What is Crapless Craps?
Crapless Craps is a variation of the classic Bank Craps game, designed to eliminate one of the most discouraging outcomes for new players: losing on the come-out roll by rolling a 2, 3, or 12. In this version, those numbers are no longer “craps” that cause immediate losses. Instead, they are treated as point numbers, giving players more chances to stay in the game.
Crapless Craps has become a favorite among players who enjoy extended gameplay and more opportunities to roll the dice. However, it’s important to note that this version increases the house edge on certain bets, making it slightly less favorable for players than traditional craps.
How to Play Crapless Craps
Crapless Craps follows most of the basic rules of Bank Craps but with key differences, particularly in how the come-out roll and the point system work. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the gameplay:
Crapless Craps Features
- No Losing Craps Numbers on the Come-Out Roll:
- In Crapless Craps, rolling a 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll no longer results in an immediate loss. These numbers become points.
- Expanded Point Numbers:
- All numbers (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12) can become points.
- Higher House Edge on Certain Bets:
- The changes to the rules make the game more favorable to the house for some bets, particularly when numbers like 2 and 12 are established as points.
- Similar Bet Options:
- The betting options are largely the same as in Bank Craps, with Pass Line, Don’t Pass, Come, Don’t Come, and other wagers available.
- More Chances to Roll the Dice:
The elimination of losing numbers on the come-out roll means players stay in the game longer.
Crapless Craps Gameplay
- The Come-Out Roll:
- The shooter begins by rolling the dice for the come-out roll.
- Outcomes of the come-out roll:
- Win: Rolling a 7 or 11 results in an immediate win for Pass Line bets.
- Establish a Point: Rolling any other number (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12) establishes that number as the point.
- Point Phase:
- Once the point is established, the shooter’s goal is to roll the point again before rolling a 7.
- If the point is rolled before a 7, Pass Line bets win. If a 7 is rolled first, Pass Line bets lose.
- Betting Opportunities:
- During the point phase, players can make additional bets, such as Come, Don’t Come, Place, or Proposition bets.
- Winning and Losing:
- Pass Line bets win if the shooter rolls the point before rolling a 7.
- Don’t Pass bets win if the shooter rolls a 7 before rolling the point.
Common Bets in Crapless Craps
Crapless Craps includes most of the same betting options as Bank Craps, with slight variations in strategy due to the rule changes:
- Pass Line Bet:
- A bet that the shooter will roll a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll or make the point before rolling a 7.
- Don’t Pass Bet:
- A bet that the shooter will roll a 7 before rolling the point. While available, this bet is less favorable in Crapless Craps due to the expanded point numbers.
- Come Bet:
- Similar to the Pass Line bet, but placed after the come-out roll. A new point is established for the Come bet.
- Don’t Come Bet:
- Similar to the Don’t Pass bet, but placed after the come-out roll. A new point is established for the Don’t Come bet.
- Place Bets:
- Bets on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) being rolled before a 7. In Crapless Craps, players can also bet on 2, 3, 11, or 12.
- Field Bet:
- A one-roll bet that wins if 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12 is rolled. Higher payouts are given for 2 or 12.
- Proposition Bets:
- High-risk, high-reward bets on specific outcomes, such as rolling doubles or a total of 2, 3, or 12.
Crapless Craps Payouts
The payouts in Crapless Craps are similar to those in Bank Craps, with a few adjustments for the expanded point numbers:
- Pass Line and Come Bets:
- Pay even money (1:1).
- Don’t Pass and Don’t Come Bets:
- Pay even money (1:1).
- Odds Bets:
Pay true odds based on the point number:
- 2 or 12: 6:1.
- 3 or 11: 3:1.
- 4 or 10: 2:1.
- 5 or 9: 3:2.
- 6 or 8: 6:5.
- Field Bet:
- Pays 1:1 for most numbers, but 2 and 12 often pay 2:1 or 3:1.
- Place Bets:
Payouts vary depending on the number:
- 2 or 12: 11:2.
- 3 or 11: 11:4.
- 4 or 10: 9:5.
- 5 or 9: 7:5.
- 6 or 8: 7:6.
- Proposition Bets:
- Payouts range from 5:1 to 30:1 or more, depending on the bet.
Differences Between Crapless Craps and Bank Craps
- No Losing Come-Out Roll:
- In Crapless Craps, rolling a 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll does not result in an immediate loss. These numbers become points instead.
- Expanded Point Numbers:
- Crapless Craps includes all numbers (2 through 12) as possible points, unlike Bank Craps, which excludes 2, 3, and 12 as points.
- Higher House Edge:
- The expanded point system increases the house edge, particularly for Don’t Pass and Don’t Come bets.
- Different Strategies:
- The rule changes require players to adjust their strategies, particularly for Don’t Pass and Don’t Come bets.
How to Win at Crapless Craps
Winning at Crapless Craps requires understanding the rules, managing your bets, and choosing the right strategies. Here are some tips to help you improve your chances:
Tips and Strategies for Winning
- Focus on Pass Line Bets:
- Pass Line bets remain one of the best options in Crapless Craps, offering fair odds and straightforward gameplay.
- Take Full Odds:
- Add odds to your Pass Line or Come bets to increase potential payouts. Odds bets pay true odds with no house edge.
- Be Cautious with Don’t Pass Bets:
- Don’t Pass bets are less favorable in Crapless Craps due to the expanded point numbers, which make it harder for the shooter to lose.
- Limit Proposition Bets:
- While proposition bets offer high payouts, they also come with a high house edge. Use them sparingly for fun.
- Manage Your Bankroll:
- Set a budget for your bets and stick to it. Avoid chasing losses or betting more than you can afford to lose.
- Understand the Odds:
- Knowing the payouts and probabilities for each bet can help you make informed decisions and avoid risky wagers.
Where to Play Crapless Craps
Crapless Craps is available in select land-based casinos and online gaming platforms. Here’s how to find the best place to play:
- Casino Availability:
- Not all casinos offer Crapless Craps. Check with local casinos to see if the game is available.
- Online Platforms:
- Many online casinos feature Crapless Craps, allowing you to play from the comfort of your home.
- Free Play Options:
- Look for free versions of Crapless Craps online to practice and understand the rules before betting real money.
- Reputation and Reviews:
- Choose reputable casinos or online platforms with positive reviews and reliable payouts.
FAQs About Crapless Craps
Is Crapless Craps beginner-friendly?
Yes, Crapless Craps is easy to learn, especially since players don’t lose on the come-out roll with 2, 3, or 12.
How does Crapless Craps differ from regular craps?
In Crapless Craps, all numbers (2 through 12) can become points, and the shooter never loses on the come-out roll.
What is the best bet in Crapless Craps?
The Pass Line bet, combined with Odds, is one of the best bets due to its lower house edge.
Does Crapless Craps have a higher house edge?
Yes, the expanded point system increases the house edge, particularly on Don’t Pass and Don’t Come bets.
Can I play Crapless Craps online?
Yes, many online casinos offer Crapless Craps, often with free-play options to practice.