How to Play Starburst: A Step-by-Step Guide

Starburst Symbols

The Startburst icons are colored gems. The addition of Lucky 7 and BAR flashes back to the fruit machines of yesteryear.

Here’s a Starburst symbol payout chart based on bet level one:

Starburst Paylines

Starburst is a 10-payline game, which is not unusual. However, unlike most online slots, the Starburst paylines pay in both directions: from right to left and the usual left to right. This is another notable feature that this slot offers. Below, you’ll find how the paylines in Starburst are paid out, which shows various different combinations, including horizontal, diagonal, and zigzag paylines.

Starburst Bonus

There is no specific cutaway bonus or feature round in Starburst. However, it does offer some enticing features that are certain to excite players of this popular slot game.

• Starburst wilds: These are wild symbols that expand to cover an entire reel. They appear on reels 2, 3, or 4.
• Re-spins: When a Starburst Wild expands, you get a free re-spin. If more Wilds appear, you get another re-spin, up to three in a row.

Starburst RTP & Volatility

The Starburst slot’s RTP (Return to Player) is around 96.09%. That means, on average, players receive back $96.09 for every $100 wagered. This is higher than the average.

The game’s volatility is low. This means frequent but smaller wins, making it ideal for casual play. It makes gameplay a lot of fun.

However, even low-volatility slots don’t guarantee wins. Make sure to play within your budget and take frequent breaks.

Slingo Starburst 

Slingo Starburst is a clever mash-up of real money slots and bingo.

Instead of traditional slot reels, the goal is to complete horizontal, vertical, and diagonal lines on a 5×5 bingo-style grid. These lines are called ‘Slingos’ (SLots + bINGO). At the bottom of the screen, five numbers spin. Each play consists of ten spins. If the spinning numbers match those in the grid above, they are marked off. 

Complete a line, and you will earn a Slingo. It’s more or less the same as bingo.

You can also get:

• Starburst wilds: Like in the original slot, these wilds substitute for other symbols to help complete Slingos.
• Re-spins: Some versions of the game offer extra spins to keep the grid moving.
• Bonus spins & instant prizes: Higher Slingo scores can unlock bonus spins on the regular Starburst slot game. You can also win directly.
• Super wilds & blockers: Power-ups and hazards can appear, as per other Slingo titles.

When you reach the end of your allocated ten spins, you can pay for extra spins to try and win more Slingos if you wish to do so. However, the cost of each spin rapidly accelerates as the Slingos fill up. You can end up staking more money than you can even win.

This is a brilliant hybrid game, but don’t chase those Slingos and remember to gamble responsibly!

Starburst Slots: Pros and Cons

The positives certainly outweigh the negatives when it comes to Starburst slots. The game has stood the test of time and remains a shining example. This is a game with a serious portfolio and a proven track record.

Our Personal Experience on Starburst Slots

There’s a reason this online slot continues to thrive: it’s good. It may resemble a forgotten Atari console game, but it plays beautifully. Starburst is the perfect blend of simple gameplay and low volatility; those wins keep hitting in both directions.

Since its release, it’s spawned two sequels: Starburst XXXtreme and Starburst Galaxy, and a bizarre bingo/slots mutant that could have been called Bots instead of Slingo.

If you want to give this absolute stone-cold classic online slot a run for its money, head to the launchpad, start the countdown, and get ready to head for the stars.

FAQs

References

• https://sbcnews.co.uk/featurednews/2021/02/02/ukgc-bans-online-slots-autoplay-and-quickspin-features/ (SBCNEWS)

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In a move that demonstrates CDI’s push to diversify and strengthen its regional footprint, the news follows the release last month of its $642.6 million Q1 revenue report. This represented a 9% year-over-year increase from 2024.

Opened on July 9, Casino Salem is located at The Mall at Rockingham Park in Salem and is ideally situated to tap into the Boston market, just 30 minutes from the Downtown region.

The venue currently operates approximately 100 historical horse racing machines (HRMs), accompanied by a designated gaming area featuring 13 live dealer tables.

Developers Retain Operational Control with Future Rebranding on the Cards

Despite obtaining a majority share, the casino’s local developers, Joe Faro and Sal Lupoli, will retain ownership interests in the venture relating to their ongoing roles in the further development and management of Casino Salem.

In a statement, developers Faro and Lupoli commented: “With our vision for Salem, we remain committed to driving economic stimulus to our local economy, creating new jobs, and increasing tourism while delivering a world-class destination that will create lasting benefits for the community for decades.”

CDI has also expressed interest in expanding the gaming floor, as well as introducing several food and beverage outlets in the coming months. 

Additionally, they are expected to rebrand the venue, subject to the completion of the agreement.

The reasoning behind the planned rebrand and expansion is to upscale Casino Salem into a state-of-the-art regional gaming and entertainment venue, to boost CDI’s in-person casino portfolio offerings.

CDI’s Strategic Shift From Sports Betting

Industry analysts believe CDI’s latest acquisition of Casino Salem demonstrates the firm’s desire to expand its presence in the New Hampshire gaming sector, having already attained the neighboring Chasers Poker Room in Salem in 2022.

However, CDI’s statement on Monday maintained that Churchill Downs will continue to run Chasers Poker Room as a separate entity from the Casino Salem procurement.

Further details about the purchase were included in the press release, stating: “The Company will finance the Salem Transaction using its existing credit facility. Closing of the Transaction is subject to usual and customary closing conditions, including receipt of approval by the New Hampshire Lottery Commission. The Transaction is anticipated to close during the third quarter of 2025.”

