Different Craps Types Full Guide

1. Crapless Craps  

Crapless Craps is a unique variation of the traditional game that offers players a different experience and set of rules. In this variant, the craps numbers (2, 3, and 12) are treated as point numbers instead of being instant losses on the come-out roll, hence the name “Crapless.” This means that players cannot lose immediately on the come-out roll by rolling a 2, 3, or 12, as they would in standard craps.

The origins of Crapless Craps can be traced back to the mid-20th century, when casinos sought to introduce new variations of popular games to attract players and offer them different experiences. Crapless Craps was born out of this desire to innovate and provide players with an alternative to the traditional game.

In Crapless Craps, the come-out roll becomes a bit less risky for players, as they don't automatically lose if they roll a 2, 3, or 12. However, this change in rules comes with its own set of consequences. Since these numbers are treated as point numbers, they become harder to roll as the game progresses, increasing the likelihood of rolling a 7 before hitting one of these numbers again. This shift in probabilities alters the overall dynamics of the game and affects players' strategies and betting decisions.

2. High Point Craps  

High Point Craps is an intriguing variation of the traditional game that introduces an additional rule regarding the come-out roll. In this variant, the come-out roll is crucial, as the shooter must roll a higher point than 2 or 3 but lower than 11 to establish the point. If the shooter rolls a 2 or 3, it's considered a “push,” and the round is rerolled until a valid point is established. If the shooter rolls an 11, it's also a push, but the player can choose to either reroll or start a new game.

The origins of High Point Craps can be traced back to the desire to introduce new variations of the game that add excitement and complexity to the gameplay. By adding the rule regarding the come-out roll, High Point Craps offers players a unique twist on the traditional game, creating additional suspense and strategic considerations.

In High Point Craps, the come-out roll becomes a critical moment for players, as they aim to establish a point that falls within the designated range. This introduces an element of risk and unpredictability , as players must conscientiously consider their bets and anticipate the outcome of the roll.

3. Simplified Craps  

Simplified Craps is a streamlined version of the traditional game, designed to offer a quicker and easier gameplay experience. In this variant, the rules are simplified, and the betting options are reduced, making it accessible to players of all levels of experience.

The origins of Simplified Craps can be traced back to the desire to introduce a more casual and beginner-friendly version of the game. By simplifying the rules and betting options, Simplified Craps aims to eliminate some of the complexities and nuances of traditional craps, allowing players to focus on the excitement of the dice rolls.

In Simplified Craps, the betting options are typically limited to basic bets such as the Pass Line and Don't Pass Line, with additional bets like Come and Don't Come being omitted. The come-out roll remains a crucial moment, as players wager on whether the shooter will roll a 7 or 11 to win on the Pass Line, or a 2, 3, or 12 to win on the Don't Pass Line.

4. Die Rich Craps  

Die Rich Craps is a variant of traditional craps that offers a unique twist on the game by focusing on specific outcomes of the dice rolls. In this variation, players bet on the exact combination of the dice rather than traditional point numbers or totals.

The origins of Die Rich Craps can be traced back to the desire to introduce a more personalized and customizable experience for players. By allowing players to bet on specific dice combinations, Die Rich Craps adds an extra layer of excitement and anticipation to the game.

In Die Rich Craps, players can place bets on individual numbers that they believe will appear on the dice, such as betting on a specific pair of numbers (e.g., two 4s) or a total sum (e.g., the dice totaling 7). The payouts for these bets vary depending on the likelihood of the specific outcome occurring, with rarer combinations offering higher payouts

5. New York Craps  

New York Craps is a difference of the traditional game that was popular in the Eastern United States, particularly in the New York City area. This version of craps differs from the standard game in several key aspects, including the layout of the table and the rules governing certain bets.

One of the most notable differences in New York Craps is the layout of the table itself. Unlike the traditional layout found in casinos across the world, New York Craps tables feature only one dealer, known as the “stickman,” who is responsible for handling the dice and overseeing the game. Additionally, the layout of the betting areas may differ slightly, with some variations in the placement of certain bets.

Another distinguishing feature of New York Craps is the rule regarding the come-out roll. In this variant, a roll of 11 or 12 on the come-out roll results in an automatic win for Pass Line bets and a push for Don't Pass Line bets. This differs from the standard rules, where a roll of 11 results in a win and a roll of 12 is typically a push for both types of bets.

Additionally, New York Craps may feature variations in the rules governing certain bets, such as the Field Bet and Proposition Bets. These variations can add an extra layer of excitement and strategy to the game, as players must adapt their strategies to the specific rules of the variant they are playing.

6. Diceless Craps  

Diceless Craps is a unique variation of the traditional game that offers players an alternative way to enjoy the excitement of craps without the use of dice. In this variant, players place bets on the outcome of simulated dice rolls, typically generated by electronic devices or random number generators (RNGs).

