Craps vs Pai Gow Poker: Which is Riskier?

When you think about the riskiest games in the casino, Craps vs Pai Gow Poker are right up there. Craps, with its fast-paced action and wild swings, can drain your bankroll quicker than you can say “snake eyes.” On the flip side, Pai Gow Poker, despite its slower pace, can be equally treacherous with its complex rules and deceptive strategies. In this article, we’re diving deep into the dark side of these two games, highlighting the pitfalls, the heartaches, and the downright scams that can ruin your day at the casino.

Beware of Common Pitfalls: Craps

The Negative Aspects of Playing Craps

Craps is the adrenaline junkie’s game. The high-energy atmosphere, the crowd’s roar, and 

1. High House Edge on Certain Bets

• Explanation: While some bets in craps have a relatively low house edge, others can be significantly higher. For instance, the “Any Seven” bet has a house edge of around 16.67%.
• Impact: Players are more likely to lose money quickly if they consistently place bets with a high house edge.

2. Complexity of the Game

• Explanation: Craps can be intimidating for beginners due to its numerous betting options and complex rules.
• Impact: New players may find it challenging to understand the game, leading to mistakes and potentially costly bets.

3. Fast Pace

• Explanation: The rapid pace of the game can lead to players making quick, impulsive decisions.
• Impact: This can result in increased losses, especially if players are not well-versed in the game or fail to manage their bankroll effectively.

4. Social Pressure

• Explanation: Craps is often a highly social game, with players cheering and reacting to the outcomes of the dice.
• Impact: This social aspect can pressure players into making bets they wouldn’t normally consider, potentially leading to greater financial losses.

5. Potential for Superstition

• Explanation: Craps is surrounded by various superstitions and myths about lucky and unlucky numbers or actions.
• Impact: Relying on superstitions rather than strategies based on probabilities can lead to poor decision-making and increased losses.

6. Misleading Odds

• Explanation: Some bets in craps offer high payouts, which can be tempting for players.
• Impact: These bets often have poor odds, meaning players are more likely to lose their money than win the advertised high payouts.

7. Addictive Nature

• Explanation: The excitement and social interaction in craps can be highly addictive.
• Impact: This can lead to problem gambling behaviors, where players spend more time and money than they can afford, chasing losses or the thrill of the game.

8. Bankroll Management Challenges

• Explanation: The fast pace and excitement of the game can make it difficult for players to manage their bankroll effectively.
• Impact: Poor bankroll management can result in players running out of money quickly, especially if they are not disciplined.

9. High Minimum Bets

• Explanation: Some casinos have high minimum bet requirements for craps tables.
• Impact: This can make the game less accessible to casual or low-stakes players and increase the potential for significant losses.

10. House Edge on Come/Don’t Come Bets

• Explanation: While the house edge on Pass/Don’t Pass bets is relatively low, the Come/Don’t Come bets also carry a house edge that can erode a player’s bankroll over time.
• Impact: Even experienced players can find their funds diminishing due to the consistent house advantage.

Misguided Strategies in Craps: Tricks That Damage Your Odds

1. Avoid Betting on “Any Seven”

• Explanation: This bet has a very high house edge of around 16.67%.
• Why to Avoid: The odds of winning are low, and you are likely to lose your money quickly.

2. Don’t Fall for “Hot” or “Cold” Streaks

• Explanation: Many players believe in hot or cold streaks where the shooter is on a roll or constantly losing.
• Why to Avoid: Each roll of the dice is independent of the previous ones. Believing in streaks can lead to poor betting decisions.

3. Steer Clear of Proposition Bets

• Explanation: These are bets on specific outcomes like hardways or any craps.
• Why to Avoid: They generally have high house edges and poor odds, making them risky and unprofitable in the long run.

4. Avoid Placing Big Bets When Chasing Losses

• Explanation: Some players try to recoup their losses by making larger bets.
• Why to Avoid: This can lead to even greater losses and is a sign of poor bankroll management.

5. Don’t Make the “Field Bet” Regularly

• Explanation: The field bet pays out on a variety of numbers but has a higher house edge compared to other bets like Pass Line or Come bets.
• Why to Avoid: The frequency of winning field bets is lower, making it less advantageous.

6. Avoid Excessive “Place Bets”

• Explanation: While placing bets on 6 and 8 can be profitable, placing bets on other numbers like 4, 5, 9, and 10 can be less favorable.
• Why to Avoid: These bets often have a higher house edge and are less likely to win.

7. Don’t Rely on Betting Systems

• Explanation: Systems like the Martingale (doubling your bet after each loss) can seem appealing.
• Why to Avoid: These systems can lead to massive losses and are not foolproof, especially with table limits in place.

8. Stay Away from the “Big 6” and “Big 8” Bets

• Explanation: These bets pay even money if a 6 or 8 is rolled before a 7.
• Why to Avoid: The house edge is significantly higher than simply placing a bet on the 6 or 8.

