MODIFIED CRAPS GAME

Abstract

A method of playing craps includes a come out roll establishing a point followed by resolution of the point by subsequent rolls attempting to roll the established point prior to rolling a seven. The method includes the steps of: (a) placing a side wager selected from the group consisting of an odd, even, hard, or combination thereof; (b) rolling the come out roll; (c) rolling additional rolls until the outcome results in a point being established; (d) rolling additional rolls until the established point is made resolving the point as a win in favor of wagers placed on a pass line or a seven is rolled resolving the point as a loss to those wagers; and (e) paying out the side wagers if the point is resolved in favor of the player or collecting the wagers if the point is resolved in a loss.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/418,619, filed Dec. 1, 2010, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to a dice game, particularly a method of playing craps, and more specifically to a variation of the game of craps through inclusion of a side wager.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

Craps is a well known casino table game traditionally played with a pair of six-sided dice, each side displaying a single number of spots designating the numbers one through six. When the dice are rolled, the outcome is determined by summing the number on each of the dice together to reach a total. For example, a roll with one die displaying a three and the second die displaying a four would render an outcome of a seven.

A casino, a gaming establishment, or a game distributor/manager that allows craps to be played, is often referred to as the “house”. The house sets rules for the craps games and oversees the play, betting, and payouts. Although often the house refers to a casino, craps can be played at gaming taverns, electronically over the internet and/or through a slot machine. Moreover, often charity venues or charity licenses can be issued that allow craps to be played at certain events or locations. Many times craps is played at non-gambling events where no monies actually changes hands. Examples include parties and the like that award prizes to the participants at recreational “casino nights” and the like. All such previously described examples of venues and gaming facilitators are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure. Casinos typically use playing chips that represent dollar amounts. Each chip carries a unique indicia, usually distinguishable by color. For example, a $5 or 5 unit chip will be red and a $1 dollar or 1 unit chip will be white. In non-gambling recreational events, “fake” chips are provided that closely resemble the gaming experience.

Although craps is often played on a table using dice, it can be played using any random number generating system that generates a pair of numbers between one and six. This includes using playing cards or electronically using computing technology. Some states or jurisdictions may outlaw dice games thus allowing the game to be played using cards or through electronic mechanisms.

The primary game of craps typically begins with a player making a wager on either the “pass” line or the “don't pass” line. To start the game, the player places one or more wagers and a “come out” roll occurs in which one of three immediate outcomes can occur: (1) the outcome (i.e., sum of the dice) of the roll results in a 7 or 11 resulting in all pass line wagers winning and don't pass line wagers losing; (2) the outcome of the roll results in a 2, 3, or 12, traditionally known as “craps” in which all the pass line wagers lose and the don't pass line wagers either push or win depending on house rules; or (3) the outcome of the roll results in a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 in which case a “point” is established. The player then continues to roll the dice until the established point or a seven is rolled. Players who wager on the pass line are betting that a player will roll the point before rolling a seven. In contrast, players who wager on the don't pass line are betting that the player will roll a seven before the point. After the point is made or a seven is thrown the point is resolved and the game begins again.

When a point has been established, players have the option of placing “odds” wagers behind their initial pass or don't pass wagers to win more money. These wagers are advantageous to the player as they are “true odds” wagers, which means the wager pays the exact amount that would be predicted by the frequency of the event occurring, and therefore has no house edge. In craps, it is important to distinguish between the term “odds” as it refers to “true odds” and bets placed behind the pass line to roll an established point as compared to the term “odd” which is in reference to landing on an odd number such as 5 or 9.

For example, using a pair of dice, there are 3 ways to roll a 4 (3,1; 1,3; and 2,2) and 6ways to roll a seven (1,6; 2,5; 3,4; 4,3; 5,2; and 6,1). This means it is twice as likely that a 7 will be rolled before a 4 or a ratio of 2:1. Accordingly, if a player bets $5 on the pass line and a point of 4 is established, the player can place an odds bet of usually up to three times the pass line wager or in this case $15. If the player rolled a 4 before a seven, then the point is made resulting in a win for the player. The pass line wager pays at even money, however the odds wager pays at 2:1 or $30 in this example.

