Craps Variations: Exploring Different Types of Online Craps Games

Craps has been a favourite game for ages, and since its beginning, it's seen many changes, including the introduction of different types of craps. The appeal of playing online craps has also soared, offering the same thrilling experience without even leaving your house. Here, we'll explore the various types of online craps available, including their rules, potential payouts, and the house edge, to help you make informed decisions right here in South Africa.

What Are the Most Common Craps Variations to Play in South Africa?

Bank Craps

Bank craps, often called "Las Vegas craps", is the most popular version of the casino craps game. It's typically played in casinos, where players bet against the house. In this version, one player acts as the "shooter" and rolls two dice, while other players place bets on the outcome. The shooter's goal is to roll a specific point number before rolling a 7. You'll find this exciting game powered by the best online casino software at many top South African online casinos.

Street Craps

Street Craps is another common way to play, often happening anywhere, not just on a casino floor. It's a simpler version than bank craps and doesn't need a dedicated table or a large crowd. In street craps, players typically bet against each other rather than the casino. While the rules might vary depending on where you're playing, the core concept stays true to the spirit of casino craps.

Simplified Craps for Beginners

If you're new to the game and want to try craps, simplified craps is a fantastic starting point. It's much easier to grasp and play because it has fewer rules. Players focus only on a handful of outcomes: rolling a 2, 3, or 12 means a loss, while rolling a 7 or 11 leads to an instant win. This straightforward version is perfect for South African beginners to learn the ropes of craps without getting bogged down by the complex betting options found in other variations.

High Point Craps

High Point craps offers another engaging twist. On the first roll, if the shooter rolls a 2 or 3, the dice are simply returned, and they roll again. Rolling an 11 or 12 on the initial throw automatically means a win. The main aim is to roll a higher number than your first roll, which then becomes the designated 'point'. This variation is a hit with experienced players looking for a fresh challenge.

New York Craps

The main difference between New York craps and other variations is the restricted betting options. Players can only place bets on box numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10). For skilled players seeking a new challenge, this game creates a more challenging and thrilling experience.

How to Play Different Types of Craps Variations

Since the game's rules are consistent across all craps variants, learning how to play is a breeze. Players should be cautious that each variant may have its own guidelines and strategies.

Players can read about craps to learn the ins and outs of a given craps variant. How to play craps or guidelines might also be available at some reputable online casinos with the best casino games. Craps players can also play for fun without risking any money before placing real-money bets.

Gamers who want to play in the digital realm can choose between online and live craps versions, each with its own unique pros and cons. Online craps provides comfort and easy access, whereas live craps offers a more engaging and interactive gameplay experience.

The Variety of Payout Odds in Craps Variations

Different craps games offer varying payout odds. In craps, the odds of winning a given bet are calculated based on how likely the player will win. The payout odds on bets with low house edges are usually bigger than those on bets with huge house edges.

When playing bank craps, for instance, the Pass Line Bet has an approximate 49% chance of winning and gives even money. The odds of getting an Any 7 Bet are only about 17%, but the payout is 4:1. The odds of winning on each craps bet are calculated in this manner to reflect the relative risks involved.

No matter which version of craps a player chooses to play, they can always utilize craps betting strategies to increase their chances of winning.

The House Edge Changes in the Different Craps Variations

Craps variants can also differ in the house edge they offer, or the proportion of each bet the casino can anticipate retaining over time. Craps has a modest house edge (between 1% and 5%) compared to other online casino games.

However, the house edge in a game of craps can vary widely based on the regulations. Bank Craps' Pass Line Bet has a house edge of about 1.41%, while the Any 7 Bet has a much larger house edge of about 16.67%.

Similarly, the house edge for the Pass Line Bet in New York Craps is around 1.41%, but the house edge for the Hard 4 and Hard 10 Bets is significantly higher, at around 11.11%.

Craps players should familiarize themselves with the house edge for each version of the game they plan to play, as this can significantly affect their odds of winning. One way players can increase their long-term wins at a casino is to focus on bets with a smaller house edge.

The Craps Variations with Side Bets or Bonus Bets

Side bets and bonus bets do exist, increasing the odds of winning in some versions of craps. These bets are frequently offered as an additional choice and can be made alongside the standard bets.

Casinos may give a Fire Bet in Bank Craps, in which players bet on the shooter racking up numerous points. An extra payment is given if the shot scores at least four points.

A Repeater Bet is a bet placed in New York Craps where the bettor anticipates the shooter will throw the same number repeatedly. It's worth more money if the same number is rolled three times in succession.

Players should be conscious that the house edge on side bets and bonus bets is typically greater than on regular bets, despite their potential for increasing the thrill of the game. Before making such bets, players should think carefully about the odds and payouts.

Conclusion

Players can choose from several exciting craps variants. However, players should be careful that while the rules of the game is the same across all variants, there may be additional guidelines or strategies that are specific to their chosen variant.

Players can spice up their experience and possibly increase their odds of winning by trying out various craps variants. The long-term success of a craps player depends on many factors, one of which is knowledge of the payouts odds and house edge for various bets.