and where most beginners start. They’re placed before the come-out roll and are located along the edge of the table in front of each player.
These are similar to the Pass/Don’t Pass bets but are made after a Point has been established. You’ll find these areas a little closer to the center of the table.
Located just above the main betting lines, these areas let you wager on specific numbers appearing before a 7 is rolled.
Smack in the middle of the table, this section is reserved for high-risk, high-reward bets.
Learning the layout isn’t just about knowing where your chips go—it also helps you stay calm and collected in a fast-paced environment. Once you’re comfortable with the design, you’ll be able to:
Whether you’re sticking to basic bets or testing your luck with the center-table action, understanding where everything is located will help you enjoy the game more—and play like you belong there.
When you’re just getting started with craps, one of the first choices you’ll face is whether to bet with the shooter or against them. That decision comes down to two basic bets: the Pass Line and the Don’t Pass Line. While both are easy to place, they follow totally different mindsets and styles of play.
The Pass Line is the most popular bet in craps—especially among beginners. When you place this bet, you're backing the shooter and hoping they hit the right numbers.
Here’s how a Pass Line bet works:
The Pass Line bet is simple, has great odds, and lets you ride the momentum with the table. Most people at the table are making this bet—it’s the most social way to play.
Want to take a more strategic, less social approach? The Don’t Pass Line lets you bet against the shooter instead. You're hoping they don’t make their Point.
Here’s how this one plays out:
This type of bet is sometimes called playing the “dark side.” It’s totally legitimate and actually offers a slightly better house edge than the Pass Line—but it might feel a little less exciting since you’re rooting against the table.
Both Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line bets must be placed before the come-out roll begins. Once a Point is set, you’ll need to wait for the next round to place them again.
During the round, you can switch to Come and Don’t Come bets, which work the same way but are placed after the Point is established.
Understanding these two main bets is the perfect way to get started with craps. Once you’re comfortable, you can branch out into more advanced bets and strategies to take your game to the next level.
Once a Point is set in craps, you don’t have to sit and wait. That’s where Come and Don’t Come bets come in. These mid-round wagers function a lot like Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line bets but can be placed after the come-out roll—giving you more chances to stay active and strategic throughout the round.
A Come Bet works almost exactly like a Pass Line bet—it just comes into play after the first roll of the round.
Here’s how a Come Bet works:
Why use it? You can place a Come Bet at any time during the round—perfect if you missed the initial roll or want to spread out your bets.
The Don’t Come Bet is like the Don’t Pass Line—but placed after the Point is established. It’s the go-to for players who prefer betting against the shooter mid-round.
Here’s how it plays out:
It’s a more cautious strategy but can be very effective for players who want to play the “dark side” without missing a beat.
Once your Come or Don’t Come Point is set, you can add an odds bet to increase your potential payout. These are extra bets placed behind your main wager—and they come with no house edge.
Here’s what you can do:
Odds bets pay true odds, which makes them one of the best values at the craps table—especially when paired with Come or Don’t Come strategies.
Come and Don’t Come bets are more than just backup options—they’re tools that keep you engaged, flexible, and strategic during every phase of the game.
These bets are great for:
If you’re looking to go beyond the basics and add more depth to your craps game, learning how to use Come and Don’t Come bets is the next smart step.
Proposition bets, often just called “props,” are fast, high-risk bets made in the center of the craps table. These wagers focus on specific outcomes of the very next roll, and they’re known for delivering big payouts in exchange for high volatility. They’re a favorite among players looking for quick action and the thrill of bold plays.
These bets resolve in a single roll, making them fast and exciting—but also risky. Here's a look at some of the most common one-roll bets and what they usually pay out (based on a $1 bet):
|
Bet Type |
Winning Outcome |
Average Payout |
|
Any Seven |
A 7 is rolled |
$4 or $5 |
|
Any Craps |
A 2, 3, or 12 is rolled |
$7 |
|
Ace Deuce |
A 3 is rolled |
$15 |
|
Aces |
A 2 is rolled |
$30 |
|
Boxcars |
A 12 is rolled |
$30 |
|
Horn Bet |
2, 3, 11, or 12 is rolled |
$3.75 to $5 (varies) |
Note: Payouts can vary by casino or online provider. Always check the table’s specific rules before placing your bets.
Hard Way bets are another type of proposition bet—but they’re not resolved in just one roll. These bets predict that a specific double will be rolled before a 7 or before an “easy” version of the same total appears.