In addition to these standard wagers, craps is extraordinarily popular as it offers a wide variety of optional wagers with a chance for high payouts. An example would be a “hard way” wager in which the player is betting the dice will come up as a pair or resulting in identical numbers. For example, a roll of 2 and 2 would be considered a hard 4, which would pay at a premium. In contrast, an “easy” roll results when the dice express unlike numbers, such as a roll of a 1 and a 3 would be considered an easy 4.

A need exists in the gaming industry for twists to existing games to make them more attractive. As such, many additions have been made to the standard game of craps by adding side wagers to enhance the standard game. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,377,513 to Friedman describes a side wager in which the player can bet that the next roll of the dice will result in an odd number. If an odd number is rolled the player is paid even money. Otherwise, the player would lose except in the event of a craps roll of 2, 3, 12. Friedman further describes a wager in which the player can bet the next roll will be even or odd. If the player is correct in their prediction, they are paid even money, or less than even money if the roll results in craps. U.S. Pat. No. 6,802,508 to Moody defines a hard way true odds craps wager which can be played if the player also makes a pass, don't pass, or come bet. If the point is a 4, 6, 8, or 10 then the player can receive a bonus payout if the point is made hard. U.S. Pat. No. 7,661,677 to Friedman describes a hard pass wager in which a player can win additional money if the player establishes a hard point and that the point is made hard before rolling a seven.

A need remains for alternative game rules, betting options, and method of play for the game of craps.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to a method of playing a game of craps. The game includes a come out roll to establish a point followed by resolution of the point by subsequent rolls attempting to roll the established point prior to rolling a seven. The game also includes at least one player making one or more wagers related to the resolution of the point prior to the come out roll. The method includes the steps of: (a) placing a side wager selected from the group consisting of an odd, even, hard, or combination thereof side wagers before the come out roll; (b) rolling the come out roll until a point is established using a pair of random number generators to generate a pair of unique numbers from 1 to 6 resulting in an outcome defined by a summation of the random numbers from 1 to 6; (c) rolling additional rolls until the established point is made resolving the point as a win in favor of wagers placed on a pass line or a seven is rolled resolving the point as a loss to wagers placed on the pass line; and (d) paying out the side wagers if the point resolves in favor of the player or collecting the wagers if the point resolves in a loss for the player. In an exemplary embodiment, the random number generators are a pair of six-sided dice, wherein each side of each of the dice displays a unique number from 1 to 6.

The method of the present disclosure can further include the steps of placing an odds wager behind the side wager corresponding to the established point, wherein resolving the point as a win for the player by rolling the point before rolling a seven resolves in a win for the odds wager according to an additional predetermined bonus which pays at a ratio of pay out relative to the odds wager in a range between 1:1 and 5:1.

In a further exemplary embodiment, making the odd side wager includes the steps of: (a) resolving said odd side wager as a loss to the player if an even number point is established; (b) continuing play of said odd side wager if an odd number point is established; (c) resolving said odd side wager as a loss to the player if a seven is rolled before rolling the established odd point; (d) resolving said odd side wager as a win for the player if the odd number point point is rolled before rolling a seven; and (e) paying said odd side wager at a predetermined bonus if the point is resolved as a win for the odd side wager. In an example, the even number point is established if the outcome is any of 4, 6, 8, or 10 and the odd number point is established if the outcome is any of 5 or 9. The predetermined bonus relative to the side wager can be paid at a ratio between the range of 1:1 to 10:1. In a particular embodiment, the predetermined bonus relative to the side wager is paid at a ratio of 6:1.

In yet a further exemplary embodiment, making the even side wager further includes the steps of: (a) resolving said even side wager as a loss to the player if an odd number point is established; (b) continuing play of said even side wager if an even number point is established; (c) resolving said even side wager as a loss if a seven is rolled before rolling the established even point; (d) resolving said even side wager in favor of the even side wager if the even point is rolled before rolling a seven; and (e) paying said even side wager at a predetermined bonus if the point is resolved as a win for the player. In an example, the even number point is established if the outcome is any of 4, 6, 8, or 10 and the odd number point is established if the outcome is any of 5 or 9. The predetermined bonus relative to the side wager can be paid at a ratio between the range of 1:1 to 10:1. In a particular embodiment, the predetermined bonus relative to the side wager on an even point is paid at a ratio of 5:2.