The origins of Diceless Craps can be traced back to the desire to provide players with a more controlled and predictable gaming experience. By eliminating physical dice from the equation, Diceless Craps removes the element of chance associated with dice rolls and allows for more precise and calculated outcomes.

In Diceless Craps, players still place bets on traditional craps options such as the Pass Line, Don't Pass Line, Come, Don't Come, and various proposition bets. However, instead of rolling physical dice, the outcome of each roll is determined by the electronic or RNG system, which generates random numbers to simulate the results of the dice rolls.

7. Craps with Both Cards and Dice  

Craps with both cards and dice, sometimes known as “Card Craps,” is an intriguing hybrid variation of the traditional game that combines elements of craps with aspects of card games such as poker. In this variant, players use both dice and cards to determine the outcome of each roll, offering a unique and dynamic gameplay experience.

In Craps with both cards and dice, players typically use dice to establish the point and determine the initial outcome of each roll. Once the point has been established, players may then use cards to influence the subsequent rolls and potentially alter the outcome of the game.

One common variation of Craps with both cards and dice involves players receiving a hand of cards that they can use to “bump” or “nudge” the dice rolls in their favor. For example, players may have cards that allow them to increase the odds of rolling a certain number or combination, or cards that allow them to reroll the dice if they are not satisfied with the initial outcome.

8. Open Craps, Fading Craps, or Money Craps  

Open Craps, Fading Craps, or Money Craps are all terms that refer to variations of the traditional game of craps, each with its own unique rules and characteristics.

Open Craps: Open Craps is a form of the game where players are allowed to make additional bets after the come-out roll. In traditional craps, players typically place their bets before the come-out roll, and no further bets are allowed until the shooter either establishes a point or rolls a seven-out. However, in Open Craps, players have the option to place additional bets at any point during the game, even after the point has been established. This adds an extra layer of excitement and strategy to the game, as players can adjust their bets based on the outcome of each roll.

Fading Craps: Fading Craps is a variation of the game where players take turns acting as the “bank” or “house” and accepting bets from other players. In traditional craps, the casino always serves as the bank and pays out winnings to players based on the outcome of each roll. However, in Fading Craps, players have the opportunity to take on the role of the bank and accept bets from other players. This adds an element of rivalry and interaction to the game, as players must strictly manage their bankroll and make strategic decisions about which bets to accept and which to decline.  

Money Craps: Money Craps is a variation of the game where players wager money directly against each other, rather than against the house or casino. In traditional craps, players place bets with the casino, and winnings are paid out by the house based on the outcome of each roll. However, in Money Craps, players bet against each other, with the winner of each roll collecting the stakes from the other players. This creates a more competitive and social atmosphere, as players compete directly against each other for the chance to win money.  

9. Scarney Craps  

Scarney Craps is a fascinating variation of the traditional game that was developed by John Scarne, a renowned authority on gambling and card games. Unlike standard craps, which is played with dice, Scarney Craps is played using cards instead of dice, offering players a unique twist on the classic game.

In Scarney Craps, players use a special deck of cards that simulates the outcomes of rolling two dice. The deck consists of 36 cards, with each card representing one of the possible combinations of two dice rolls (from 2 to 12). For example, there is one card each for the combinations of rolling a 2, a 3, a 4, and so on, up to a 12.

The game begins with the dealer shuffling the deck of cards and dealing out two cards to represent the shooter's roll. Players then place their bets based on the outcome of the roll, just as they would in traditional craps. For example, players can bet on whether the shooter will roll a certain number, a total sum, or a combination of numbers.

Once the bets are placed, the dealer reveals the two cards, and the outcome of the roll is determined based on the combination represented by the cards. Payouts are then made to the players based on the outcome of their bets, just as in traditional craps.

10. Low Limit Craps  

Low Limit Craps is a variation of the traditional game that caters specifically to players who prefer to wager smaller amounts of money. In traditional craps, players often encounter minimum bet requirements set by the casino, which can be higher than what some players are comfortable with. Low Limit Craps addresses this issue by offering lower minimum bets, making the game more reachable to a wider range of players.

The rules and gameplay of Low Limit Craps are typically the same as those of traditional craps. Players still place bets on the outcome of the shooter's roll, with options including Pass Line bets, Don't Pass bets, Come bets, Don't Come bets, and various proposition bets. The main difference lies in the minimum bet requirements, which are typically lower in Low Limit Craps games.

One of the key benefits of Low Limit Craps is that it allows players to enjoy the excitement and thrill of craps without having to risk large amounts of money. This makes the game more approachable for casual players or those who are new to craps and may not be comfortable wagering larger sums of money. Additionally, Low Limit Craps can be a great option for players who want to stretch their bankrolls and make their gambling budget last longer.