Dice-based games have provided entertainment for thousands of years, from ancient civilizations gambling with astragali ankle bones to today's widespread casino favorites like craps. Their longevity owes to the sheer simplicity yet unpredictability of rolled dice. If you're new to this category of casino play, here is an easy-to follow primer on fundamentals and key topics.
Dice Game Essentials #
Dice games rely on classic 6-sided cubic dice numbered 1 to 6. Gameplay centers on wagering what numbers will show face up after a randomizing roll or series of rolls. Players can bet on outcomes like a single number hitting on one die, the combined sum of multiple dice, particular number combinations, or odd/even total results.
To begin each round, the shooter shakes then rolls the dice within a protective container to produce haphazard outcomes. Once the dice settle, winning wagers are paid out per the game’s defined odds while losing bets forfeit to the house. Then a new round starts with players able to adjust their bets.
Popular Casino Dice Offerings #
Craps - The most renowned dice game uses two dice. Play revolves around the shooter rolling specific numbers like 7 or 11 to win. There are also dozens of side bet options on varied numeric results like snake eyes or boxcars.
Sic Bo - Meaning "dice pair", this fast-paced game involves betting on the totals of three rapidly shaken and revealed dice ranging from 3 to 18. Side bets also exist on specific 3 dice combinations.
Chuck-a-Luck - A simple caged dice amusement focused solely on the numbers 1-6 on each of three quickly rolled dice. Also features a “field” bet for any triples or high totals from 12-18.
Hazard - An old English predecessor to craps but only utilizing two dice. Gameplay centers on a main single roll bet to hit specific numbers which pays even money. Additional bets on totals, pairs, or under/over 10.5.
Ship, Captain, and Crew - Uniquely involves two stages of dice rolls - predicting which die shows the “captain” (higher number) vs the “crew” (lower number). Features specialty side bets on ties, straights, suited combos, etc.
Key Strategies #
Due to the inherent luck factor, no skill or strategy fundamentally improves dice game odds. However, those new to dice should keep these key tips in mind:
- Set a gambling bankroll and stick to bet limits
- Understand all the types of bets and their payout ratios
- Focus on making the table minimum wagers with best probabilities
- Avoid sucker bets like single number bets (unless jackpot hunting)
- Review free play guides to learn game flows before betting real money
Top Casinos for Online Dice Games #
For convenience and most variety, playing dice games online is ideal. Our favorite casinos to play online dice include:
1. DuckyLuck - Offers specialty games like craps and the popular game Miami Dice. Check out our DuckyLuck casino review here.
2. Bovada - Popular for practice or real money craps. Complete authentic rules plus new player deposit bonuses. Read our Bovada review here.
3. Las Atlantis - Great for playing dice and offers a great welcome bonus too. See our extensive Las Atlantis review for more info.
Online casinos provide 24/7 access to play genuine dice games complete with sounds and presentation for an immersive experience from home. First-time sign-up and reload bonuses also give you valuable extra bankroll boosts.
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Understanding Dice Probabilities #
Due to the inherent randomness involved, no skill or strategy fundamentally improves overall dice game odds. However each type of wager carries different mathematical probabilities, payout ratios, and house advantages that affect gameplay expected value. Rookie players should focus bets on wagers with lowest house edges for best odds, while avoiding solitary number bets with extremely high risk due to the low 1 in 6 chance of hitting. Here is a table outlining all the different outcomes in dice:
| Dice Bet | Odds | Probability | House Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Any Craps (2,3,12) | 8:1 | 13.89% | 11.11% |
| Ace Deuce (Aces or Deuces) | 15:1 | 8.33% | 11.11% |
| Snake Eyes (Double 1s) | 30:1 | 2.78% | 11.11% |
| Boxcars (Double 6s) | 30:1 | 2.78% | 11.11% |
| Big 6 | 1:1 | 16.67% | 9.09% |
| Big 8 | 1:1 | 16.67% | 9.09% |
| Field | 1:1 if 12 rolls; 2:1 if 2 or 12 rolls |
16.67% | 2.78% |
| Any 7 | 5:4 | 41.67% | 2.78% |
| Craps Numbers (4,5,6,8,9,10) | 7:6 | 50.00% | 1.85% |
| Pass Line | 1:1 | 49.29% | 1.36% |
| Odds on Pass Line | 2:1 or 3:2 | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Quick tips:
- Single number bets like snake eyes have very low odds
- Field bet has lowest house edge
- Odds on Pass Line bet has no house advantage
Dice vs Other Casino Games #
Dice pastimes like craps and Sic Bo hold an enduring appeal amongst casino games for their simplicity, sociability, and focus on suspenseful randomness once the cubes tumble. But in what ways do dice tables differ from other common gaming options you’ll encounter on casino floors and sites?