The news also comes just five months after Churchill Downs shut its doors on its sports betting premises in February of this year, reflecting the organization’s continued shift towards gaming and entertainment venues, such as Chasers Poker Room and Casino Salem.

The post Churchill Downs Eyes New Hampshire Expansion with Casino Salem Deal appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Assembly Bill 831 (AB 831), sponsored by Assemblymember Avelino Valencia, passed through its second major hurdle on July 15. It passed through the Senate Public Safety Committee with a 6-0 vote. Last week, the Senate Governmental Organization Committee advanced the proposed legislation with a 15-0 vote.

AB 831 now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee, which has an upcoming meeting on August 18.

Bill Opposition Grows

AB 831 receives significant backing from tribal gaming representatives and industry associations such as the American Gaming Association and the Sports Betting Alliance. However, it’s also gathering a large coalition of opponents including the SPGA, which represents the interests of sweepstakes casinos and advocates for responsible social casino gaming.

On July 14, the SPGA announced that several high-profile organizations have joined efforts against the bill:

• ACLU California Action
• American Transaction Processors Coalition
• Association of National Advertisers
• Californians United for a Responsible Budget
• SPGA
• Social Gaming Leadership Alliance
• Virtual Gaming World

These groups represent a wide range of interests, from civil liberties to major corporate brands. For example, Google, General Mills, and NBCUniversal are members of the Association of National Advertisers.

Meanwhile, the American Transaction Processors Coalition represents financial institutions like Bank of America and Paysafe.

In a press release, SPGA emphasized the importance of this broad coalition, stating:

“This diverse coalition, including civil liberties advocates, leading businesses, and industry groups, reflects a shared belief that the bill, as written, could have unintended consequences for lawful promotional practices without offering clear consumer protections.”

Opponents have criticized the bill’s overly broad, rushed, and risky language, which was introduced via a “gut-and-amend” process that allowed for sweeping changes late in the legislative cycle.

Critics argue that the bill’s expansive provisions risk criminalizing not only operators but also suppliers, payment processors, and celebrity endorsers.

Proponents Stress Tribal Sovereignty and Consumer Protection

As with prior hearings, proponents of the ban included tribal gaming groups. They include the Yuhaaviatam of the San Manuel Nation, the California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA), and the Tribal Alliance of Sovereign Indian Nations (TASIN).

They argue that they hold exclusive rights to regulated gambling in California. Sweepstakes casinos undermine this exclusivity by operating illegally.

San Bernardino County District Attorney Jason Anderson spoke in favor of the prohibition. He noted that sweepstakes casinos lack consumer protection tools to prevent minors from accessing the platforms.

Anderson indicated that multiple states have now banned sweepstakes casinos.

He also clarified that the AB 831 language does not prohibit traditional sweepstakes. Furthermore, he added that the bill and the District Attorney’s office are not interested in penalizing players, but the operators, which are often offshore companies.

Legal Concerns and Planned Amendments

In opposition, Duane Morris partner Bill Gantz pointed out that some tribal groups operate social casinos with prizes of real-world value without any regulation or oversight.

He argued that there’s no evidence to support the claims of potential risks associated with the platforms. He added that they operate within California’s laws.

Meanwhile, in a written statement, the ACLU California Action warned that the bill’s broad language could potentially criminalize individuals involved in legitimate online sweepstakes, not just operators of sweepstakes casinos.

Responding to these concerns, the bill sponsor told the committee that upcoming amendments will clarify the bill’s scope:

“Things like payment processors, financial institutions, geolocation providers, media affiliates and also individuals would not be held liable if this bill were to pass. This is solely going to focus on the entities that are providing the sweepstakes types of platforms.”

The committee chair, Senator Jesse Arreguín, added that committee members and Valencia were able to come up with amendments that will focus on the operators and not other businesses and individuals.

The post ACLU, Industry Groups Unite Against California Sweepstakes Casino Ban Bill as AB 831 Advances appeared first on CasinoBeats.

In a written communication to its customers, BetMGM informed them that, starting today, it requires a $2.50 minimum bet on all wager types. Those include straight bets, parlays, Same Game Parlays, round robins, and bonus bets.

BetMGM is not alone in implementing a minimum wager requirement. Hard Rock Bet has already implemented a $2 minimum requirement for all bets.

The change by the two operators comes as a direct response to Illinois’ new two-tier tax structure on mobile sports bets. The law requires operators to pay $0.25 per bet on the first 20 million wagers. After that threshold, the tax rises to $0.50 per bet.

The new tax went into effect on July 1.

FanDuel, DraftKings, Fanatics Opt for Bet Surcharge

While BetMGM and Hard Rock Bet chose to set higher minimums, other major operators are passing the tax directly to bettors through surcharges.

FanDuel became the first operator to respond by announcing a $0.50 surcharge on all bets, starting September 1. The operator highlighted that the recent tax hike was the second in a year.

In 2024, FanDuel’s tax on gross gaming revenue rose from 15% to 40%. The platform claims it absorbed those costs in 2024. However, it now says it must pass them on to consumers to protect its margins.

FanDuel’s decision sent a shockwave through the industry, with observers closely watching to see how investors and analysts would respond.

As the response was relatively positive, FanDuel’s rival DraftKings also announced a $0.50 surcharge shortly after. DraftKings carefully timed its announcement. Last year, it introduced a similar surcharge, following the Illinois hike, but faced heavy scrutiny. That forced it to abandon the idea.