The present disclosure provides for a method wherein the outcome of a roll is defined as a hard roll when the dice display identical numbers and wherein the outcome of a roll is defined as an easy roll when the dice display unlike numbers. In still yet a further exemplary embodiment, making the hard side wager further includes the steps of: (a) resolving said hard side wager as a loss if an odd number point is established; (b) paying said hard wager at a first predetermined bonus if an even number point is established with a hard roll; (c) continuing play of said hard side wager if the even number point is established with either a hard roll or an easy roll; (d) resolving said hard side wager as a loss if a seven is rolled before rolling the established point or the point is resolved by an easy roll; (e) resolving said hard side wager as a win if the point is resolved by a hard roll before rolling a seven; and (f) paying said hard side wager at a second predetermined bonus if the point is resolved as a win for the hard wager. In an example, the even number point is established if the outcome is any of 4, 6, 8, or 10 and the odd number point is established if the outcome is any of 5 or 9. The first and second predetermined bonuses relative to the side wager can be paid at a ratio between the range of 1:1 to 10:1. In a particular embodiment, the first predetermined bonus relative to the side wager is paid at a ratio of 3:1. In yet another embodiment, the second predetermined bonus relative to the side wager is paid at a ratio of 6:1.

In a particular embodiment, a press hard side wager is available when the point is established hard and the player is paid for the win. Accordingly, when pressing, the winning wager is added to the original wager until the point is resolved. If the point resolves in favor of the wager, then the player is able to win a much larger amount.

In an even further exemplary embodiment, the game is played electronically and the dice are represented electronically on a display allowing the player to place wagers and roll the dice through the display and electronic mechanisms. In yet an even further embodiment, the game is played using playing cards substituted for the dice as random number generators operable to generate a pair of numbers between 1 and 6, wherein each generation of numbers represents a roll of the dice.

The present disclosure provides for a system of playing a game of craps, the game including a come out roll to establish a point followed by resolution of the point by subsequent rolls to roll the established point prior to rolling a seven and at least one player making one or more wagers related to the resolution of the point prior to the come out roll. The system includes: (a) a layout displaying various side wagering options including an odd number wager, an even number wager, and a hard number wager, wherein the side wagers are placed prior to the come out roll and resolved when a point is established or a point is resolved; and (b) a pair of random number generators adapted to establish a point, wherein each random number generator is adapted to generate a number between 1 and 6 and wherein generating the pair of random numbers results in an outcome defined by a summation of the random numbers. Further outcomes are generated after the point is established until the established point is made resolving the point as a win in favor of wagers placed on a pass line defined on the layout or a seven is generated resolving the point as a loss to wagers placed on the pass line.

Other features and advantages of the present disclosure will be readily appreciated, as the same becomes better understood after reading the subsequent description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features and advantages of the present invention will become more readily apparent when taken in conjunction with the following figures and illustrations.

FIG. 1 is an exemplary craps layout display with areas demarcated under the pass line for players to place odd, even, and hard wagers.

FIG. 1A illustrates schematically an exemplary row of betting demarcations depicting odd, even, and hard wagers as individual betting spaces on the pass and don't pass line.

FIG. 1B illustrates an exemplary craps layout display for use with cards rather than dice with areas demarcated for players to place odd, even, and hard wagers.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example flowchart illustrating an overview of game play of odd, even, and hard wagers in conjunction with a pass line wager.

FIG. 2A illustrates an example flowchart of detailed game play of an odd wager in conjunction with a pass line wager.

FIG. 2B illustrates an example flowchart of a detailed game play of an even wager in conjunction with a pass line wager.

FIG. 2C illustrates an example flowchart of a detailed game play of a hard wager in conjunction with a pass line wager.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example game play showing dice outcomes to represent the play of a hard wager win on a point established hard and made hard.

FIG. 3A illustrates an example game play showing dice outcomes to represent the play of a hard wager win on a point established easy and made hard.

DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure provides for a system and method of play of a modified game of craps including “odd,” even,” and “hard” side wagers. These betting options and methods of play include a variety of interdependent wagers where a player can use a novel and specific strategy of proportional wagering to optimize their chance of winning the side wagers.

In an example, the present disclosure provides for a side wager that encompasses payouts for various outcomes of point resolutions. These side wagers include wagers on odd, even, or hard outcomes which are also contingent on the resolution of an established point. Such wagers are not limited to one roll and are thus beneficial to the gaming environment in that the wagers help build excitement over time. Further, wagers that are paid when standard wagers are paid instead of adding extra payout procedures for the house are less cumbersome for game attendants who distribute payouts for wins or take wagers for losses on the outcome of every roll. Wagers that offer a higher payout than even money (i.e., payout amount equal to amount wagered) can be more enticing to players.

