Craps is an exhilarating dice game that has captivated the hearts of many casino enthusiasts, and it is rapidly gaining popularity in UK online casinos. The game, often known for its thrilling and fast-paced nature, offers excitement to both beginners and experienced players alike.
Whether you are new to online gambling or a seasoned veteran, craps online provides an exciting blend of luck, strategy, and a variety of betting options that make it a standout choice.
This article will serve as your ultimate guide to playing craps online in the UK. We’ll cover everything from the basics of how to play craps, the types of bets you can make, and the best strategies to improve your chances of winning. By the end of this guide, you’ll also know where to find the best online craps casino in the UK, allowing you to play confidently and for real money.
What is Craps? The Game’s History and Appeal
Craps is a classic casino dice game with a rich history that dates back to medieval times. Originally derived from a game called Hazard, craps evolved and eventually made its way to North America, where it gained a strong following in both land-based and online craps casinos. Today, it remains one of the most thrilling table games in casinos worldwide, including in the UK.
One of the reasons why craps is so popular is its social and interactive gameplay. Unlike many other online casino craps games, craps often involves a group of players cheering and celebrating wins together, creating an infectious atmosphere. For beginners, the appeal lies in its simple bets, like the Pass Line, which has a relatively low house edge.
For experienced players, the game offers strategic depth, with advanced bets and ways to manage risk, making it one of the most versatile games at online craps casinos.
How to Play Craps Online: Rules and Gameplay
To get started with craps online, you need to understand the basic rules and flow of the game. Craps is played using two dice, and the goal is to predict the outcome of the dice roll. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how to play craps:
Come-Out Roll
The game begins with the come-out roll. The player, also called the shooter, rolls the two dice. If the result is 7 or 11, players who bet on the Pass Line win immediately. If the result is 2, 3, or 12 (called “craps”), Pass Line bettors lose.
Point Establishment
If any number other than 7, 11, 2, 3, or 12 is rolled, that number becomes the point. The shooter must roll this number again before rolling a 7 to win. If a 7 is rolled before the point is re-rolled, it’s called a “seven out,” and the Pass Line bet loses.
Betting Options
There are various betting options in craps, but the most common are the Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line bets. The Pass Line bet wins if the shooter hits the point before rolling a 7. The Don’t Pass Line is essentially the opposite, betting that the shooter will roll a 7 before hitting the point again.
The craps table layout can seem intimidating at first, but it is divided into different sections representing various bet types. Learning the table layout is key to understanding where to place your bets, and many online craps casinos include helpful guides to simplify the experience.
Popular Craps Bets Explained: Which Bets Are Best?
Craps offers a wide variety of bets, which can be split into simple and advanced categories. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular bets, ideal for both beginners and experienced players:
Pass/Don’t Pass Bets
These are the most basic bets in craps and are recommended for beginners because of their low house edge. Pass Line bets win if the come-out roll is 7 or 11, while Don’t Pass Line bets win if the come-out roll is 2 or 3. These bets offer a straightforward way to get familiar with craps.
Come/Don’t Come Bets
Similar to Pass/Don’t Pass bets, Come and Don’t Come bets are placed after the point is established. These bets follow the same rules as the Pass Line, making them easy to understand once you’re comfortable with the basics.
Place Bets
Place Bets allow players to wager on specific numbers (such as 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10) coming up before a 7 is rolled. These bets are popular because they offer flexibility and pay decent odds, depending on the number chosen.
Number | Odds Payout |
4 or 10 | 9:5 |
5 or 9 | 7:5 |
6 or 8 | 7:6 |
Odds Bets
One of the best ways to minimize the house edge is by placing an Odds Bet behind a Pass or Come bet. This bet has 0% house edge, making it one of the smartest moves in craps. Odds Bets can be added after a point is established, increasing your payout potential without increasing the house’s advantage.
Field Bets
Field Bets are one-roll bets that pay if the next roll is 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12. They are quick, easy, and have decent payout potential but come with a higher house edge, making them riskier compared to Pass or Come bets.
Hardways & Proposition Bets
Hardways involve betting on doubles (like two 4s making an 8) before a 7 is rolled. Proposition Bets are high-risk, high-reward bets that advanced players use for their potential big payouts. They are not recommended for beginners due to their high house edge.
Craps Strategy: How to Play Smart and Manage Your Bankroll
Craps strategy is all about balancing risk and reward while making bets that minimize the house edge. Here are some basic and intermediate strategies to consider:
Stick to Pass/Don’t Pass and Come/Don’t Come
For beginners, it is wise to stick with the Pass Line and Don’t Pass bets. These bets have a lower house edge (around 1.41%), making them safer options. Similarly, Come and Don’t Come bets are also ideal for maintaining a low-risk approach.