The third sports betting operator to impose a surcharge is Fanatics. However, unlike DraftKings and FanDuel, Fanatics decided to impose a $0.25 surcharge instead of $0.50 surcharge.

Observers note that the lower fee is due to Fanatics not being expected to exceed the 20 million bets threshold. At the same time, a large part of the wagers placed on FanDuel and DraftKings will fall under the higher $0.50 per bet tax.

Meanwhile, the remaining mobile sportsbooks in the state, bet365, BetRivers, Caesars, ESPN Bet, and Circa, have not indicated whether they will impose a surcharge or a minimum bet requirement in Illinois.

Credit Card Ban Advances in Illinois

In another potential blow to Illinois mobile sportsbooks, the state has moved one step closer to banning the use of credit cards to place sports bets. Illinois already prohibits the use of credit cards in casinos and video gaming establishments within the state.

In April, the Illinois Gaming Board unanimously approved a prohibition on credit card usage at sportsbooks. That advanced the proposal through the state’s administrative process.

The proposed amendment to the state’s gambling laws was officially published in the July 11 Illinois Register as part of the required rule-making protocol.

As part of the process, the amendment is now under review by the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules. The committee will hold a public comment period until August 25, after which it will make a decision. The next meeting is scheduled for August 13.

If the committee approves the change, it would prohibit retail and online sportsbooks from accepting credit cards for deposits. Debit cards and bank transfers (ACH) will still be available as payment methods.

With a ban, Illinois would join six other states with similar provisions. They include Rhode Island, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Tennessee.

The post BetMGM, Hard Rock Bet Impose Minimum Wagers in Illinois as New Tax Kicks In appeared first on CasinoBeats.

The Michigan studio will broadcast games to Caesars Palace Online Casino, Horseshoe Online Casino, and Caesars Sportsbook & Casino.

It includes five blackjack tables (one reserved for VIPs), one roulette table, and one baccarat table. All tables feature custom-branded felts featuring iconic Caesars destinations and each online casino platform.

Select tables also feature custom felts co-branded through partnerships with professional sports teams.

In a press release, Matthew Sunderland, Senior Vice President and Chief iGaming Officer at Caesars Digital, said:

“Our third live dealer studio expands our fully customized live dealer experience that is already extremely popular in Pennsylvania and New Jersey into another key jurisdiction where our online casino platforms are live.”

“The studio design takes inspiration from our flagship destination, Caesars Palace, to authentically recreate the atmosphere of Las Vegas for online players. We look forward to our Michigan players enjoying the new experience.”

Caesars’ Bespoke Game Strategy Continues to Grow

The branded live dealer studio marks another step in the company’s strategy of expanding its library with Caesars-branded content.

The operator unveiled its first bespoke game, Caesars Cleopatra, in August 2023, shortly after introducing its Caesars Palace Online Casino standalone app. The standalone casino’s goal was to deliver a better product, which would help the company gain a higher market share. To achieve that, Caesars employed a branded game strategy.

Since then, it has unveiled over a dozen bespoke games, including slots like:

• Caesars Palace
• Caesars Palace Megaways
• Caesars Cleopatra
• Caesars Fortune
• Caesars Emperors Gold
• Caesars Palace Garden of the Gods
• Caesars Palace Frenzy

Additional games include Caesars Palace Riches LuckyTap, Caesars Palace Slingo, Caesars Palace first-person blackjack, and the live dealer table games.

Branded Content Strategy Drives Market Share Gains

The bespoke product strategy has helped Caesars achieve some of the standalone app’s goals. In Michigan, the platform held a 4.5% market share in July 2023, a month before the debut of Caesars Cleopatra. That placed it in sixth spot out of 15 operators in the state.

A year later, in July 2024, Caesars Palace Online Casino’s market share had climbed to 6.3%, moving up one spot.

The latest data from Michigan shows that in May 2025, online casinos generated $251.5 million in gross gaming revenue, with Caesars Palace Online Casino capturing a 6.6% market share. While still in fifth place, it’s narrowing the gap to the fourth-placed BetRivers Casino, which had just over 7% market share.

A similar scenario is unfolding in New Jersey. For May, when online casinos generated $246.8 million in gross gaming revenue, Caesars Palace Online Casino captured a 7.3% market share. Caesar’s market share is nearly one percent higher than May 2024, when it held a 6.4% market share.

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The Lincoln Policy Group, founded by Sen. Lincoln, received $180,000 in payments from Kalshi, and Lincoln registered as a lobbyist for Kalshi last year. 

Lincoln’s letter to the CFTC supports the argument Kalshi has frequently made in court cases against state regulators, that prediction markets are governed at the federal level and beyond state control. 

“It is crucial that the CFTC make clear that all prediction markets fall entirely under its domain with no interference by states,” Lincoln wrote in the letter. 

“If a formal rule is necessary to achieve this goal, then the agency should not hesitate to act.”

Lincoln Implores CFTC to Let Markets Decide

After a change in administration, the CFTC has softened its stance towards the expansion of prediction markets into political and sports markets. 

Incoming Chair Brian Quintenz, a board member at Kalshi, indicated his openness to further expansion at a Senate hearing last month, despite opposition from state regulators and tribal groups. 

In a court case against Kalshi in New Jersey, 34 states, as well as over 60 tribal groups, and the American Gaming Association (AGA), all submitted briefs against sports prediction markets. 