Referring to FIGS. 1-1 B, example game playing layouts are shown incorporating the side wager methods associated with the present disclosure. A game playing layout 100 displays several wagering options for players. Layout 100 includes a pass line bar 110 and a don't pass line bar 120. In FIG. 1 bars 110 and 120 extend longitudinally along one side of the layout curving generally perpendicular and continuing along a perpendicular side of the layout. This allows for multiple players to join the game and with no disadvantage as to their relative position with respect to the wagering options displayed on layout 100. Standard craps game wagering options are shown such as the “Come” bet 130, “Field” bet 140, single point bets for numbers 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10 positioned above the “Come” bet 130, and several other optional interior single and multiple roll bets shown collectively at 150. Layout 100 includes mirrored betting options from one end of the table to the other as shown in FIG. 1, thus further allowing more players to join the game. Accordingly, players generally have access to all wagering options available on the layout regardless of their relative position around the table or game layout.

FIG. 1 further displays side wagers positioned behind the pass line bar 110. These side wagers include an odd number wager 160, an even number wager 170, and a hard number wager 180. Each wager display 160, 170, and 180 is enclosed with a visible border demarcating the location to place the associated wager. In this example, each wager display 160, 170, and 180 is shown in a box and allows for players to place wager amounts into the game by placing betting chips representing monetary units into the boxes. In an example, a player wanting to place an odd number wager can place a desired amount of wager units into the game by placing those units on or within the box enclosing the words “ODD” represented by wager box 160. Several groupings of wagering boxes 160, 170, and 180 can be displayed along layout 100 to provide various locations for players positioned around the table.

FIG. 1A illustrates schematic example of an alternative display for the odd (160), even (170), and hard (180) wager placement spaces positioned within the pass line bar 110 and the don't pass line bar 120. In this example, the side wagers 160, 170, and 180 are encircled by circular boundaries and aligned along the width of the bars 110 and 120.

FIG. 1B illustrates a further embodiment of a layout 101 for playing a game of craps. In this example, playing cards can be used to replace dice for generating numbers between 1 and 6. The rules remain the same for game play and wagering options as described with respect to layout 100, however, additional demarcations 190 marked “1”, “2”, and “3” are provided for placement of cards. The outcome of the cards replaces the dice as a form of generating random numbers and likewise, each outcome can be referred to as a roll. An example system of using cards rather than dice includes a pair of six deck shoes of playing cards limited to cards of ace, two, three, four, five, and six. Having three demarcation positions 190 allows for a game variation of modified craps where a dealer using multiple shoes of cards limited to ace through six places three cards face down. A player designated as a “roller” then selects two of the three cards to reveal the numbers and those numbers represent a roll of the dice or the outcome of the roll. Similar to layout 100, several groupings of circular wager placements 160, 170, and 180 for betting odd, even, or hard are displayed around the table to allow for multiple players to join any given game.

Referring to FIG. 2-2C, example flowcharts are shown illustrating the method of play according to the present disclosure. The present disclosure provides for allowing players to place side wagers, in addition to pass line wagers, betting that an established point will be an odd number, an even number, a “hard” number (i.e., the die are identical numbers from one to six), or combinations thereof. The wager can be paid a bonus if the wagered event occurs. The bet therefore is a multiple roll wager that is independent from the pass line wager but follows the outcome of the pass line wager. Additionally, broader and more flexible wagering options exist resulting from the hard bet remaining in the game even if the point establishes “soft” (i.e., each die is not identical to the other) nor does the point need to be resolved hard for the player to win. Moreover, players can bet combinations of the wagers, and can use the wagers to hedge or insure against other potential losses.

Flowchart 200 illustrates a method of playing a modified craps game associated with the present disclosure which starts by placing a wager prior to a point being established. In the present disclosure, the terms “wager” and “wagering” are interchangeable with the terms “bet” and “betting.” In an example, the bet can be placed on the pass line and additionally on the odd, even and/or hard wager as shown at box 210. In this example, players can wager that an established point of an odd number (either 5 or 9) shown at box 220, even number (either 4, 6, 8, or 10) shown at box 320, or hard number (the die are identical numbers of either 2,2; 3,3; 4,4; or 5,5) shown at box 340 will be rolled before a seven is rolled.

