The Best Online Craps Guide for 2026

Craps is a popular casino game that has a long and storied history. While the exact origins of the game are unclear, it is believed to have evolved from a game called Hazard, played in England during the 17th century.

Hazard was a popular game among the English aristocracy and was played with two dice. The game was introduced to France, where it became known as "craps" or "crapaud," which means "toad" in French. The game was also played in New Orleans, where it gained popularity among French and African American gamblers.

In the early 19th century, Bernard Xavier Philippe de Marigny de Mandeville introduced a simplified game version in New Orleans. This game version was played with only one die and was known as "craps." It quickly became popular among gamblers and eventually evolved into the game we know today.

During the early 20th century, craps became a staple in Las Vegas casinos, and its popularity grew. Today, craps is played in casinos worldwide and has become one of the most popular casino games.

One of the reasons for the enduring popularity of craps is its social nature. The game is often played at a large table with several players, which creates a fun and exciting atmosphere. In addition, craps offers a wide range of betting options, which allows players to tailor their strategy to their individual preferences and risk tolerance.

Over the years, various strategies and betting systems have been developed for craps, ranging from simple to complex. For example, some players prefer to focus on the pass line and don't pass line bets, which have the lowest house edge, while others prefer to use more advanced strategies such as the 5-Count or Iron Cross.

The history of craps is a fascinating tale that spans centuries and continents. From its humble origins in England to its evolution into a popular casino game in New Orleans and Las Vegas, craps has captured the imagination of players around the world.

With its social nature, wide range of betting options, and rich history, craps will remain a favourite among casino enthusiasts for years.

Craps has unique terminology that can be confusing to newcomers. Learning the language of craps is essential for understanding the game and its rules. Below are some of the most commonly used terms in craps:

• Pass line: a bet placed before the come-out roll that wins if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 and loses if the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12.
• Don't pass line:  a bet placed before the come-out roll that wins if the shooter rolls a 2 or 3 and loses if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11.
• Come-out roll: the first dice roll in a round of craps.
• Point: the number established on the come-out roll, which the shooter must roll again before rolling a 7 to win.
• Craps out: rolling a 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll, which causes the pass line bet to lose.
• Shooter: the player rolling the dice.
• Hard way: a bet that a specific number will be rolled as a pair, such as a hard 8 (two 4s).
• Field: a bet that the next roll will be a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12.
• Place bet:  a bet that a specific number will be rolled before a 7.
• Buy bet: a place bet with a 5% commission paid to the house.

Craps is a thrilling game that requires players to bet on the outcome of the roll of a pair of dice. The game is played at a large table with several players, and each player takes turns rolling the dice. To help you get started, here is a guide to the basic rules of craps:

• The first step in playing craps is to place a bet on the pass line or don't pass line. The pass line bet wins if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, while the don't pass line bet wins if the shooter rolls a 2 or 3.
• The shooter then rolls the dice. If they roll a 7 or 11, the pass line bet wins, and the round ends. If they roll a 2, 3, or 12, the pass line bet loses, and the round ends.
• If the shooter rolls any other number, that number becomes the "point." The dealer will place a marker on the table to indicate the point number.
• The shooter continues to roll the dice until they either roll the point number again, in which case the pass line bet wins, or they roll a 7, in which case the pass line bet loses, and the round ends.
• In addition to the pass line and don't pass line bets, several other types of bets can be placed in craps, including come bets, place bets, and field bets.
• Players can also make odds bets, which are additional bets placed behind the pass line or don't pass line bets. These bets have no house edge and pay out at true odds.
• Craps also has a variety of rules regarding the number of rolls, payouts, and other details that can vary depending on the casino or location where the game is being played.

Craps is an exciting and fast-paced game that requires players to bet on the outcome of a pair of dice roll. By understanding the basic rules and strategies of the game, players can increase their chances of winning and enjoy the thrill of the game. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, craps offers a unique and entertaining gaming experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Craps is a game of chance, but there are several strategies that players can use to increase their chances of winning. Here are some basic strategies to consider when playing craps:

• Focus on the pass line and don't pass line bets:  These bets have the lowest house edge and offer the best odds of winning.
• Avoid the field bet: While the field bet may offer high payouts, it has a high house edge, making it risky.
• Use a conservative betting strategy: One popular strategy is to start with small bets and gradually increase them as you win. This can help you manage your bankroll and minimize losses.
• Take advantage of odds bets: Odds bets have no house edge and offer true odds, making them a smart choice for experienced players.
• Learn the game's basic rules:  Understanding the rules of craps is essential for developing a winning strategy. Take the time to study the game and learn the different bets and their payouts.
• Stay focused:  Craps can be a fast-paced and exciting game, but staying focused and avoiding distractions is essential. Avoid drinking too much alcohol and stay alert to make informed decisions when placing bets.

Players can use these basic strategies to increase their chances of winning and enjoy the excitement of playing craps. So, remember to stay disciplined, manage your bankroll, and have fun!