Craps Strategy: How to Play and Win as a South African Player

What is Craps?  

Craps is a dice game where players bet on the outcome of a roll or series of rolls. It’s played with two dice on a large table marked with various betting options. The shooter rolls the dice, and players wager on results like “Pass Line,” “Don’t Pass,” or specific number combinations. Originating in the United States from an old English game called “Hazard”, craps has become a global casino staple. In South Africa, you’ll find craps in major venues like Sun City and across many online casinos. It’s a fast, thrilling game that combines luck, strategy, and non-stop action.

How to Play Craps: Rules for Beginners

Craps might look complex at first, but the basics are easy to learn. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1.       The Come-Out Roll:

The game starts with the come-out roll. The shooter (dice roller) rolls two dice.

• If the total is 7 or 11, Pass Line Bets win.

• If the total is 2,3, or 12, Pass Line Bets lose (called “craps”).

• Any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10) becomes the point.

2.       The Point Phase:

Once a point is set, the shooter keeps rolling.

• If the point number is rolled again before a 7, Pass Line bets win.

• If a 7 is rolled first, Pass Line bets lose (called “seven out”)

3.       Betting Basics:

• Pass Line Bet: You’re betting the shooter will win.

• Don’t Pass Bet: You’re betting the shooter will lose.

These are the simplest bets for beginners, with the best odds.

Where Can South Africans Play?

South Africans can legally enjoy craps online through licensed platforms like Hollywoodbets, Betway, and Supabets. These sites offer live dealer games and digital craps with secure banking in rand. Always choose casinos regulated by the Western Cape Gambling Board or other approved authorities for a safe gaming experience.

Understanding Craps Bets

Pass Line

The Pass Line is the most popular bet in craps, and the best starting point for beginners.

How it works:

• Place your bet before the come-out roll.

• Win if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11.

• Lose if they roll 2, 3, or 12.

• If another number is rolled (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10), that becomes the point. You win if it’s rolled again before a 7.

Beginner Tip:

Stick to the Pass Line and add an Odds Bet later for better payouts. Avoid risky proposition bets until you gain experience.

Don't Pass

The Don’t Pass bet is the opposite of the Pass Line. You’re betting that the shooter will lose.

How it works:Place your bet before the come-out roll.

• Win if the shooter rolls 2 or 3.

• Lose on 7 or 11.

• A 12 is a push (tie).

• If a point is set, you win if the shooter rolls a 7 before the point.

Beginner Tip:

Don’t Pass is a strong, safe bet mathematically. If you don’t mind going against the crowd, it’s a smart choice. Keep it simple and avoid complex bets early on.

Come

The Come bet works just like a Pass Line bet, but can be made after the come-out roll.

How it works:

• Place your Come bet any time after a point is set.

• Win if the next roll is 7 or 11.

• Lose on 2, 3, or 12.

• Any other number becomes your personal point; if it’s rolled again before a 7, you win.

Beginner Tip:

Stick to Pass Line and Come bets to keep things simple and maximise your odds.

Don't Come

The Don’t Come bet is the opposite of a Come bet and can be placed after the come-out roll.

How it works:

• Win if the next roll is 2 or 3.

• Lose on 7 or 11. 12 is a push.

• Any other number becomes your point. You win if 7 comes before that number.

Beginner Tip:

Don’t Come bets are mathematically solid. If you’re comfortable going against the table, it’s a safe option to add to your strategy.

Odds

Odds bets are optional side bets you can place after a point is established on a Pass, Don’t Pass, Come, or Don’t Come bet.

How it works:

• Bet extra “odds” behind your main bet.

• If the point hits (or fails, for Don’t Pass/Come), you win with true odds; no house edge.

Beginner Tip:

Always take Odds when possible. Start with small amounts and stick to Pass Line + Odds for a safe, smart approach.

Field

A Field bet is a one-roll wager that the next roll will be 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12.

How it works:

• Win if one of those numbers is rolled.

• Lose if it’s 5, 6, 7, or 8.

• Some casinos pay extra on 2 and 12.

Beginner Tip:

Field bets are fun but risky. Stick with safer bets like Pass Line and Odds while learning the game. Use Field bets occasionally.

Hardways

Hardways bets are wagers that a specific double, 2+2 (4), 3+3 (6), 4+4 (8), or 5+5 (10), will be rolled before a 7 or the same total made the “easy” way.

How it works:

• Bet on a number being rolled as a pair (e.g., 4+4 = hard 8).

• Lose if a 7 comes or if that total appears any other way (e.g., 6+2 = easy 8).

Beginner Tip:

Hardways look fun, but they’re not great for long-term play. Stick with Pass line and Odds while learning, and save Hardways for occasional small side bets.

Proposition Bets

Proposition bets are the one-roll bets placed in the center of the craps table. These include bets like Any 7, Any Craps, Snake Eyes (2), Yo (11), and others.

How it works:

• You’re betting on a specific outcome on the next roll.

• Payouts are high; up to 30:1; but odds are low.