As previously described, the numbers 2, 3 and 12 represent craps and is therefore not a point available for being established in standard craps. The numbers 7 and 11 are also unavailable for being established in standard craps. However, modified craps games such as “crapless craps” may offer variations in the odd/even betting associated with the present disclosure. In an example, wagers can be made at predetermined minimums and maximums which can be set by the house. Moreover, these wagers can be made in conjunction with a pass line wager, or a “come” wager (i.e., a bet made that a second point established after the initial established point will result prior to rolling a seven).

In flow chart 200, if an odd wager is placed at box 220 and the point is established odd, the game progresses to box 230. In this example, the player also places a pass line wager in box 210. The method advances to box 240 if the point is successfully rolled odd (i.e., a 5 or 9) prior to rolling a seven. Accordingly, if the event of box 240 occurs, then the method advances to box 250 where the player placing the odd wager wins along with the pass line wager. As shown in box 260, the pass line wager can pay per standard craps procedures while the odd wager can pay at a predetermined bonus. In this example, the bonus payout relative to wager amount is paid at a ratio of 6:1.

In flow chart 200, if an even wager is placed at box 320 and the point is established even, the game progresses to box 320. In this example, the method advances to box 330 if the point is successfully rolled even (i.e., a 4, 6, 8, or 10) prior to rolling a seven. Accordingly, if the event of box 340 occurs, then the method advances to box 350 where the player placing the even wager wins along with the pass line wager. As shown in box 360, the pass line wager can pay per standard craps procedures while the even wager can pay at a predetermined bonus. In this example, the bonus payout relative to wager amount is paid at a ratio of 5:2.

In flow chart 200, if a hard wager is placed at box 420 and the point is established hard and therefore an even number, the game progresses to box 430. Establishing the point hard results in a win for the player at box 450 paid at a predetermined bonus amount. The game then progresses to box 460. In this example, the ratio of bonus amount to wager amount is 3:1 as represented in box 450. If the point is established easy (i.e., the dice express non-equal numbers) then the game progresses to box 440 where there is no payout for the hard wager. Regardless of whether the point is established hard (box 430) or easy (box 440), the game progresses to box 460 where the point is resolved as a hard roll prior to rolling a seven. This results in a win for the hard wager as shown at box 480 which pays at a predetermined bonus. The pass line wager can pay per standard craps procedures while the hard wager can pay at the predetermined bonus, in this example, a payout relative to wager amount at a ratio of 6:1.

Players can also make these wagers if they bet the “don't pass” line. In this case, the side wager can serve as “insurance” in the event the point is made before a seven which would therefore result in the loss of their don't pass wager.

Players may also make the wager if they chose not to play the pass or don't pass line at all. Players may make combinations of these odd, even, and hard wagers, for example, even and hard bet simultaneously. The rules set by the house can allow for bets on a side wager to not need equal a pass line wager, and can be any amount as deemed necessary by the casino. Further placing the side wager does not prevent the player from making any other simultaneous wagers that they might opt to place during the standard game of craps.

Referring to FIGS. 2A-2C, example methods of play related to the present disclosure are shown along with schematic flow charts illustrating various outcomes associated with the playing method.

Odd Wager

FIG. 2A is a flowchart example illustrating the method steps and possible outcomes associated with playing an odd wager. In this example, the odd wager specifies that a point will establish as a 5 or a 9, and that this point will be rolled before a 7 is rolled. Placing an odd wager is shown at box 220 which is the start of the game. The wager is placed prior to the come out roll represented by box 214. In this example, three outcomes are shown resulting from the come out roll 214. The first is that the point is established as odd (i.e., rolling a 5 or 9) as shown at box 230. If the point establishes odd, then the game progresses to box 232 where the dice are rolled until either the odd point is rolled at box 240 or a seven is rolled at box 234. Rolling a seven results in a loss of the odd wager shown at box 236 which ends the round. Rolling the odd point results in a win for the player shown at box 250 which progresses to a payout at box 260 which also ends the round. In this example, the payout ratio relative to wager amount is 6:1.

The second option, shown at box 216, is a roll of a 7 or 11 (typically a win for pass line wagers) or a 2, 3, or 12 (typically a loss for pass line wagers known as “craps”). If the outcome of box 216 occurs, then the game progresses to box 218 where the dice are rolled until a point is established leading to box 230 or box 330.

