Street Dice, also known as street craps, is one of the simplest and oldest gambling games. It only needs two dice and a flat surface. The game has been played everywhere from back alleys to casinos, and its straightforward rules make it easy for anyone to learn. This guide explains how Street Dice works, where it came from, and how to play it safely and responsibly.
This is an updated article of our Street Dice how-to-play guides.
What is Street Dice
Street Dice is an informal version of the casino game craps. It does not use a table or complex betting layout. Players simply bet on the outcome of a roll using two six-sided dice. Because it requires no special equipment, it can be played anywhere, which helped it spread through many communities over the years.
What You Need
- Two standard six-sided dice
- A smooth, flat surface for rolling
- A few players willing to place bets
A Brief History of Street Dice
Dice games have existed for thousands of years. Archaeologists have found dice made from bones and stones dating back to around 3000 BC. The ancient Greeks and Romans used dice in gambling, and the Bible also contains references to casting lots, which is an early form of dice play.
In modern times, Street Dice became part of urban culture, especially in the 20th century. The game is mentioned in songs such as Jerry Reed’s When You’re Hot, You’re Hot and Lloyd Price’s Stagger Lee, both of which describe gambling scenes in back alleys. Despite its rough setting, the game’s simplicity and tension have kept it popular to this day.
Street Dice Rules Explained
Street Dice usually involves two to four players and follows a simple sequence of rolls and bets.
1. Choosing the Shooter
One player acts as the shooter, the person who rolls the dice. Before the first roll, called the come-out roll, everyone places their bets on whether the shooter will win (pass) or lose (don’t pass).
2. The Come-Out Roll
- If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, they win immediately.
- If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, they lose immediately.
- If the roll is 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes the point.
3. The Point Phase
Once a point is established, the shooter keeps rolling until one of two things happens:
- The shooter rolls the same point number again and wins.
- The shooter rolls a 7 before hitting the point and loses.
After each round, the dice move to the next shooter and the game continues.
Common Variations
Street Dice has many small variations depending on the players or the setting. Some groups allow side bets such as:
- Field bet: Wins on rolls of 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12.
- Hard way: Betting on doubles such as 4-4 or 5-5.
- Over or under 7: Predicting whether the total will be higher or lower than seven.
These add variety but also increase the risk, so it is best to stick to the basic bets if you are new to the game.
Quick Tips for Beginners
- Use a flat and open surface so everyone can see the roll clearly.
- Wait until the dice stop before touching them again.
- Keep your bets small until you are comfortable with the flow.
- Do not chase losses. Treat each round as a separate game.
- If playing online, use platforms with verified random number generators.
Strategy Summary
| Scenario | Result | Player Guidance |
|---|---|---|
| 7 or 11 on come-out roll | Win | A good start, but keep bets steady. |
| 2, 3, or 12 on come-out roll | Loss | Accept the loss and wait for the next round. |
| Point established | Continue rolling | Stay focused until the point is matched or lost. |
| 7 rolled before point | Loss | Keep within your budget and move on. |
Responsible Play
Street Dice can be entertaining but it is still gambling. Set a limit before you start and stop when you reach it. Never play while drinking or under pressure to win. The best games are those played for fun, not for recovery of losses.
Quick Questions
Is Street Dice the same as casino craps?
No. Street Dice is a simplified version that removes table layouts and most of the complex bets.
How many players can join?
Two to four is ideal, but any group can play as long as the rules are clear.
Can I play Street Dice online?
Yes. Many online and crypto casinos now include versions of Street Dice that use random number generators for fairness.
Conclusion
Street Dice remains one of the oldest and most accessible games of chance. It combines simplicity, excitement, and social interaction in a way few games can match. Whether played casually with friends or online for small stakes, the key is to understand the rules and play within your limits.