| Game Type | Skill Element | House Edge | Example Games | Key Differences to Dice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dice Games | None, pure chance | 1-15% | Craps, Sic Bo, Chuck-a-Luck | n/a |
| Table Games | Moderate for card counting | <1% to 5%+ | Blackjack, Baccarat, Roulette | No dice used; mix of cards, wheel spins, fixed odds |
| Slots | Minimal overall | 2%-10%+ | Video & classic slots, video poker | No dice or skill; solitary electronic play |
| Poker | High influence of skill | Rake up to 5% | Texas Hold'em, Omaha, 7-Card Stud | Skill & psychology central; rake vs house edge |
Dice vs Table Games
The main differentiation is dice rely purely on random chance once rolled, versus table games incorporating decks of cards or roulette involving at least minor elements of skill or strategy. However both offer lively communal play and similar house edge profiles averaging 2-5%.
Dice vs Slots
Both dice and slots offer very chance-centric outcomes. However slot machine play is a largely solitary experience focused on individual e-screens with minimal player interactions. Dice foster far more communal experience and camaraderie around the physical table as patrons collectively anticipate, cheer, and bemoan each roll’s results.
Dice vs Poker
While poker incorporates some dice-style hand elements, skill and psychology play a much heavier role given you’re competing directly against other players. This contrasts dice against the house. Poker also utilizes rake versus a fixed house edge. Both offer great social gameplay with chatter though.
At their core, dice have remained popular for centuries thanks to their straightforward yet suspenseful, luck-based mechanics centered around random tumbling outcomes. Dice open fun communal interactions when played socially in lively casino settings. So if you enjoy high random anticipation and great table camaraderie, bounce down to the dice pits! Just be wise with your wagers in light of the complete luck factor once those cubes fly!
Dice Game Glossary #
Here are definitions of some common dice terminology useful for new players learning game lingo:
Shooter - The player currently rolling the dice
Point - The target number that the shooter must roll again to win after the come out roll
Come out roll - The first roll opening a round
On the horn - A bet placed on 2, 3, 11, or 12
Boxman - The casino official supervising the craps table
Snake eyes - When the two dice both land on 1
Boxcars - When two dice land on 6-6
Etiquette Tips for Live Dice Play #
If playing at a physical casino, familiarize yourself with proper dice handling and casino etiquette including:
- Never throw dice off the table as it can damage the floor or chips
- Wait for dice to stop moving before touching or grabbing them
- Tip dealers when you have any big winning hands
- Place bets clearly inside the appropriate betting areas
- Avoid reaching over bets or players to place wagers
Following the established culture makes for smooth, enjoyable gameplay experiences.
Key Differences in Online vs Live Dealer Dice #
For convenience plus the widest variety, most play dice games online. Key differences vs land-based include:
Randomness - Online games use certified random number generators (RNG) to ensure fair rolls. Live dealer relies on manual rolls.
Betting - Digital play features intuitive computerbet placement and payouts vs manual chip handling.
Accessibility - Internet dice games can be played 24/7 with more low limit options. Live venues have seating limitations and closing hours.
Bonuses - Online incentives like sign-up bonuses, rebates, and loyalty programs generally don’t exist at brick-and-mortars.
Atmosphere - Live dealer provides a social experience and energy like cheering big wins. Digital play focuses on convenience and flexibility.
Both formats have their perks for enjoying dice games. Overall online play translates the games smoothly while optimizing accessibility and bonuses.
Alternative Dice Games #
Beyond casino staples, there are hundreds of regional dice game variants played globally including:
Backgammon - Players move stones between triangles on a board based on rolled dice combinations in this classic ancient game.
Crown and Anchor - Popular British pub game involving betting on which symbols land face up on three dice.
Pai Gow - Chinese domino and dice game where players arrange dominos into two best hands out of seven cards dealt.
Exploring niche and cultural dice amusements provides tons of fresh gaming entertainment!