The case is ongoing, as are legal battles in Nevada and Maryland, but Kalshi has so far secured favorable rulings from judges, allowing its markets to be offered in all 50 states. 

Lincoln believes that the CFTC should not cave to increasing pressure from states and tribes, among others. 

“Not surprisingly, the CFTC faces a lot of pressure right now to ban prediction markets, especially contracts tied to political elections or sporting events,” she wrote. 

“This would be a grave mistake for a number of reasons, and it would fly in the face of the agency’s long-standing policy of letting the markets decide.“

Lincoln Letter Contradicts Previous Comments

As highlighted by InGame, Sen. Lincoln’s recent letter to the CFTC stating support for sports prediction markets is in contrast to previous comments. 

During a 2010 Senate conversation, Lincoln said: “It would be quite easy to construct an ‘event contract’ around sporting events such as the Super Bowl, the Kentucky Derby, and Masters Golf Tournament. These types of contracts would not serve any real commercial purpose. Rather, they would be used solely for gambling.”

These words have been used in briefs filed against Kalshi in its legal fight in Maryland. However, in the letter, Lincoln writes a direct contradiction, stating that she now believes the Super Bowl does have a real commercial purpose.

From the letter, Lincoln states, “Sporting events like the Super Bowl also have strong commercial value because they have major impacts on advertising, apparel sales and the hospitality industry to name a few.”

The change in stance from Lincoln may well indicate that Kalshi’s lobbying efforts are paying off. According to Dustin Gouker at the Next Event Horizon, the company has spent $1 million on federal lobbying over the past five years. 

The post Lobbying Bet Pays Off for Kalshi as Former Senator Supports Prediction Markets appeared first on CasinoBeats.

What Is Sic Bo? A New Player’s Guide

Sic Bo is a fast-paced casino game where players bet on the outcome of a roll of three dice. The aim is to predict what numbers will appear: a specific total, a combination of dice, or a pattern of numbers.

You place your chips on the Sic Bo table, choosing areas on the layout that match your prediction. If the dice fall in your favor, you win. It’s that simple.

In many ways, Sic Bo is what you would get if you combined craps and roulette; like roulette, the table layout is complex, with dozens of options. However, three dice – not a roulette wheel – determine the outcome.

Sic Bo is a well-established casino classic in Macau and throughout Asia. Many Las Vegas casinos now feature Sic Bo tables. It’s gradually gaining traction in the West as more curious casino players try it.

Sic Bo Game Equipment and Setup

• Betting surface: The Sic Bo table layout features 50 betting options and areas, including totals, triples, doubles, small/big bets, and combinations.
• Dice: Three standard six-sided dice are used.
• Dice Shaker: either an electronic or manual shaker rolls the dice. Sadly, it’s a ‘hands-off’ approach for the players.

Making Your First Bet: Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Play Sic Bo

Sic Bo is not a complex game. Playing it is as easy as one, two, three, and four. Here’s what a sample round of Sic Bo plays out like:

Step 1: Place Your Bet

You start by placing chips in the betting area that match your prediction. In this example, you place:

• One chip on “Small” (4–10)
• One chip on the “six & three” combination bet

This means you’re betting that:

• The total of the three dice will be between four and ten (excluding triples)
• Two of the dice will show the numbers six and three (in any order)

Step 2: Dealer Shakes Dice

The dealer uses a dice shaker or dome in a live casino to roll the dice. The system or live dealer rolls them electronically or manually in online games. The dice result in this example: Six, three, one.

• Total = Ten
• Dice show both six and three

Step 3: Evaluate the Outcome

Your bets are checked against the outcome:

• Small bet wins (total is ten)
• Combination bet (six & three) wins

Step 4: Collect Payouts

Congratulations: you’ve rolled a winner. This is what you collect:

• Small bet pays 1:1. You win 1 chip
• A combination bet pays 5:1. You win five chips
• Total winnings: Five chips (1 + 5), plus your original two chips are returned.

Sic Bo Symbols and Markings 

The Sic Bo table layout features all the various bets players can make, as well as their odds:

Big and Small Bets

They are labeled ‘Big’ (大) and ‘Small’ (小) and are usually found at the center or top of the layout. They are also often highlighted or boxed for easy access. These are the simplest bets:

• Small (4–10): wins if the total is between 4 and 10 (excluding triples)
• Big (11–17): wins if the total is between 11 and 17 (excluding triples)

Total Sum Bets (4–17)

They are a row or two of numbered boxes labeled 4 to 17. They represent bets on the exact total of the three dice. Each box shows the payout odds below the number. The extreme totals (4, 5, 16, 17) have higher payouts due to lower probability. 

Specific Triple Bets

These are marked with three identical dice faces (for example: ‘1-1-1’, ‘2-2-2’). Usually placed in a horizontal or vertical block, betting here means you’re wagering all three dice will show the same exact number. These bets enjoy high payouts at about 150:1 or more.

Any Triple Bet

It’s sometimes written as ‘Any Triple’ or marked with ‘All’ or three asterisks/dice icons. It’s one large space that covers any triple outcome, regardless of which number it is. It offers a lower payout than specific triples, often around 24:1.

Double (Pair) Bets

Pair bets are represented by two matching dice faces (for example: ‘2-2’, ‘5-5’). Betting here means you predict that two dice will show the same number. The payout is moderate enough, usually around 8:1 or 10:1.

