Overview

Craps is a table game based on the outcome of two rolled dice. Players place wagers on the result of a single roll or a sequence of rolls that establish a "point." The game can be played informally between individuals (often called street craps) or at a formal casino table, where a dealer crew manages betting, payouts and dice handling. Because it centers on simple dice combinations, craps is widely regarded as a game of chance, though betting choices and table etiquette shape the experience.

Basic play and mechanics

A round typically begins with a come-out roll. Certain totals on that roll result in immediate wins or losses for common bets; others set a point number that the shooter tries to roll again before an intervening losing number appears. The two small cubes used in the game are central to every outcome: their combined faces determine results for all wagers. Players may take turns "shooting" the dice, and a designated dealer, stickperson and boxperson keep the action organized.

Common bets and table layout

The craps layout contains many marked areas for different types of wagers. Standard bets include the pass line and don’t pass line, come and don’t come, place bets on specific totals, and various one-roll propositions. Some bets are simple and recurring, while others are one-off and pay higher odds. Bettors often combine low-house-edge wagers with supplemental odds bets to manage risk. For explanatory resources, see information on dice, probability and chance, and general betting strategies.

History and development

The game evolved from older European dice games and adapted into a distinct American form over centuries. Street versions required minimal equipment and were commonly played in informal settings; these coexisted with the later standardized casino format, which formalized rules and introduced specialized staff and table design.

Variants, venues and etiquette

Street craps is informal, portable and social, while casino craps operates under house rules with dealers and a fixed layout. Online versions replicate the casino environment for remote play. Table etiquette—such as respecting the shooter, handling bets clearly and following dealer instructions—is part of what keeps play smooth. Casinos enforce their own procedures, and players often consult house rules before wagering (casino policies).

Strategy and notable points

Craps offers a mix of simple decisions and complex wagering choices. Some bets carry relatively lower house advantage and are favored by careful bettors; other proposition bets are high-risk and better understood as entertainment than long-term profit. Debates continue about techniques like controlled shooting, but the game’s outcome ultimately depends on the dice. For newcomers, learning a few basic bets and observing table flow provides a practical way to participate.

Further reading