These bets are all about suspense. If you're drawn to the thrill of waiting on an exact roll—and the reward that comes with it—hard ways are a fun way to add excitement to your strategy.
If you’re not ready for the swings of proposition bets, even-money bets offer a lower-risk path to learning the game and managing your bankroll.
These bets are beginner-friendly, follow the main rhythm of the game, and carry the lowest house edge on the table. They’re a great way to stay in the game longer while learning how craps flows.
Once the Point has been set in a game of craps, players can branch out from line bets and place wagers directly on specific numbers. These are known as Place Bets, and they give you more control over your strategy by letting you choose which numbers you want to back.
Place Bets let you wager that one of the following numbers—4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10—will roll before a 7 shows up.
Here’s how it breaks down:
|
Number |
Payout |
|
6 or 8 |
7 to 6 |
|
5 or 9 |
7 to 5 |
|
4 or 10 |
9 to 5 |
The ability to turn these bets on or off gives you more flexibility than many other craps wagers, making them especially attractive to players who prefer hands-on control and strategic movement.
Field bets are perfect for players who enjoy immediate results. These are single-roll bets that pay out (or lose) based entirely on what comes up next—making them one of the fastest-moving options on the table.
A Field Bet wins if the next roll is:
2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12
You lose if the roll is:
5, 6, 7, or 8
Because the bet covers so many possible winning numbers, it’s often seen as a fun, low-barrier way to stay in the game. But don’t be fooled—since the outcome is resolved in just one roll, the risk is still very real.
Note: Not all casinos use the same payout structure. Some may pay only double on 12, for example, so check the felt or ask the dealer before you bet.
Field bets are exciting and easy to follow, which makes them great for beginners or players who want a quick burst of action. However, they come with a higher house edge compared to more conservative wagers like Pass Line or Place Bets.
If you decide to use Field Bets, do so with moderation. They work best as part of a balanced strategy—not as your main betting tool.
Big 6 and Big 8 bets are often the first wagers beginners notice when approaching a craps table. Positioned in the corners and labeled clearly, they look inviting—especially for players just learning the ropes.
These bets are as straightforward as it gets:
It’s an easy concept—just bet on a single number and hope it shows up before the house’s favorite: number 7.
Although Big 6 and Big 8 seem simple and harmless, they offer poor value compared to a better alternative: Place Bets.
Here’s the difference:
In other words, you're risking the same amount but getting a lower payout for the same outcome. For players focused on maximizing value, that’s a deal-breaker.
If you're new to craps and just want to try a few easy bets, Big 6 and Big 8 can be a decent starting point. But as you get more familiar with the game, it’s smarter to graduate to Place Bets.
Here’s why Place Bets are the better move:
Bottom line: if you’re looking to stretch your bankroll and make more profitable plays, skip the flashy corner bets and place your chips where they’ll pay off better.
Now that you’ve learned the fundamentals of craps—from how the game unfolds to the various types of bets—it’s time to put that knowledge into action. Whether you’re playing online or heading to a live casino, there are easy ways to get started without feeling overwhelmed.
If you’re new to the game or looking for a low-stress introduction, there are two great ways to start learning by doing.
Online craps is a beginner-friendly option that lets you practice at your own speed. Most reputable online casinos offer helpful tools like:
These features allow you to test different strategies and build confidence before playing in a live setting.
If you’re ready for the real deal, stepping up to a live craps table can be thrilling. The fast-paced energy and social vibe are a big part of what makes craps so fun.
Don’t be intimidated—dealers are usually glad to help new players. Just let them know it’s your first time, and they’ll often walk you through the process or answer questions between rolls.
With a little hands-on experience and observation, you’ll be rolling with confidence and getting the full thrill of the craps table—whether online or in person.
Craps is a high-energy casino game where players bet on the outcome of rolling two dice. It’s played on a specially designed table with marked betting zones, available at both online and land-based casinos.
Yes, many online casinos offer free-play versions of craps. These allow new players to practice and learn the game without wagering real money.
Absolutely. If your bets correctly predict the dice outcome, you can win real money. Payouts depend on your wager size and the type of bet you place.
Craps has some of the lowest house edges among casino games:
Payouts vary by bet type:
Your winnings depend on your bet size and risk level. Safer bets provide steady returns, while riskier bets may yield large payouts but are harder to hit.
Craps is a game of pure chance—each dice roll is random. However, managing your bankroll and sticking to smart betting options can improve your experience.
The name likely comes from the French word “crapaud,” meaning “toad.” In early versions of the game, players squatted on the floor like toads while rolling dice.