Dice Combination Bets

These bets are labeled with pairs of different numbers (for example: ‘two & five’, ‘three & six’). There are 15 possible two-dice combinations. It pays if both those numbers appear on any two of the three dice in any order. Dice combination bets usually pay 5:1.

Single Number Bets

A single-number bet is the simplest wager. You choose a specific number between 1 and 6. You win if that number appears on any of the three dice. The payout depends on how many times your chosen number shows up: if it appears on one die, you’re paid 1:1; on two dice, 2:1; and on all three, 3:1.

Deciphering Dice Combinations

The result of the three dice determines the outcome of every game round. The combinations are what fuel the variety of betting options. Here are some examples:

• Small Total (4–10, excluding triples)
• Big Total (11–17, excluding triples)
• Specific triples (2-2-2) or any triple
• Doubles (two of a kind)
• Combinations (a three and a five appearing together)

Popular Sic Bo Lingo

Here’s a handy guide to all the phrases and terminology you will likely hear playing Sic Bo.

Sic Bo Betting Options Explained

Like roulette and keno, there is no established betting strategy for Sic Bo. It’s all down to Lady Luck and your preferred deity.

Small and Big Bets

Small and Big bets are the most popular and beginner-friendly options on the Sic Bo table. They are easy to understand, offer relatively even odds, and are often placed in prominent positions on the table layout.

What Is a Small Bet?

• You win if the total of the three dice is between 4 and 10
• Excludes triples (for example: 2-2-2 is an automatic loss even though it totals 6)
• Marked as ‘Small’ or sometimes with the Chinese character

What Is a Big Bet?

• You win if the total is between 11 and 17
• Also excludes triples (for example: 6-6-6 loses even though it totals 18)
• Marked as ‘Big’ or with the character 大

Sic Bo Odds and Payouts

These bets are considered the safest options in Sic Bo, ideal for players who want steady, low-risk gameplay.

How to Play Virtual Sic Bo Online

There is plenty to take into consideration when playing virtual Sic Bo online, but rest assured, as our casino expert will cover all you need to know about how to play the virtual version of this popular game.

Finding Reputable Online Casinos

When playing online, choose trusted platforms with:

• Proper licensing
• Clear game rules and payout structures
• Live dealer options (for a more authentic experience)
• User-friendly interfaces
• Clear and open auditing

Whether you’re learning how to play Sic Bo online or sharpening skills for a trip to the casino, online versions make it easy to practice.

• Virtual Sic Bo: Played with software; fast-paced with instant results.
• Live Sic Bo: Features real dealers and dice, streamed in real time.
• Perks of online play: Play anytime, lower minimum bets, and access free demos.

Conclusion

Confused by craps? Bored with roulette? Fed up with blackjack? Sic Bo may be the game you’re looking for.

It’s a genuinely thrilling experience. It combines the excitement of craps with the betting options of roulette. Like slots and keno, there is no strategy, but Sic Bo is a blast to play. The house edge ranges from reasonable (2.78%) to insane (16.2%), with everything in between.

Now you know the rules, the odds, and where to play, why not try your luck at the Sic Bo table, in person or online? Stick with the beginner-friendly bets as you get a feel for the dice and enjoy the ride. Have fun, stick to your limits, and play responsibly.

FAQs

The post How to Play Sic Bo: The Complete Guide for New Players appeared first on CasinoBeats.

What Is Craps: A Brief History

The origins of craps go back centuries. As long as cavemen have been rolling knucklebones, events and outcomes have been determined by the roll of a die. The earliest recorded six-sided die was found in northern Iraq, dating back to 3,000 BC.

Although its roots are ancient, craps directly evolved from an old English dice game called Hazard, popular among aristocrats during the Middle Ages. When French colonists brought Hazard to New Orleans in the 18th century, it gradually evolved into the modern version of craps we see today.

How to Play Craps: The Fundamentals

It can feel like being thrown in the deep end as a novice craps bettor, but take a look through our guide on how to play craps, and you’ll feel much more comfortable jumping into this game.

The Basic Concept of Craps

The objective of craps is to bet on the outcome of the roll of two dice. The most common bet is the Pass Line bet. This bet assumes that the shooter will roll a seven or an 11 on the first roll or hit a specific number (the Point). 

If the shooter hits the Point before rolling a 7, it’s also a pass-line bet win for everyone.

The Shooter is the player who rolls the dice. At the start of a new round, a player places a Pass Line or Don’t Pass bet to be eligible to shoot. The role rotates clockwise when a shooter ‘sevens out’ (rolls a seven after the Point is set). If you don’t want to be the Shooter, you can pass the dice to the next person.

 The Come-Out roll is the first roll in a round and sets the stage for what happens next:

• If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, Pass Line bets win (this is called a natural).
• If they roll a 2, 3, or 12, Pass Line bets lose (this is called craps).
• If they roll a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes the point.

Once a point is set (let’s say the shooter rolls a 6), the goal is to roll that number again before rolling a 7.

This changes the flow of the game; if the shooter rolls a six again, the Pass Line wins. If they roll a seven before that, the Pass Line loses (called a seven-out). The shooter keeps rolling until one of those two outcomes occurs. After all that, a new round begins. 

Craps Table Layout

The craps table looks confusing at first. When you dig down, it all makes sense. Here are the basics:

• Pass Line / Don’t Pass Line: These are the classic even-money bets.
• Come / Don’t Come: Similar to Pass Line bets but placed after the point.
• Place Bets Section: Where players bet on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10).
• Proposition Bets (center table): Flashy but risky bets; high house edge and best avoided.
• Stick to the outer areas of the table for safer bets.