The third option, shown at box 330 is establishing an even point (e.g., 4, 6, 8, or 10) thus resulting in a loss to the odd wager shown at box 331. Thus, if a player bets odd (box 220) and an even point is established (box 330), the odd wager loses (box 331). The game continues per standard rules of craps and any pass line wagers remain in play.

If the established point is an odd number (box 230), then the player's odd wager is still active, but no actionable event has occurred upon which the wager is won or lost. To win the odd wager, the odd point must be rolled before a 7 is rolled, shown at box 240 which resolves the point. Winning wagers will be paid at predetermined odds, shown at box 260. In an exemplary embodiment the odd bonus for winning an odd number bet can be paid as 6:1. Once the point is resolved by either rolling a seven, shown at box 234 resulting in a loss for the player (box 236), or making the point by rolling the odd point prior to rolling a seven (box 240), the round ends (box 280).

In an example method of play of an odd number wager (box 220): a player places $5 on the pass line and $5 on the odd wager before a point is established. In all examples the term player can refer to anyone wagering at a craps table including the shooter (i.e. the person rolling the dice). For convenience the examples are written such that the player is also the shooter.

As such, the player establishes a point of a 9 (box 230), and then proceeds to roll a 9 before a 7 (box 240). In this example, the player wins the pass line wager and the odd wager (box 250). The pass line wager pays as per the traditional rules of craps. The odd wager can be paid at a premium of 6:1 (box 260). Accordingly, the player will win a total of $35, assuming pass line wager pays even money as per traditional rules.

If the come out roll establishes a point of 4, 6, 8, or 10 (box 330) instead of a 5 or a 9 then the player loses the odd number wager as the point is even (box 331). If the point were established as a 5 or a 9 but a 7 was rolled before the point was made (box 234), the player would also lose the odd wager in addition to the traditional loss of the pass line wager (box 236).

In an example, the house can set the rules to allow for a player's first or subsequent come out rolls resulting in a 7, 11, 2, 3, or 12 prior to establishing a point to have no bearing on the odd wager as the wager only refers to numbers that constitute establishing a point.

As per the traditional rules of craps a player may continue to make come out rolls until a point is established (box 218). Thus, the odd number wager remains in play over several rolls of the dice with no impact on the outcome of the odd number wager. Similarly, after a point is established, the only roll that impacts the outcome of the odd wager is whether the player rolls the established odd numbered point (5 or 9) or a 7 before the established point. Thus, in the above example, after the point is established as a 9, all other rolls outside of a 9 or a 7 are inconsequential to the outcome of the odd wager.

Even Wager

FIG. 2B is a flowchart example illustrating method steps and possible outcomes associated with playing an even wager. In this example, the even wager specifies that the point will be a 4, 6, 8, or 10, and that this point will result before a 7 is rolled. Placing an even wager is shown at box 320. The wager is placed prior to the come out roll at box 214. The same possible three outcomes can occur as previously described with respect to FIG. 2A: an even point is established (box 330), an odd point is established (box 230) or a 7, 11, 2, 3, or 12 is rolled (box 216).

Following the progression from box 230, if an odd point of 5 or 9 is established, the even wager will lose as shown at box 231. If the established point is an even number (4, 6, 8, or 10) shown at box 330, then the player's even wager is still active, but no actionable event has occurred upon which the wager is won or lost shown at box 333. The player rolls until the established even point is rolled or a seven is rolled represented at box 332. To win the even wager the even point must be rolled, shown at box 340 progressing to a win at box 350 and a payout including a predetermined bonus at box 360 before a 7 is rolled at box 334 resulting in a loss at box 336. In an exemplary embodiment the even bonus for winning an even number wager can be paid as 5:2 (i.e., 2.5:1). The round ends at box 380 once the established point is resolved as a win or a loss.

In an example method of play of an even wager, a player can place $5 on the pass line and $5 on the even wager (box 320) before a point is established (e.g. prior to the come out roll at box 214). If the player establishes a point of a 6 (box 330) and then proceeds to roll a 6 before a 7 (box 340), the point resolves in a win for the player (box 350). In this example, the player wins both the pass line and even wager. The pass line wager may pay as per the traditional rules of craps of even money. The even wager can be paid at a suggested premium of 5:2 (box 360), which in this example would amount to $12.50. Accordingly, barring any other bets on the table, the player will win $17.50 on this particular roll.