Beginner Tip:

Avoid proposition bets when starting out. They’re tempting but risky. Stick to low-edge bets like Pass Line, Don’t Pass, and Odds until you’ve mastered the basics.

Craps Strategy: Best Tips to Win

Winning at craps isn’t just about luck; it’s about smart play. Here are the core strategies every player should know, especially if you’re looking for effective craps winning tips for South Africans.

1.       Stick with Pass Line + Odds:

The best strategy for beginners is to combine a Pass Line bet with an Odds bet. This combo offers the lowest house edge and maximises your chances of consistent wins. Don’t Pass and Don’t Come with odds are also strong options for more advanced players.

2.       Avoid Risky Bets:

Steer clear of bets like the Field, Hardways, and proposition bets. While the payouts look tempting, they come with a high edge and can quickly drain your bankroll.

3.       Manage Your Bankroll:

Decide how much you’re willing to spend before you start playing. Set limits and never chase losses. Consistent, controlled betting keeps you in the game longer.

4.       Use Consistent Bet Sizing:

Avoid going all-in on any roll. Bet a small percentage of your bankroll per round, typically 1-5%, to stay in control.

South African players can enjoy craps on licensed platforms offering secure play in rand. Use these tips to boost your odds and play smarter every time you hit the table.

Advanced Craps Strategies

Once you’ve mastered the basics, experienced players may explore advanced craps strategies for more control and variety.

• 3-Point Molly Strategy: This involves a Pass Line bet with Odds, plus two active Come bets with Odds. It spreads risk and keeps action on multiple numbers while sticking to low-house-edge bets.

• Iron Cross: You bet on the Field, plus Place bets on 5, 6, and 8, covering almost every number except 7. It offers frequent wins, but a 7 wipes out all bets.

• Dice Control: Some players claim they can influence dice outcomes through controlled throws. It’s highly controversial and unproven, but some skilled players swear by it.

These strategies require discipline, experience, and bankroll management.

Where Can South Africans Play Craps Online?

1.       Springbok Casino

• Licensed offshore, accepts ZAR via EasyEFT, EFT, Visa/Mastercard

• Offers live dealer craps, mobile-ready design, and R500 no-deposit + generous match bonuses

2.       Yebo Casino

• ZAR deposits via EasyEFT, banking local cards

• Mobile-friendly, R350 no-deposit bonus + welcome offers

3.       Omni/Superior/Slots Heaven (via BeingMe)

• Support for Bitcoin, Neteller, Skrill, local EFT methods

4.       Interbet

• Live dealer craps, EFT/Ozow/SnapScan deposits, loyalty cashback system

5.       Punt Casino

• Accepts Rands from all provinces, provides mobile/tablet play for craps

Deposit methods: EFT, Ozow, SnapScan, local debit/credit cards, e-wallets (Skrill/Neteller), and crypto options like Bitcoin.

Bonuses: Expect enticing no-deposit spins or credits (R350-R500) and first-deposit match bonuses up to R2,000+.

Mobile Compatibility: All sites are fully responsive or app-based, ensuring smooth craps play on Android, iPhone, iPad, or Windows devices.

South Africans can confidently explore these licensed and reliable platforms, designed with secure banking, great bonuses, and seamless mobile use, for top-tier craps action.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Playing Craps

Even experienced players fall into traps that hurt their chances. The most common mistake is chasing losses; doubling bets after a losing streak rarely works and quickly drains your bankroll. Over-betting is another issue; wagering too much per roll increases risk and reduces your playing time. Also, many beginners misunderstand the odds, placing high-risk bets like the Field or proposition bets without realising their poor payout ratios.

Practical advice:

• Set a strict budget and stick to it.

• Bet small, consistent amounts (1-5% of your bankroll).

• Focus on smart bets like Pass Line + Odds.

• Never try to “win it all back” in one roll.

Discipline and patience are just as important as strategy if you want to win long-term.

Is Craps Legal in South Africa?

Yes, craps is legal in South Africa, but only through licensed and regulated operators. The National Gambling Board oversees all gambling activities, ensuring that local casinos adhere to strict legal standards. Land-based casinos like Sun City are fully licensed to offer craps.

Is online craps legal in South Africa?

Online gambling is legal only if the operator holds a valid license from a South African provincial authority. However, many players access offshore casinos, which operate in a legal grey area. While not officially endorsed, playing on reputable, well-regulated offshore sites is common. Always check licensing and ensure secure banking options when playing online.

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Responsible Gambling

Craps is fun, but it’s crucial to gamble responsibly. Always set a budget, never chase losses, and know when to walk away. If you feel your gambling is becoming a problem, reach out to support services like the National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP) at 0800 006008.

Reputable betting sites support responsible gambling by:

• Requiring ID checks to prevent underage gambling

• Offering deposit, wager, and time limits

• Allowing players to self-exclude or take time-outs

• Providing access to gambling support resources

These tools help players to stay in control and enjoy the game safely. If you’re playing craps online, use platforms that promote responsible gambling and take your well-being seriously.