Craps is one of the most thrilling and fast-paced games found in casinos around the world. With its roots deeply embedded in history and its dynamic nature, craps has captivated gamblers for centuries. In this article, we will explore the fascinating history of craps and dice, delve into the rules that govern the game, and uncover some fun facts that make craps a unique and enduring part of the gambling world.
The History of Craps and Dice
Ancient Origins of Dice
Dice, the small cubes with numbered faces that are central to the game of craps, have a history that dates back thousands of years. The earliest known dice were found in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) and date back to around 3000 BC. These ancient dice were made from materials like bones, wood, and stone, and were used in various games of chance.
Dice have been found in numerous ancient civilizations, including Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where they were used in games and religious rituals. The concept of rolling dice to determine an outcome has remained remarkably consistent throughout history, with these simple objects becoming the foundation of countless games, including craps.
The Evolution of Craps
Craps, as we know it today, has evolved from an earlier game called "Hazard," which originated in Europe during the Middle Ages. Hazard was a popular game among the English aristocracy and involved players rolling two dice to achieve certain numbers, with complex rules governing the outcomes.
In the 18th century, Hazard was introduced to French gamblers, who simplified the rules and renamed the game "crapaud," meaning "toad," likely because players often crouched like toads while playing the game in the streets. As French colonists brought the game to North America, it further evolved into the game of craps.
By the early 19th century, craps had become a popular gambling game in New Orleans, where it was played on riverboats and in gambling houses. The game continued to spread across the United States, eventually becoming a staple in casinos and a beloved pastime for gamblers of all backgrounds.
Craps in the Modern Era
The 20th century saw craps solidify its place in the world of casino gambling. The game became particularly popular during World War II, when American soldiers played it in their downtime. This period also saw the standardization of the rules and the introduction of the layout and betting options that are familiar to players today.
Craps became synonymous with the excitement and glamour of Las Vegas, where it remains one of the most popular table games. The introduction of online casinos in the late 1990s brought craps to a global audience, allowing players to enjoy the game from the comfort of their own homes.
Understanding the Rules of Craps
The Basics: How to Play Craps
Craps may seem complex at first glance, but the basic premise is straightforward. The game is played with two dice, and the outcome of each roll determines the result of various bets placed by the players. The game revolves around the "shooter," the player who rolls the dice.
The first roll of the dice in a round is known as the "come-out roll." If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, it’s an automatic win for players who bet on the "pass line." If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, it’s called "craps," and pass line bets lose. Any other number rolled becomes the "point," and the shooter must roll that number again before rolling a 7 to win the round.
Betting Options in Craps
Craps offers a wide variety of betting options, which can be divided into two main categories: "pass line" and "don’t pass line" bets, and additional bets that can be placed on specific outcomes.
- Pass Line Bet: This is the most common bet in craps. Players betting on the pass line are wagering that the shooter will win by rolling a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, or by rolling the point number before a 7.
- Don’t Pass Line Bet: The don’t pass line bet is essentially the opposite of the pass line bet. Players are betting that the shooter will lose by rolling a 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll, or by rolling a 7 before the point number.
- Come Bet: This bet is similar to the pass line bet, but it can be made after the come-out roll. It involves betting that the next roll will be a 7 or 11, or that the shooter will roll the same number twice before rolling a 7.
- Don’t Come Bet: The don’t come bet is the opposite of the come bet, where players wager that a 2, 3, or 12 will be rolled after the point is established, or that a 7 will be rolled before the shooter repeats the same number.
- Odds Bet: Once a point is established, players can place additional bets on the odds. This is a side bet that pays true odds if the point number is rolled before a 7.
- Place Bets: Players can bet on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) being rolled before a 7.
- Field Bet: A one-roll bet where players wager that the next roll will result in a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12.
- Proposition Bets: These are high-risk, high-reward bets on specific outcomes, such as the exact total of the next roll.
The Importance of House Edge in Craps
One of the reasons craps is so popular among gamblers is its relatively low house edge on certain bets, particularly the pass line bet, which has a house edge of just 1.41%. The don’t pass line bet offers an even lower house edge of 1.36%. However, players should be cautious with proposition bets, as these typically come with a much higher house edge.
Understanding the house edge is crucial for any serious craps player, as it can significantly impact the long-term success at the table. By sticking to bets with a lower house edge, players can increase their chances of walking away with a profit.
Fun Facts About Craps and Dice
The Influence of Dice on Language
The phrase "no dice," meaning an unsuccessful attempt or failure, has its origins in the world of gambling, specifically in dice games like craps. The phrase became popular in the United States in the early 20th century and is still commonly used today.
The Origin of the Word "Craps"
The word "craps" is believed to be a derivation of the French word "crapaud," which means "toad." The term was likely used to describe the way players would crouch like toads while playing dice games on the streets. Over time, "crapaud" evolved into "craps," the name we know today.
Craps in Pop Culture
Craps has made numerous appearances in popular culture, particularly in movies and music. One of the most iconic references is the song "Luck Be a Lady" from the musical Guys and Dolls, where the main character, Sky Masterson, sings about a high-stakes craps game. The song was later popularized by Frank Sinatra, further cementing the game’s association with luck and glamour.
The World’s Largest Dice
In 2013, a group of students from the University of California, Berkeley, created the world’s largest dice, measuring 6 feet on each side. The dice were rolled on the university campus as part of a mathematics event, demonstrating the enduring fascination with these simple yet powerful objects.
The "Fire Bet" in Craps
One of the most exciting side bets in craps is the "fire bet," where players wager on the shooter’s ability to establish and win multiple point numbers in a single roll. The more points the shooter hits, the higher the payout, with the top payout often being 1,000 to 1. This bet adds an extra layer of excitement to the game, as players root for the shooter to get on a hot streak.
The Record for the Longest Craps Roll
In May 2009, Patricia Demauro, a grandmother from New Jersey, made history at the Borgata Hotel Casino in Atlantic City by rolling the dice for four hours and 18 minutes without rolling a seven. This incredible streak lasted 154 rolls and is considered the longest craps roll in history, with Demauro defying the odds and winning big.
Craps Superstitions
Craps, like many other casino games, is steeped in superstition. One common belief is that saying the word "seven" at the table will bring bad luck, as rolling a seven at the wrong time can cause players to lose their bets. Another superstition is that new players, known as "virgin shooters," are more likely to roll winning numbers.
Players often have personal rituals, such as blowing on the dice or holding them a certain way, believing these actions will influence the outcome. While there is no scientific basis for these superstitions, they add to the colorful and lively atmosphere at the craps table.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Craps
Craps has come a long way from its origins in ancient dice games to its status as a beloved casino staple. Its blend of strategy, luck, and excitement continues to draw players to the tables, both in land-based casinos and online.
Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or a newcomer to the game, understanding the history, rules, and cultural significance of craps can enhance your appreciation of this classic casino game. With its rich history, engaging gameplay, and fascinating facts, craps remains a timeless and thrilling way to test your luck and skill.
