What is "Don't Come" in Craps?
The "Don't Come" bet is a wager that can be made in a game of Craps after the initial ("come out") roll has been resolved, and a point has been established. The bet is essentially the opposite of a "Come" bet, meaning you are betting against the shooter (the person rolling the dice). When you place a "Don't Come" bet, you are wagering that a 7 will be rolled before the point number is rolled again.
To understand the "Don't Come" bet, it's essential to first grasp the basic rules of Craps. The game is played with two dice, and the main objective is to predict the outcome of the dice roll. The shooter starts by making a "come out" roll, and if they roll a 7 or 11, they win. If they roll a 2, 3, or 12, they lose. If they roll any other number, that number becomes the "point," and the game continues. The shooter must then roll the point number again before a 7 is rolled for the game to end.
How to place a "Don't Come" bet
To place a "Don't Come" bet, you must first wait for a point to be established after the "come out" roll. Once the point is set, you can place your chips in the designated "Don't Come" betting area on the Craps table layout. The dealer will then move your chips to a numbered box that corresponds to the point number.
When you place a "Don't Come" bet, you are essentially betting that a 7 will be rolled before the point number is rolled again. If this happens, you win your wager. However, if the point number is rolled before a 7, you lose your bet.
It's essential to understand the payout odds for a "Don't Come" bet, as they differ from other Craps bets. If a 7 is rolled before the point number, you will receive a payout of 1:1, meaning you will win the same amount as your original bet. However, if the point number is rolled before a 7, you will lose your wager.
Advantages and disadvantages of "Don't Come" bets
Advantages
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Lower house edge: One of the main advantages of the "Don't Come" bet is that it has a relatively low house edge compared to other Craps bets. The house edge for a "Don't Come" bet is approximately 1.41%, making it one of the best bets in the game in terms of the player's odds.
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Simplicity: The "Don't Come" bet is relatively simple to understand and place, making it accessible to players of all levels. It doesn't require any complicated strategies or calculations, so it's suitable for beginners and experienced players alike.
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Betting against the majority: Since most players bet on the shooter to win, placing a "Don't Come" bet can provide a unique and exciting gaming experience, as you are essentially betting against the majority of players at the table.
Disadvantages
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Limited betting options: While the "Don't Come" bet offers a lower house edge compared to other Craps bets, it also has fewer betting options. You can only place the bet after the point has been established, and you cannot make any additional bets with it, such as odds bets.
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Unpopular with other players: As a "Don't Come" bettor, you may find yourself at odds with other players at the table, as you are betting against the shooter. This can lead to tension and a less enjoyable gaming experience for some players.
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No instant wins: Unlike the "Come" bet, where you can win instantly if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, the "Don't Come" bet does not offer any immediate wins. You must wait for the outcome of the dice roll to determine whether you have won or lost your bet.
"Don't Come" bet strategies
While the "Don't Come" bet is relatively simple to place, there are several strategies that you can employ to maximize your winning potential. These include:
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Combining bets: One popular strategy is to combine the "Don't Come" bet with other bets, such as the "Don't Pass" bet or laying odds. This can help you diversify your betting options and potentially increase your winnings.
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Betting in multiples: Another strategy is to place multiple "Don't Come" bets on different numbers, increasing your chances of winning. However, it's essential to note that this can also increase your risk of losing, so it's crucial to manage your bankroll effectively.
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Utilizing a betting system: Some players choose to use a betting system, such as the Martingale or Fibonacci system, to manage their "Don't Come" bets. While these systems can help you manage your bankroll, it's crucial to remember that they are not foolproof and cannot guarantee a win.
Comparing "Don't Come" bets to other Craps bets
When comparing the "Don't Come" bet to other Craps bets, it's essential to consider factors such as the house edge, betting options, and overall risk. The "Don't Come" bet has a lower house edge compared to many other bets in the game, making it an attractive option for players looking to maximize their odds.
However, the "Don't Come" bet also has limited betting options compared to other bets, such as the "Pass" and "Come" bets, which offer more opportunities for winning. Additionally, the "Don't Come" bet may be less appealing to some players due to its nature of betting against the shooter and the majority of players at the table.
Tips for mastering "Don't Come" bets
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Understand the rules: Before placing a "Don't Come" bet, it's essential to have a thorough understanding of the rules of Craps and the specific bet itself. This can help you make informed decisions and increase your chances of winning.
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Manage your bankroll: It's crucial to manage your bankroll effectively when placing "Don't Come" bets, as they can be riskier than other bets. Set a budget for yourself and stick to it, and avoid chasing losses.
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Practice makes perfect: The more you play and practice placing "Don't Come" bets, the more comfortable and confident you will become. Consider playing free online Craps games to hone your skills before playing for real money.
Common misconceptions about "Don't Come" bets
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"Don't Come" bets are bad luck: Some players believe that placing a "Don't Come" bet brings bad luck to the table, as you are betting against the shooter. However, this is simply a superstition, and there is no evidence to support this claim.
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"Don't Come" bets are for experienced players only: While the "Don't Come" bet may be less familiar to some players, it is not reserved for experienced players. With a basic understanding of the rules and some practice, anyone can place a "Don't Come" bet and enjoy the unique gaming experience it provides.
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"Don't Come" bets guarantee a win: While the "Don't Come" bet has a lower house edge compared to other Craps bets, it does not guarantee a win. Like any other bet in the game, it carries a risk, and it's essential to manage your bankroll and expectations accordingly.
Conclusion
The "Don't Come" bet is an intriguing and lesser-known wager in the game of Craps that offers unique gameplay and attractive odds for players. By understanding what is "Don't Come" in Craps terminology, learning how to place the bet, and employing effective strategies, you can enhance your gaming experience and potentially increase your winnings. As with any bet in the game, it's essential to manage your bankroll, practice your skills, and maintain a clear understanding of the rules to maximize your success.