9. Avoid Betting on Hop Bets

• Explanation: Hop bets are one-roll bets on specific dice combinations.
• Why to Avoid: They have extremely high house edges, making them very risky.

10. Don’t Overlook Odds Bets

• Explanation: Taking odds behind your Pass Line or Come bets is one of the best bets in the casino since it has zero house edge.
• Why to Avoid: Failing to take advantage of odds bets means missing out on the best opportunity to reduce the house edge.

Gambling Missteps: Cautionary Tales from the Craps Table

1. Archie Karas

• Background: Archie Karas is famous for his gambling run known as “The Run,” where he turned $50 into over $40 million between 1992 and 1995.
• Failure: Despite his incredible streak, Karas eventually lost it all due to a combination of high-risk bets, poor bankroll management, and continued gambling even when luck turned against him.

2. Terrance Watanabe

• Background: A wealthy businessman, Watanabe is known for losing approximately $127 million in 2007, primarily in Las Vegas casinos.
• Failure: His losses were attributed to high-stakes gambling, poor decision-making, and an inability to manage his bankroll effectively.

3. Michael Jordan

• Background: The NBA legend is known for his competitive nature and love for gambling.
• Failure: While not specifically related to craps, Jordan has reportedly lost substantial amounts in various forms of gambling due to high-risk bets and an aggressive gambling style.

4. Charles Barkley

• Background: Another NBA star known for his gambling habits, Barkley has been open about his gambling losses.
• Failure: Barkley admitted to losing around $10 million over the years, including significant losses in casino games where he likely didn’t follow optimal strategies or manage his bankroll well.

5. Harry Kakavas

• Background: An Australian real estate mogul, Kakavas is known for his extravagant gambling habits.
• Failure: He lost more than $1 billion in casinos due to high-stakes betting and a failure to adhere to responsible gambling practices.

The Deceptive Calm of Pai Gow Poker

Negative Aspects of Pai Gow Poker

1. Low Payouts
   • Explanation: Pai Gow Poker generally offers lower payouts compared to other casino games.
   • Impact: Players might find their winnings modest even after a winning streak, which can be discouraging.
2. Complex Rules
   • Explanation: The game involves setting two hands (a five-card hand and a two-card hand), which can be confusing for beginners.
   • Impact: Misunderstanding the rules can lead to mistakes and potential losses.
3. Slow Gameplay
   • Explanation: Pai Gow Poker is known for its slower pace due to the time taken in setting hands and pushing hands.
   • Impact: Some players may find the game less exciting and engaging, potentially leading to boredom and inattentiveness.
4. High Commission
   • Explanation: Casinos usually take a 5% commission on winning hands.
   • Impact: This reduces the overall winnings, making it harder for players to come out ahead.
5. Ties (Pushes)
   • Explanation: Many hands in Pai Gow Poker end in a tie or push, where neither the player nor the dealer wins.
   • Impact: This can lead to a lack of progress in the game, frustrating players who are looking for more action.

Understanding the nuances of Pai Gow Poker is essential for new players looking to navigate its complexities. While the game offers unique challenges such as low payouts, complex rules, slow gameplay, high commissions, and frequent ties, mastering it can still be rewarding. For a comprehensive introduction that will help beginners get started and understand the fundamentals, check out the following video: “Pai Gow for Beginners.”

Tricks to Avoid in Pai Gow Poker

1. Avoid Setting Weak Hands
   • Explanation: Some players may mistakenly set a strong two-card hand, leaving their five-card hand vulnerable.
   • Why to Avoid: It’s crucial to balance both hands to maximize the chances of winning.
2. Don’t Ignore the House Way
   • Explanation: The “house way” is the strategy the dealer uses to set hands.
   • Why to Avoid: Following the house way can help new players set their hands more effectively.
3. Avoid Betting Too High Initially
   • Explanation: Betting large amounts before understanding the game can lead to significant losses.
   • Why to Avoid: Start with smaller bets to learn the game and develop a strategy.
4. Don’t Play Without Understanding Bonuses
   • Explanation: Some casinos offer bonus bets, which can be tempting.
   • Why to Avoid: Bonus bets often come with higher house edges and can drain your bankroll quickly if not understood properly.
5. Avoid Rushing Your Decisions
   • Explanation: Pai Gow Poker requires careful thought in setting hands.
   • Why to Avoid: Rushed decisions can lead to setting hands poorly and losing potential wins.
6. Stay Clear of Alcohol
   • Explanation: Drinking can impair judgment.
   • Why to Avoid: Clear thinking is essential in setting your hands effectively.

Famous Gamblers Who Have Failed on Pai Gow Poker

While there aren’t many documented cases specifically related to Pai Gow Poker, there are general lessons from well-known gamblers:

1. John Montagu, 4th Earl of Sandwich

• Background: John Montagu was an 18th-century British statesman and avid gambler.
• Connection to Craps: He is often credited with inventing the sandwich, supposedly because he didn’t want to leave the gambling table for meals. While his gambling activities spanned various games, his dedication to gambling culture is well-noted.