Use the 3 Point Molly Strategy
The 3 Point Molly strategy is a popular choice among intermediate players. It involves placing a Pass Line bet, followed by two Come Bets, each backed up with Odds Bets. This strategy provides good coverage of the table and helps to maximize winning opportunities while managing losses.
Bankroll Management
A crucial aspect of playing craps is bankroll management. Decide how much money you are willing to risk before you start playing, and stick to that limit. Avoid risky bets like Proposition Bets unless you are comfortable with the high variance involved. Proper bankroll management ensures that you can enjoy the game longer without experiencing significant losses.
Best Online Casinos to Play Craps in the UK
For those ready to play craps for real money, here are some of the best online craps casinos in the UK that offer an exceptional craps experience:
Duelz Casino
Duelz Casino stands out for its unique gamified experience and a wide selection of table games. They offer attractive welcome bonuses and excellent mobile compatibility, making it easy for players to enjoy craps on the go.
Mr. Vegas Casino
Mr. Vegas Casino is known for its vast game library, which includes live dealer options for craps enthusiasts. They feature great promotions, including deposit match bonuses, and are licensed by the UK Gambling Commission, ensuring player safety.
Fitzdares Casino
Fitzdares Casino is another excellent choice for playing craps online. With a classic casino experience, Fitzdares offers a user-friendly interface, mobile compatibility, and an excellent selection of live craps games for an immersive experience.
These casinos are fully licensed and offer generous bonuses, secure payment methods, and mobile compatibility, ensuring a top-notch experience for craps players.
Benefits of Playing Craps Online vs. Land-Based Casinos
Playing craps online comes with several advantages over land-based casinos:
- Convenience: You can play from the comfort of your home or on the go, eliminating the need to travel.
- Bonuses and Promotions: Online casinos often offer welcome bonuses, deposit matches, and other promotions that are not available at brick-and-mortar casinos.
- Higher RTP: Online craps typically offers a higher Return to Player (RTP) percentage due to lower operating costs.
- Demo Versions: Many online craps casinos allow players to try craps for free, making it easy for beginners to learn the game without financial risk.
Craps on Mobile: Gaming on the Go
The rise of mobile gaming means that players can enjoy craps anytime, anywhere. Many UK online casinos have optimized their platforms for iOS and Android devices, offering seamless gameplay on smartphones and tablets. The best mobile craps casinos provide intuitive interfaces, easy navigation, and all the features you’d find on a desktop, ensuring you don’t miss out on any action while on the move.
Craps Bonuses and Promotions: How to Maximize Your Play
When playing craps online, players can take advantage of various bonuses and promotions offered by UK online casinos. These include:
- Welcome Bonuses: Many casinos offer a generous welcome bonus that can be used to play craps, although it’s essential to check the contribution rate for table games.
- Deposit Match Bonuses: Casinos often match a portion of your deposit, providing extra funds to play with. Always read the wagering requirements to ensure craps is an eligible game.
- Free Bets: Some casinos may offer free bets specifically for craps, which can be a great way to explore the game without risking your own money.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Craps at UK Online Casinos
Craps is an exciting, fast-paced game that combines luck and strategy, making it a thrilling choice for both beginners and experienced players. With its low house edge bets and the chance to use strategies like the 3 Point Molly, craps offers something for everyone.
The convenience of playing craps online at UK-licensed casinos, coupled with generous bonuses and mobile accessibility, makes it an excellent choice for those looking to experience the thrill of the dice.
We encourage you to try craps at one of the recommended UK casinos listed above, and remember to always play responsibly. Whether you are looking to learn the basics or apply advanced strategies, online craps provides a unique and rewarding experience. Give it a roll and see why craps has become a favorite for so many casino enthusiasts in the UK.
FAQ
Can I play craps for free online?
Yes, many online craps casino sites in the UK offer free demo versions of craps, allowing you to practice and learn the game without risking any real money.
Is craps a game of skill or luck?
While craps is largely a game of chance, certain craps strategies—like sticking to low house-edge bets (such as Pass Line and Don’t Pass)—can help improve your odds.
Are there live dealer craps games in UK casinos?
Yes, several top online craps casinos in the UK now offer live dealer craps. This brings an immersive experience where you can interact with real dealers and other players in real time.
What is the house edge in craps?
The house edge varies based on the bet, but Pass Line and Don’t Pass bets have the lowest house edges in craps casino games, at 1.41% and 1.36%, respectively.
Can I win real money playing craps online?
Yes, you can play craps online at licensed UK casinos for real money, with the potential to win actual cash. Just be sure to play at a regulated best online craps casino for a safe and secure experience.