Ever been curious about the exciting world of dice games? You’re in the right spot. Whether it’s a fun game online or a serious round in a casino, rolling dice is always a thrill.
In this guide, we’ll teach you how to roll dice with conviction and the game plan for winning. We’ll go over everything from the basics of rolling dice to advanced methods used by experienced players. So, let’s jump in and start our adventure towards mastering how to shoot dice.
Terminologies:
Shooter: The player who is responsible for shooting the dice.
Come out: The first roll of the dice in a round.
Pass: A term for a winning roll of 7 or 11 on the come-out roll.
Craps: A term for a losing roll of 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll.
Point: If the come-out roll is neither a pass nor craps, the number rolled becomes the point. The shooter must then roll again and either hit the point to win or roll a 7 to lose.
Seven out: The term for when a shooter rolls a seven before hitting the point.
Bounce: The requirement that the dice hit the walls of the table before coming to rest.
Fingers: A rule that no part of the body, especially fingers, should be over the table during a roll.
Side bet: An additional bet made beyond the main game, often at the beginning of a round.
Basic Dice Rules
The first step in becoming good at shooting dice games is to learn the rules. Although they have some things in common, not all dice games have the same rules. Dice games like casino craps and street craps are very similar but the rules in Sic Bo and other dice games are very different.
Basic Casino Craps Rules
This is a fun dice game played in many casinos around the world. Players bet on what they think will be the sum of rolling 2 dice. You can play against other players or against the casino itself. It’s a mix of luck and strategy.
- The Aim: The essence of the game is to forecast the outcome of a pair of dice. The individual rolling the dice is known as the ‘shooter’.
- The Initial Roll (Come-Out Roll): A roll of 7 or 11 leads to a win for those who wagered on the pass bets. Conversely, a roll of 2, 3, or 12 (termed craps numbers) results in a loss.
- Pointing a number: If the shooter rolls a number such as 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, this number becomes the ‘point’. The objective then shifts to rolling this point number again before a 7 appears.
- Betting: During the come-out roll, players have the option to place the pass bets line. There are also provisions for betting against the table.
- The Table Crew: A standard craps table is manned by four crew members – two dealers, a boxman, and a stickman – who ensure that gameplay is fair and accurate.
There are still strategies that need to be utilized, you can read our blog that teaches you how to play and know the strategies of craps to confidently bet and earn money.
Basic Street Dice Rules
Also known as street craps or ghetto dice, this is a simpler version of casino craps. It’s usually played in casual settings without a formal table. Players bet on what they think will be the result of rolling 2 dice. It’s easy to play and doesn’t need any special equipment, which makes it a popular choice for casual play.
- Shooter Selection: The shooter is selected based on convenience. It could be the first person to arrive, players taking turns, or a volunteer.
- Placing Bets: The shooter decides the amount to bet and chooses between two options: Pass or Don’t Pass.
- Rolling the Dice: The shooter rolls 2 dice. All betting must cease once the dice have been thrown.
- Determining the Winner:
- Pass Bets: If the dice roll results in a seven or eleven, the pass bet wins.
- Don’t Pass Bet: If the dice roll results in a two, three, or twelve, don’t pass bet wins.
- Additional Betting Options: Players have the option to place side bets in addition to their main bet.
You can read more about the rules for street dice and the strategies to win and earn money.
Basic Sic Bo Rules
Sic Bo is an old Chinese game that’s all about chance and is played with three dice. The name “Sic Bo” means “dice pair” in Chinese. It is a shooting dice game in which players bet on what they think will be the result of rolling the three dice. Every roll could lead to a win or loss, depending on your bet.
- Placing of Bets: Players begin the game by placing their bets on specific areas of the table. Each area corresponds to a different potential outcome of the dice roll.
- Shaking of Dice: After all bets are placed, the dealer shakes a small chest containing the dice and then reveals the resulting combination. The main objective of Sic Bo is to accurately predict the outcome of the dice roll.
- Win or Lose: Each roll of the dice can result in a win or loss, depending on the bets placed.
- Betting options: There are various betting options available in Sic Bo, each with its odds and house edge.
The game consists of predictions and strategies, you can read the How to Play Sic Bo blog, to learn more about the strategies and betting options and much more information about playing Sicbo.
Difference Between Common Dice Games
Game Setup
Sic Bo: The dealer mechanically rattles the dice in a cage while players wager on the potential outcomes indicated on the table.
Casino Craps: Craps is an energetic, fast-paced game primarily using two dice. The player or “shooter,” throws two dice, and other players bet on the outcome. It involves more player engagement compared to Sic Bo.
Street Craps: This game is a simplified version of Casino Craps. It’s typically played in informal settings without the use of a conventional table. Players bet on the outcomes of the roll of two dice.
Gameplay & Strategies
Sic Bo: Players place their bets on specific areas of the table, each representing a potential dice outcome. The dealer then shakes a small chest containing the dice and then reveals the resulting combination.
Casino Craps: The shooter shoots dice across the table that is divided into three areas: two side areas separated by a center one. Each side area is the mirror reflection of the other and contains all the different bets that can be made.
Street Craps: The game is played in an informal setting (like on a sidewalk or street corner), where players bet against each other on the outcome of one shooter’s dice roll.
