As far as casino dice games go, craps is right up there with some of the most popular, including roulette. It’s a go-to choice for both beginners and experienced gamblers alike due to its low house advantage. Plus, craps rules are extremely straightforward and easy to learn. There’s also something special about craps because it often creates a sense of camaraderie among the gleeful gamblers huddled around the table, especially when a group makes Pass or Don’t Pass bets and they all win or lose together. 

Like most other traditional and online casino games, there are different versions of craps to choose from. If you’re a seasoned gambler, you’ve probably already tried your hand at classic casino craps (also known as “bank craps”) but what about street craps? Read on for a breakdown of street craps rules and how this variant differs from casino craps.

What is street craps?

Drawing inspiration from street gambling in the 20th century, street craps is a new, simplified version of bank craps, with its origins in Las Vegas in the mid-2010s. It’s typically played at a much faster pace than traditional craps and doesn’t require a craps table. As long as you have a pair of dice, a flat surface and a wall off of which the dice can “bounce,” you’re ready to rock and roll! 

Street craps rules 

So, how does craps work – particularly when you’re playing the street version? Here’s what you need to know:

• The players must agree on who’s going to step up as the shooter, and it’s optional for players to take turns when shooting the dice.
• The shooter then decides how much they’d like to wager and whether they want to make a Pass bet or a Don’t Pass bet. 
• If they choose the former, they believe they’ll roll the target number before they roll a 7. The shooter also offers odds during the game. 
• All other players then place their Pass or Don’t Pass bets, with the shooter in control of lowering the betting amount if the wagers can’t cover the initial bet put forward. 
• Players also have the option to make side bets, usually the first number to appear following the “Come Out” roll or the total number of all rolls made by the shooter.
• All bets stop once the shooter throws the dice. When shooting, the dice must bounce off the side of the wall or curb in order to be deemed valid. 
• Players who made a Pass bet win if the shooter rolls a 7 or an 11. 
• Players who made a Don’t Pass bet win if the shooter rolls a 2, 3 or 20. 
• If the shooter rolls any other number, they must roll again. From there, it will be a matter of whether or not the shooter will manage to hit the point before rolling a 7. If they do, all Pass bets win. If not, all Don’t Pass bets win. 

How street craps differs from casino craps

As mentioned, street craps is played at a faster pace than casino craps, its rules are simpler and it can be played anywhere. For most gamblers, there’s no such thing as a preference for street or bank craps. Rather, it’s a matter of where and when these games are played, with gamblers turning to street craps when they’re in the mood for a game among friends or relatives outside of the casino or when they’d prefer to play in a more relaxed, informal atmosphere. 

Tips for winning when playing craps

Keen to win when playing either version of craps? Of course you are! However, there’s minimal (if any) strategy involved when playing this classic casino game of chance. That being said, there are some things you can do to optimize your gambling experience and potentially reduce your losses.

• Consider your bankroll when placing bets. If you’re playing with a more conservative amount, it’s a good idea to stick to the “safer” bets with a lower house edge to minimize your risk. 
• Take the maximum odds bets (betting on whether the point will be thrown before or after throwing a 7) when making a Pass or Don’t Pass bet. Doing so lowers the overall house edge, while at the same time, increasing your winning potential. 
• Know when to stop. There are countless thrills when playing a game of craps, which can make it challenging to tear yourself away from the table (or whatever surface you’re playing on.) Avoid “chasing losses” or trying to capitalize further on a profitable “winning streak.” Most importantly, make sure you’re playing only with money you can afford to lose!

Play craps online with Borgata

Just learning how to shoot craps, or are you already a master at the table? It doesn’t matter! We make it easy and enjoyable to play craps online, regardless of how much experience you have in the gambling realm. And it isn’t just online craps on offer, either. We specialize in a diverse menu of casino table games, from baccarat and blackjack to poker and roulette. There are many other games to explore too, including online slots, live dealer casino games, bingo and a great selection of variety games. 

Go ahead and register when you’re ready to join in on the fun!