If the come out roll (box 214) established a point of 5 or a 9 (box 230) instead of a 4, 6, 8, or 10 then the player loses the even wager (box 231). If the point establishes as a 4, 6, 8, or 10 but a 7 results before the point is made (box 334), the player loses their even wager (box 336).

The rules can be set such that the even wager is paid whether the point is rolled easy or hard. Thus, if an established even point is rolled hard (e.g., the number on each die is identical to the other such as 3,3) then the even wager is won and pays the same amount as if the point were rolled easy (e.g., 4,2 or 5,1). Thus in the above example the player who bet even wins 2.5 to 1 (e.g., $12.50) if the established point of 6 were rolled in any easy fashion (e.g., 5,1; 1,5; 2,4; or 4,2) or hard (e.g., 3,3).

In an example, the house can set the rules to allow for a player's first or subsequent come out rolls resulting in a 7, 11, 2, 3, or 12 prior to establishing a point to have no bearing on the even wager as the wager only refers to numbers that constitute establishing a point.

As per the traditional rules of craps a player may continue to make come out rolls until a point is established. Thus, the even number wager can remain intact over several rolls with no impact on the outcome of the even number wager. Similarly, after a point is established, the only roll that impacts the outcome of the odd wager is whether the player rolls the established even numbered point or a 7 before the established point. Thus, in the above example, after the point is established as 6, all other rolls outside of a 6 or a 7 are inconsequential to the outcome of the even wager.

Hard Wager

Both the odd and even wager require two independent events to occur to win: (1) establishing a respective odd or even point that matches the chosen wager; and (2) winning the point. A hard wager can win if the point: 1) establishes hard and loses; 2) establishes easy even and won hard; 3) establishes hard and won even easy; and 4) establishes hard and won hard.

FIG. 2C is a flowchart example illustrating the method steps and possible outcomes associated with playing a hard wager. In this example, the hard wager specifies that a point will establish as a 4, 6, 8, or 10, and that this point will either be established hard and/or resolved hard before a 7 is rolled. In an example method of play, a player places a hard wager starting the game at box 420. In this example, the wager is $5 on the pass line and $5 on a hard wager before a point is established. The come roll then takes place at box 214 with the same three possible outcomes as previously described with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B: box 330, box 216, or box 230. If the player establishes point of a 6 by rolling a 4 and a 2 (i.e., established point easy, box 330 advancing to box 333) and then proceeds to roll a 6 the hard way (3, 3) before a 7 (advancing through box 432 to box 460), the wager results in a win. In this case the player wins their pass line and hard wager (box 460), even though the point was not established hard. The pass line wager may pay even money as per the traditional rules of craps and the hard wager can be paid at a predetermined bonus, for example 6:1 (box 480). The round ends at box 490 once the point is resolved as a win or a loss.

In an example, the house can set the rules to allow for a player's first or subsequent come out rolls resulting in a 7, 11, 2, 3, or 12 prior to establishing a point to have no bearing on the hard wager as the wager only refers to numbers that constitute establishing a point.

As per the traditional rules of craps a player may continue to make come out rolls until a point is established shown at box 218. Thus, the hard wager can remain in play over several rolls of the dice with no impact on the outcome of the hard wager. Similarly, after a point is established, the only roll that impacts the outcome of the hard wager is whether the established hard or easy point is rolled or a seven is rolled. Thus, in the above example, after the point is established as 6, all other rolls outside of a 6 or a 7 are inconsequential to the outcome of the hard wager.

According to the method of play of the present disclosure, if an even point is established in an easy fashion (box 333), the hard wager remains in play until: (1) the player rolls the established point hard before a 7 in which case the hard wager wins and pays a predetermined bonus (e.g., 6:1, progression from box 460 to 480); (2) the player resolves the point easy in which case the hard wager loses (box 450 to box 470, paying the pass line wager if one exists); or (3) the player rolls a 7 before the established point in which case the hard wager loses (box 434 to box 436).

If an even point is established hard the player may automatically win the hard wager but can win more if the point is also made hard as described above. Establishing the point hard is not necessary to win the hard wager. Winning wagers can be paid at predetermined bonuses. Example bonus structures can include but are not limited to: 3:1 for establishing a point hard and 6:1 for winning the point hard thus resulting in a cumulative win of 9:1 when the point is both established hard and won hard.