2. Ben Affleck

• Background: An award-winning actor and filmmaker with a known interest in gambling.
• Connection to Craps: While Affleck is more famously known for his blackjack skills and being banned from playing due to card counting, he has also dabbled in other casino games, including craps.

3. Dana White

• Background: President of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and a high-stakes gambler.
• Connection to Craps: White is known for his love of gambling and has won and lost significant amounts playing craps in Las Vegas. His high-rolling lifestyle and large bets have made him a notable figure in the gambling community.

4. Frank Sinatra

• Background: Iconic American singer, actor, and member of the Rat Pack.
• Connection to Craps: Sinatra was a regular at Las Vegas casinos and enjoyed playing craps among other games. His glamorous lifestyle and association with Vegas nightlife made him a legendary figure in the gambling world.

5. Larry Flynt

• Background: Publisher of “Hustler” magazine and a prominent figure in adult entertainment.
• Connection to Craps: Flynt was known for his high-stakes gambling, including playing craps. His losses and wins have been part of his public persona, illustrating the risks and rewards of gambling.

High-Risk Zones: Avoid These Casino Environments and Online Traps in Craps and Pai Gow Poker

In Physical Casinos

1. High Minimum Bet Tables
   • Explanation: Some tables have higher minimum bet requirements, which can quickly deplete your bankroll.
   • What to Look For: Seek out tables with lower minimum bets to extend your playing time and reduce the pressure on your bankroll.
2. Crowded Tables
   • Explanation: Busy tables can be overwhelming for beginners and make it difficult to follow the game.
   • What to Look For: Find tables that are less crowded where you can focus on learning the game without feeling rushed or pressured.
3. Tables with Aggressive Players
   • Explanation: Some players can be very vocal and aggressive, creating an intimidating atmosphere.
   • What to Look For: Look for tables with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere where you can ask questions and learn at your own pace.
4. Proposition Bets Area
   • Explanation: This area of the table offers bets with high house edges.
   • What to Look For: Stick to the simpler bets like Pass Line, Don’t Pass, Come, and Don’t Come to start with.

For players seeking to expand their casino game repertoire, understanding the nuances of different games can be highly beneficial. If you’re interested in comparing various table games, our Baccarat vs. Pai Gow Poker Review provides an in-depth analysis. This review will help you decide which game suits your style and preferences, offering insights into the rules, strategies, and potential benefits of each game. By exploring this comparison, you can make more informed choices and enhance your overall gaming experience.

Online Casinos

1. Unregulated or Unlicensed Casinos
   • Explanation: Some online casinos operate without proper regulation, leading to unfair practices.
   • What to Look For: Ensure the online casino is licensed by a reputable authority (e.g., UK Gambling Commission, Malta Gaming Authority).
2. Online Casinos with Poor Reviews
   • Explanation: Negative reviews from other players can indicate issues like delayed payouts, poor customer service, or unfair games.
   • What to Look For: Research and choose casinos with positive reviews and a good reputation in the gambling community.
3. Complex Craps Variants
   • Explanation: Some online casinos offer different variants of craps that can be confusing for beginners.
   • What to Look For: Start with standard craps games to learn the basics before trying out more complex versions.
4. Online Casinos with High Minimum Deposits
   • Explanation: High minimum deposits can be risky for beginners who are still learning the game.
   • What to Look For: Look for casinos with low minimum deposit requirements so you can start small and gradually increase as you gain confidence.
5. Sites without Practice Modes
   • Explanation: Not having a practice mode means you must risk real money while learning.
   • What to Look For: Choose online casinos that offer a practice or demo mode so you can learn the game without risking money.
6. Promotions with High Wagering Requirements
   • Explanation: Some bonuses come with high wagering requirements, making it hard to withdraw winnings.
   • What to Look For: Read the terms and conditions of any bonuses and opt for those with reasonable wagering requirements.

General Tips for Beginners

1. Start with Low Stakes: Whether online or in a physical casino, begin with low stakes to minimize potential losses while you are learning.
2. Observe and Learn: Take time to watch other players and learn from their strategies and mistakes.
3. Ask for Help: In physical casinos, don’t hesitate to ask dealers or other players for guidance. Online, look for tutorials and guides provided by the casino.
4. Use Betting Strategies Wisely: Stick to simple and safe betting strategies, avoiding complex systems until you are more experienced.

Conclusion

When it comes to Craps vs Pai Gow Poker, deciding which is riskier is like choosing between jumping off a cliff or slowly sinking in quicksand. Craps is the fast-paced rollercoaster with steep drops and high thrills, while Pai Gow Poker is the subtle saboteur, slowly but surely depleting your funds. The house edge, complex rules, and social pressures make both games a risky proposition for any gambler.

Remember, the casino is always a step ahead, and these games are designed to separate you from your money. If you decide to play, do so with caution, a clear strategy, and the understanding that the odds are stacked against you. And maybe, just maybe, think twice before you place that next bet.

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