Payout & Wins
In Sic Bo, probabilities and thus payouts vary wildly depending on the bet. For instance, betting on a single number appearing has a much higher chance than betting on a specific triple.
In casino craps, you’ll find some of the most favorable odds with line bets such as Pass/Don’t Pass and Come/Don’t Come. However, the house edge varies significantly among different bet types.
The payout in street craps would depend on the specific rules agreed upon by the players as it’s often played in informal settings.
Taking Advantage of Probabilities and Results
Probabilities of Rolling a Particular Number
When rolling two dice with 6 sides, the total can range from 12 to 2. The probability of each total and the combinations that can result in that total are as follows:
Total on Dice Pairs of Dice Probability
12: 6+6 dice combination gives a 1/36 or 3% chance
11: 5+6, 6+5 dice combinations gives a 2/36 or 6% chance
10 4+6, 5+5, 6+4 dice combination gives a 3/36 or 8% chance
9 3+6, 4+5, 5+4, 6+3 dice combination gives a 4/36 or 11% chance
8 2+6, 3+5, 4+4, 5+3, 6+2 dice combination gives a 5/36 or 14% chance
7 1+6, 2+5, 3+4, 4+3, 5+2, 6+1 dice combination gives a 6/36 or 17% chance
6 1+5, 2+4, 3+3, 4+2, 5+1 dice combination gives a 5/36 or 14% chance
5 1+4, 2+3, 3+2, 4+1 dice combination gives a 4/36 or 11% chance
4 1+3,2+2,3+1 dice combination gives a 3/36 or 8% chance
3 1+2,2+1 2/dice combination gives a 36 or 6% chance
2 1+1 dice combination gives a 1/36 or 3% chance
These probabilities are based on the fact that there are a total of 36 possible outcomes when rolling two six-sided dice. Each die has six faces and each face has an equal chance (1 in 6) of landing face up on each roll.
Placing Bets Based On the Probability
- Bet on High Probability Outcomes: The number 7 has the highest probability of occurring (about 16.67%). Therefore, betting on 7 can be a safer strategy as it’s the most common outcome.
- Consider the Risk and Reward: Betting on outcomes with low probabilities, such as 2 or 12 (each with a probability of about 2.78%), can yield high rewards but they also come with a higher risk.
- Spread Your Bets: Instead of putting all your money on one outcome, consider spreading your bets across several outcomes to increase your chances of winning.
- Learn and Adapt: Use your experiences from previous games to inform your betting strategy. Notice patterns, learn from your mistakes, and adapt your strategy as needed.
How to Shoot The Dice Strategically
Setting Up the V Form
Imagine arranging the dice so that you can see a “V” shape formed by the number three on both dice. This setup gives you a pair of threes on top (which is called a hard six), a five and a one in front (which adds up to six), a six and a two at the back (which adds up to eight), and a pair of fours at the bottom (which is called a hard eight).
Bet Big When You’re the Roller
If you’ve practiced your roll and you’re pretty sure you can avoid rolling a seven, think about betting more money when it’s your turn to roll. This is because you have more control over what happens compared to when others are rolling.
Practice Dice Control
This means learning how to hold and throw the dice in a way that they don’t just land randomly, but consistently and in a way that you want them to. With enough practice, this could help you get the outcome you want.
To better understand how to practice better here are 5 tips to roll a die:
Use a Consistent Grip: How you hold the dice can affect how they roll. Find a grip that is comfortable for you and practice it consistently.
Aim for the Same Spot: Try to aim for the same spot on the table every time you roll. This can help you develop consistency in your roles.
Minimize Dice Rotation: The more the dice rotate in the air, the more likely they are to land on a random number. Practice throwing the dice with minimal rotation.
Stay Calm and Focused: It’s important to stay calm and focused, regardless of the outcome of your previous roles. Don’t let one bad roll affect your next one.
Master the Soft Roll: Practice at home with two dice. The goal is to roll the dice softly enough so that they merely hit the wall, rather than bouncing around.
Etiquette and Tips For Shooting Dice
Learn the Game: Before you start playing, make sure you know the rules. This includes how to bet and what different words in the game mean.
Respect the Shooter: The person who is rolling the dice is called the shooter. Make sure to give them space and don’t distract them when they’re rolling.
Handle the Dice Correctly: The shooter should always hold the dice with one hand and not switch hands. Also, they need to make sure the dice hit the back wall of the table for the roll to count.
Know When to Bet: Make sure you know when you’re allowed to place your bets. In some games, you have to place your bets before the game starts, while in others, you can place bets after the first roll.
Be a Good Sport: Whether you’re winning or losing, always be nice to the other players and respect the game.
Follow Casino Rules: If you’re playing in a casino, they might have extra rules that you need to follow.
Conclusion
Shooting dice is a fascinating activity that combines elements of chance, strategy, and social interaction. Whatever dice game you’re playing, understanding the rules, payouts, and strategies can enhance your gaming experience and increase your chances of winning.
Casino Craps offers a dynamic environment with a variety of betting options. Street Dice brings the game to a more informal and accessible setting. Sic Bo provides a taste of ancient Chinese gaming tradition with its unique use of three dice. Now that you’ve learned how to shoot dice like a pro, always remember to follow etiquette and enjoy the game responsibly.
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