We bet you can’t forget the iconic scene where suave James Bond handles craps dice “like a monkey handles coconuts.” Taking a cue from his quaint winning strategies, you might believe there is something in the throw of hands that can win 50 grand! What was it? Even though it is traditionally a game of chance, craps have been addressed with numerous playing strategies to enhance winning odds. The most renowned ones are the “Pass Line” and the “Iron Cross.”
It can really make sense in land-based establishments, but there is much doubt as to whether the whole concept of “strategies” really applies to online casino establishments. With RNG-based technology and all. You’d be thrilled to know that craps games are coming back to the forefront for having the best odds for certain bets. With modern iGaming platforms like mrbet offering exciting bonuses and rewards to go with it, the table is becoming the most exciting spot to be, even on iGaming sites.
Get a clear-cut idea in this article, which delves deeper into the mathematics of the two most popular craps strategies. Get a realistic idea of what works and what doesn’t.
All About Craps and the Best Playing Strategies
Craps is a table game which derives from the European dice-based entertainment, Hazard. It is one of those few games that offers the best of both worlds: fun and simple gameplay and high winning potential.
When it comes to effective gaming strategies, Making Pass/Don’t Pass and Come/Don’t Come bets are both substantial for conscious players. The rationale is that the house edge is only 1.41% if you stick to these bets alone. If you lay or take odds, it’s even possible to further lower the house edge (down to 1.36%). Let’s have a look at how these strategies work.
The Pass Line Strategy
This is the simplest and most commonly used technique. It’s an excellent choice for beginners and offers a low house edge. Here’s how it works:
- Come-Out Roll: The game begins with a come-out roll, and you place your line passing bet;
- Roll a 7 or 11: If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, you win even money on your bet. This is known as a “natural”;
- Roll a 2, 3, or 12: If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, you lose your bet. This is called “crapping out”;
- Roll Any Other Number: If the shooter rolls any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10), that number becomes the “point.” To win, the shooter must roll the point again before rolling a 7. If a 7 is rolled first, you lose your bet.
The Iron Cross Strategy
Rather complex in nature, this tactic is mostly favored by seasoned players due to its potential for larger wins. Here’s the essential information about this technique:
- Place Bets: It is possible to place additional bets on the 5, 6, and 8 positions on the craps table. These are known as “place bets”;
- Roll a 7: If the shooter rolls a 7, you lose your Pass Line bet but win on your place bets for the 5, 6, and 8 positions. This helps offset your loss;
- Roll the Point: If the shooter establishes a point (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10), you hope to win on your place bets while avoiding a 7. If the point is rolled before a 7, you win your Pass Line bet as well as your place bets.
As a matter of fact, the Iron Cross strategy can yield significant wins if the shooter rolls numbers other than 7. However, it carries a higher house edge, usually around 2.78%, making it riskier than the previously described strategy.
Things to Consider When Choosing Your Strategy
The choice between the two strategies ultimately depends on your risk tolerance and playing style. Here are some considerations to help you decide: Pass Line & Iron Cross?
- Beginner vs. Experienced Player: If you’re new to craps, the first option is an excellent starting point due to its simplicity and lower house edge. Experienced players who can handle more complex strategies may prefer the other technique instead;
- Risk Tolerance: The first strategy offers lower risk, while the second can lead to bigger wins but also bigger losses. Assess your comfort level with risk before choosing a strategy;
- Bankroll Size: Risky strategies are not a good gambling move for low rollers. Don’t neglect your bankroll size while trying your luck. It becomes an obsession for many players;
- House Edge: Get a lower house edge, making it a safer long-term option for conservative players.
The application and success of each strategy have a lot to do with the personal preferences and experience of players. And not to forget, this is, after all, a game of luck. Practise the game with an open mind.
Hone Your Craps Skills With Confidence
It is safe to say that both techniques described in this post are viable craps strategies. It does not mean that if one works, the other doesn’t.
Judging by their natures, the Pass Line is a relatively safer choice for beginners and risk-averse players, while the Iron Cross can provide more excitement and potential for substantial wins, albeit with higher risk.
Remember that mastering the art of craps may not be rocket science, but it takes a lot of patience and engagement. You must secure the bankroll you can afford to lose while trying high-risk strategies. Take one step closer at a time, and enjoy the thrill and entertainment that this game offers. The more you enjoy the game, the more confident you will become with your strategies.
