Free Craps Games

What is Craps?

If you’re a gambler, you’ve definitely heard of this popular game. Perhaps you’re even a master of it. But, for those who have come here with questions; we’ve got answers. While it’s more noticeable in a land-based setting, craps takes on a totally different vibe in comparison to other table games, like blackjack, for example. If you’ve ever played blackjack, you know it’s an intense game that requires very little talking, and is limited to mostly gestures. Craps, on the other hand, is a bit noisier, as players tend to be pretty vocal, particularly when it comes to their excitement following a win. Simply follow the screams, and you’ll most likely end up at a craps table (as long as there’s winning going on, otherwise you might mistake its dead silence for a blackjack table).

The popular, North American game, is traditionally played with two dice. Players are required to throw the dice, and a total of 7 or 11 results in a win, while a total of 2, 3, or 12, results in a losing throw. Any other total will allow for an additional throw.  It is regarded as a fast-paced game, with an average of 100 rounds per hour, in comparison to something like blackjack, which runs about 100 hands in the same timeframe.

How to Play

While it can certainly be daunting at first, with its busy layout and numerous bet options, the game is actually a lot easier to learn the hang of than it appears. For starters, there is one main bet you need to know. In fact, it’s possible to become a pro at the game, mastering this bet, and nothing else. The ‘passline bet,’ as its referred to, requires you to place your bet on the passline before a new player begins his roll – the come out roll. If a 7 or 11 is rolled, you win. If a 2, 3 or 12 is rolled, you lose. In the event that any other number is rolled, it will serve as the point number, and the player must roll this number again, prior to another 7 being rolled. If he succeeds, even money is awarded for the passline bet. In the event that the point number is not rolled before a 7, then you lose.

Another common bet is the ‘odds bet.’ Once the point number has been established, the bettor is given the opportunity to make an additional bet behind the original passline bet.

The passline bet it the easiest to learn, and will have any beginner well on his way.

Popular online software brands for playing this game online include Microgaming, Playteh, and RTG.

Written by Michael Shackleford Wizard of Odds

Mathematician & Game Analyst

Expert On: Table game reviews Betting odds Poker reviews Mathematics Gambling strategies

30 years of experience

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Michael Shackleford, known as “The Wizard of Odds,” is an American mathematician, actuary, and one of the gambling industry's most respected analytical voices. Famous for his clear, data-driven breakdowns of casino games and betting strategy, he has spent decades creating accessible, mathematically rigorous content for players and casinos alike. His work is widely regarded as the gold standard for transparent gambling analysis, and he continues to write, teach, and consult across the industry. Interesting fact: in 2011, he was named “Best Gambler in the World” at the invitation-only Blackjack Ball and even has his own official wiki page found here.