Craps is a high-maintenance game. You need at least three casino employees to run the game and maintain craps table rules:

• Boxman: Oversaw the table and handled chip issues.
• Stickman: Controls the dice with a stick and announces rolls.
• Dealers: Exchange chips and handle bets for players.

Friendly Advice: Don’t be shy. Dealers are used to helping new players. Let them know you’re learning, and they will guide you through the game and show you how to play casino craps.

Craps Gameplay: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that we’ve broken down the basics of craps, let’s take a look at a step-by-step guide on the gameplay itself. 

The First Roll: Setting Up

First things first: buy some chips. You must never hand money directly to the dealer; instead, wait for the dice to be in the center of the table. Place your cash on the felt in front of you. The dealer will exchange your cash for chips and stack them in your betting area.

Next, nominate a shooter. This is usually the first player to make a Pass Line bet when the table is empty or a game is just starting.

You also need to practice handling the dice. You want to look like a hustler, not a hopeless case. Remember always to use only one hand to pick up and roll the dice. Keep the dice above the table – never drop them below the rail. Throw the dice so they bounce off the table’s back wall. Don’t let them slip or drop. They must bounce.

Join a game but don’t rush to bet. You can make Place and Field bets at any point. You cannot make a Pass Line bet until a new come-out roll. Avoid betting during someone else’s turn. Let the dealers help you out.

Let’s Shoot

Ready to roll? Here’s a step-by-step guide through a typical round of craps.

1. Place a Pass Line or Don’t Pass Bet: Before the shooter rolls, you must place your bet on the Pass Line (betting with the shooter) or Don’t Pass (betting against).

2. The Come-Out Roll: The shooter rolls the dice for the first time in the round. Possible outcomes:

3. The shooter keeps rolling: Let’s assume the shooter has rolled a six. The Point is now a six. Now, the goal is to roll another six before rolling a seven. It’s that simple. If the shooter rolls a six, all pass line bets pay. If the shooter rolls a seven, all pass line bets lose, and the round is over. If the shooter rolls any other number, the shooter rolls again. Now you can face two different endings:

• If the Point is hit, Pass Line bets win, and a new come-out roll begins with the same shooter.
• If the shooter rolls a seven before the point, it’s a seven-out. All bets lose, and the dice pass to the next shooter.

4. All change when it’s time to switch shooters: The dice move on when:

• If a shooter rolls a seven after the point is set (seven-out), their turn is over.
• The dealer passes the dice to the next player clockwise.
•  If the shooter makes the point, they can continue shooting into the next round.
• You’re only required to shoot if the dice come to you and you’ve placed a bet on the Pass or Don’t Pass Line.
• Don’t panic. If you’re shy, shooting is not compulsory (but it is fun!).

These are the five key combinations on the Come-Out roll:

Betting Craps

Getting to grips with betting craps is key to enjoying the game and avoiding costly mistakes.

Pass Line Bet

Place it before the come-out roll. It means you’re betting that the shooter will win by rolling a seven or 11 on the come-out or hitting the point before rolling a seven. The payout: 1:1 

• Example: You bet $10 on the Pass Line:
  • The shooter rolls seven or 11. You win $10.
  • The shooter rolls four. That’s now the point.
  • If they roll a four again, before a seven, you win $10.

Don’t Pass Bet (Betting Against the Shooter)

You place it before the come-out roll, which means you’re betting that the shooter will lose by rolling a two, three, or 12. The payout: 1:1

• Example: You bet $10 on Don’t Pass.
  • The shooter rolls two or three. You win $10.
  • The shooter rolls 12; it’s a push (tie).
  • If a point is set, you win if the shooter rolls a seven before the point.

Come Bet (Like a New Pass Line Bet)

Place this after the point is set. It acts like a mini-game for you: your next roll is your personal come-out roll.

• If 7 or 11 is rolled, you win.
• If 2, 3, or 12 is rolled, you lose.

Any other number becomes your Come Point. If that number is rolled again before a 7, you win.

Don’t Come Bet (Like a Don’t Pass Mid-Round)

You place this bet after the point is set. This is the opposite of the Come bet. You are betting against the new roll. You win if the shooter rolls a seven before your Don’t Come point is hit.

Place Bets

Anytime after the come-out role, make these bets. It means you’re betting that a specific number will be rolled before a 7. Most players place bets on 6 or 8. They hit more often and offer the best odds. For example, you bet $6 on Place Six.

• If the shooter rolls a six before a seven, you win $7.
• If a seven comes first, you lose your $6.

Sucker Bets to Avoid

These are bets with high house edges. They are designed to tempt, but usually just drain your bankroll.

Craps Betting Strategies

Craps is a fast-moving game. Stick to simple, low-risk bets to maximize your bankroll, build your confidence, and enjoy some time at the table. Here are three options:

Why Odds Bets Are the Best Value in the Casino

Odds bets are the best value in the casino because they pay true mathematical odds (no built-in house advantage). You can add them only after a point is set on a Pass, Come, Don’t Pass, or Don’t Come bet. The more odds you take (if the casino allows 2x, 3x, 5x), the lower the house edge on your bet.

And as a helpful tip, always back your Pass/Don’t Pass with odds if your bankroll allows; even small amounts help.

Bankroll Management Tips

Even the best strategy can fall apart without solid bankroll discipline. Here’s how to protect yourself:

Playing Craps in Different Environments

The rules of craps remain the same in different environments, but it’s worth noting that your overall experience can be different. Below, we’ll cover the key differences between playing craps at a casino and playing craps online. 

How to Play Craps at a Casino

Look for tables with low minimums. Peak times are more exciting but can be intimidating. Try early afternoons or weekdays to learn the ropes.

Be polite and respectful to dealers and fellow players. They can help you out. Tip periodically if you’re winning or enjoying good service.

Casino Craps Checklist:

• Bring ID and cash
• Know basic etiquette
• Stick to beginner bets
• Practice patience

How to Play Craps Online

There are two main types of online play, which can also be played internationally at offshore casinos.

• Live dealer craps: Streamed from real tables: social and immersive.
• RNG craps: Fast and controlled by a random number generator.

You need to look for low house edge games, user-friendly interfaces, and demo or free-play modes. 

How to Play Craps at Home

Want to bring the action to your living room? You’ll need the following equipment:

• Dice (two six-sided)
• A layout or mat (optional)
• Chips or counters
• A basic understanding of craps table rules

For casual games, it’s best to use simplified rules like Skip Come/Don’t Come bets. Rotate the shooter after each round and always keep the game light-hearted and fun.

Conclusion

There is no question that, at first glance, craps can appear to be one of the most confusing games in the casino; it’s intimidating, brash, and noisy. Often crowded with players who know precisely what they are doing.

However, like many of the best things in life, it’s worth exploring. Dig into this game, and there is fun to be found, and one of the casino’s only actual odds bets.

With some knowledge and a few practice rounds, you’ll be rolling high. Start with the Pass Line bet, add Odds when you’re ready, and avoid the tempting sucker bets. Enjoy the ride and roll with the best.

FAQs

References

• https://www.youtube.com/shorts/gl6xyOcqdYY (YouTube)

The post How to Play Craps: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners appeared first on CasinoBeats.

How to Play Roulette Online: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Playing games at online casinos is a great way to learn the ropes of roulette without risking too much. Free from peer pressure, impatient croupiers, and disgruntled gamblers at the thin end of their bankroll, you can take the time to learn the bets, the probabilities, the options, and the reality of roulette.

Here’s a step-by-step start:

How to Win at Roulette: Knowledge of Available Bets

Roulette is a game of chance. It’s not a career option. No strategy can improve your odds of winning.

However, you can make wise choices. Understanding roulette odds, bet types, and the risk versus reward is key to maximizing your time at the table. There are two main categories of roulette bets:

Inside Bets Mean Larger Payouts 

These are placed on specific numbers or small groups of numbers. Inside bets offer higher payouts in exchange for lower chances of winning.

Straight Up 

Bet on a single number. Payout: 35:1

Split 

Bet between two adjacent numbers. Payout: 17:1

Street 

Bet on a row of three numbers. Payout: 11:1

Corner

Bet on a square of four numbers. Payout: 8:1

Line (Double Street)

Bet on two rows (six numbers). Payout: 5:1

Outside Bets Lead to Smaller Payouts

These cover larger groups of numbers and offer lower payouts but higher chances of winning. They are made outside the central numbered betting area. Ergo: ‘outside’.

• Red or Black
• Odd or Even
• High or Low (1–18 or 19–36). Each pays 1:1
• Dozens (1–12, 13–24, 25–36). Payout: 2:1
• Columns (vertical set of 12 numbers). Payout: 2:1

Risk vs. Reward

Recommended Bets for Beginners

If you’re new to roulette and you want to make your bankroll last for more than a few spins, start with some basic outside bets:

• Red/Black
• Odd/Even
• High/Low

These bets are simple, easy to track, and give you nearly 50/50 odds. You’re not going to win big. You just double your money. The zero will make all the outside bets a loss if it lands on that.

Of course, you won’t win every time. However, you’ll stay in the game longer and get a feel for how roulette works.

An Example of a Winning Roulette Hand

Let’s say you place $5 on Red, $2 on the First Dozen (1–12), and $1 on Number 7 (Straight Up). The ball lands on Red 7. Here’s your return:

• Red (1:1): Win $5
• First Dozen (2:1): Win $4
• Straight Up (35:1): Win $35
• Total Winnings: $44 from an $8 stake

You’ve just scored a roulette hat trick. It’s rare, but it does happen. One of the primary attractions of roulette is the possibility of a substantial win. If you are lucky enough to land a loaded single, you usually’ve paid for your night out. Winner winner, chicken dinner.

Popular Roulette Systems: Quickfire Overview

There is no strategy for predicting the outcome of roulette. However, there are some intriguing mathematical formulas designed to extend your bankroll. Most work only on even money bets. Whilst they are ingenious, none of them has any effect on the house edge.

Here’s a summary of the best-known betting systems:

How to Play Roulette at a Casino 

Are you ready for the real thing? Online is fine, but it’s not the same. If you’re heading to the casino, roulette is the perfect game to play. There’s no strategy. There’s no skill. You just need the nod from Lady Luck. Here are some pointers to keep you looking cool, and in control, at the casino:

1. Find the right table. Tables are usually labelled with minimum and maximum bet limits. Find the price that suits your budget.
2. Buy chips. Unlike online play, in the casino, you exchange your cash for color-coded chips. These are specific to your session and can’t be used elsewhere. Don’t worry: the croupier knows what’s what.
3. Place your bets. Wait for the dealer to say ‘Place your bets!’ and put your chips on those (winning!) numbers, lines, corners, and combos. Stop betting when the dealer says, ‘No more bets.’
4. Watch that etiquette. Be cool and be respectful. It’s not the croupier’s fault that you keep missing your number by one pocket. Don’t touch the chips after the spin and avoid leaning over the table when the game’s in motion.
5. Wait for payouts. If you win, the dealer will put a dolly on top of the winning number. The remaining chips are swept away.

Key Differences: Online vs. In-Person Roulette

There are some key differences between online roulette and in-person roulette. The table below covers the basic variations between the two. 

Regional Roulette Variations

Not all roulette wheels are created equal. Shop around before you take one for a spin.

Our Expert Tips for Playing Roulette

If there was one singular tip to take to the roulette table, it’s this: have fun. Roulette is about managing both your mindset and your bankroll.

The two are fundamentally interlinked. Here are our top tips to help you stay in control and enjoy the game for longer.

Observe Before You Play

What’s the rush? Before you dive in, spend a few spins watching the table.

• Online: watch how quickly the game moves and where the betting options are. Several roulette apps offer demo modes. Use them.
• In-person: take note of table limits, how the dealer interacts, and the pace of the game.

Bankroll Management: Set a Budget and Stick to It

Roulette is relatively quick, and so are the losses if you don’t plan.

• Set a maximum limit before you start playing.
• Break your bankroll into smaller session chunks.
• Avoid the temptation to increase your bet size after a loss (also known as the Martingale trap – see below).
• Gamble responsibly and only with funds you can afford to lose, as there aren’t ever guaranteed wins in betting.

Know When to Walk Away

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement, but knowing when to bail out is crucial.

• Set both win goals and loss limits. ‘If I double my bankroll, I’ll cash out. If I lose half, I’ll stop.’
• Don’t chase losses. The wheel doesn’t owe you anything.

Take Advantage of Self-Exclusion and Time-Outs

If you’re playing online, most reputable casinos offer responsible gambling tools:

• Time-outs: Take a short break from your account.
• Deposit limits: Set a cap on your daily, weekly, or monthly spending to stay within your budget.
• Self-exclusion: Temporarily or permanently block access if things start to feel out of control.

Conclusion

Roulette is the perfect casino table game. The house edge is elegantly represented by the zero. The odds of the game are displayed in a brilliantly designed format.

Easy to play, simple to understand, and full of drama. Where will the ball stop? Will my number hit? Should I play even-money bets or try to pick a single number? For most people, roulette is the first game they try at the casino. Why not find out why? If you’ve never tried it, give it a spin. 

FAQs

The post How to Play Roulette: The Ultimate 2025 Guide for New Players appeared first on CasinoBeats.

GambleAware’s 2023 Audience Segmentation Report indicated that around 4.5 million UK adults want to reduce or stop gambling, with 93% of individuals preferring informal self-guided methods of support. 

In a statement on its website, GambleAware states: “The app, which offers free and anonymous support to those looking to quit or reduce their gambling, is designed to prevent the escalation of gambling harm, and allows users to set their personal goals.”

The app includes features like activity tracking, goal-setting, motivational reminders, podcasts, educational content, and referral options.

App Aimed At Young Adults

The app is primarily aimed at young adults, with the 2024 Treatment and Support Survey released by GambleAware showing that they suffer from gambling problems at double the rate of the general population. 

The survey reported that 29% of 18-24-year-olds who gamble want to reduce or quit, compared to 15% of all respondents. 

Alexia Clifford, Chief Communications Officer for GambleAware, indicated that there is an increased risk of problem gambling in the digital age due to having a “casino in our pocket”. 

Clifford commented: “Whether individuals want to reduce, manage, or stay gamble-free, the GambleAware Support Tool is here every step of your journey.” 

“The digital age means we essentially have a casino in our pocket, and we know increased accessibility leads to increased participation and therefore increased risk of harm.”

The organization reported a 10% rise in individuals accessing the National Gambling Support Network (NGSN) last year, compared to the previous year. 

“These harms are a growing public health issue, but early intervention is key, and the GambleAware Support Tool app is designed to give people a timely insight into their gambling, with the aim of supporting their journey to reducing or quitting their activity.”

Lower Risk Gambling Guidelines Central to the App

The app has been developed in accordance with the Lower Risk Gambling Guidelines (LRGG), which were created by academic experts in gambling worldwide. 

As stated by GambleAware: “The LRGG highlight three limits that should be followed if an individual wants to keep gambling, but reduce many of the risks that come with it: 

• Gamble no more than 1% of your income 
• Gamble on no more than four days per month 
• Avoid more than two types of gambling per month.”

The GambleAware Support Tool is the only available app in the UK that uses the LRGG to suggest limits for users to reduce their gambling. 

Lived Experience Council Voice Support

Catherine Adams, a member of the GambleAware Lived Experience Council, believes the app will be invaluable to individuals who suffer from the same problems as she once did. 

The Lived Experience Council (LEC) is made up of a variety of people whose lives have been impacted by gambling harm.

Adams said that “I would be gambling on the computer from six in the evening until six in the morning, and I just was not sleeping.”

By reminding users of their progress, Adams thinks the app will be of great benefit to users. 

She stated: “It’s positive being able to monitor your progress yourself and to see how well you’re doing in reducing or quitting your gambling if you’re goal-oriented. To see ‘I’ve done this many days now ‘or ‘I’ve saved this much money, I think it really does give variety of choice in your recovery.”

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