In an exemplary embodiment, the house may set the rules such that if a point is established hard, the player may not remove the original hard wager from play. The hard wager will therefore remain in play until the wager is ultimately won or lost. Thus if a player bets $5 on the hard wager and the pass line and a point of 4 is established by a roll of 2, 2 then the hard wager will pay $15 (i.e., 3:1). The player may not remove the original $5 placed on the hard wager. The wager is played out until a determining event occurs such as: (1) the point is rolled hard resulting in the player wining an additional 6:1 (e.g., $30 in this example); or (2) the point is rolled easy or the player rolls a 7 before the point whereby the hard wager loses ($5 in this case). In other embodiments players may also be able to take down their hard wager after the point is established hard.

FIGS. 3-3A illustrate example of game play according to the present disclosure. In FIG. 3, a come out roll 510 shows the point establishes as a 4 hard as shown by the pair of dice each expressing a 2. The next roll 512 results in an easy 8 (3, 5) and thus having no impact on the hard wager. The next roll 514 lands on a 4 hard which is made prior to rolling a 7 and thus results in a win. In this example, the hard wager pays at a bonus of 6:1. In FIG. 3A, the come out roll 520 establishes the point of 4 easy. The next roll 522 results in an easy 6 and has no impact on the hard wager. The next roll 524 lands on a 4 hard which is made prior to rolling a 7 and thus results in a win. Again, the hard wager pays at a bonus of 6:1.

In a further example where the point establishes hard, the rules may allow the player to: (1) collect their winnings; or (2) “press” the hard wager by putting any amount up to the total of their winnings on the original hard wager. This can be referred to as a press hard side wager. Minimum and maximum limits can be established for these press bets. In the example above where the player bet $5 on the hard wager and the point was established hard with a roll of 3, 3 the maximum press may be $20 ($5 initially and $15 from winnings on the hard wager). In either case, the hard wager may then stay in play until the player either rolls the point hard in which case the wager would pay a 6:1 bonus on all wagers, (i.e., the initial hard wager plus any additional amount added by pressing if the point establishes hard) or the player rolls the point easy or a 7 in which case the hard wager loses entirely. In other embodiments, players would not be able to “press” the hard wager after a point is established hard.

Odds on the Odd, Even, and Hard Wager

After a point is established a player may have the option of placing odds wagers behind their odd, even, or hard wagers analogous to the standard method of betting odds on the pass or don't pass wager. Players can wager and win more money if the established point matches their prediction and is rolled before a seven. The amount a player can place as an odds wager is determined by the house. Standard odds maximums are often three times the initial pass or don't pass wager for points of 4 and 10, four times the initial pass or don't pass wager for points of 5 and 9, and five times for points of 6 and 8. Payouts are generally made as a ratio of amount paid relative to amount wagered. Typically, payouts on odds wagers reflect the true odds of the number as compared to rolling a 7. For example, points of 4 and 10 pay 2:1, points of 5 and 9 pay 3:2 and points of 6 and 8 pay 6:5.

For example, if a player bet $5 on the pass line and a point of 4 were established they could wager an additional $15 that another 4 will roll before a seven to win an extra $30 (2:1 on the $15 odds bet). Similarly if a player bet $5 on even and a point of 4 were established the player could also place $15 behind their even wager to win an additional $30. This money would be in addition to whatever monies they put behind the pass or don't pass line. If a 7 were rolled before the even point then the player would lose their even wager and any odds wagers they placed.

The same is applicable to the odd wager as well as the hard wager, however to minimize possible confusion the house may prefer not to have odds placed behind the hard wager as the player could lose their hard wager but win their odds. For example, if a player bets the hard wager and a point of 4 is established then they have not yet won. If a 4 is rolled easy (1,3 or 3,1) then the player would lose their hard wager. In contrast to the hard wager, the odds wager would win since the point was rolled before the seven.

The present disclosure allows players a unique option to devise wagering strategies to optimize their chance of winning the side wager. As such, players can bet different proportional amounts on each of the 3 side wagers to either “hedge” their bets or cover multiple betting options.

For example, a player places a wager on the odd and the even points. Here the player would be paid an exemplary 6:1 if the odd point came and was rolled again before a seven and 5:2 if the even point came and was rolled again before a seven. By wagering on both the odd and even side wagers, the player by definition would lose one side wager (i.e. the even side wager if an odd point were established, or the odd side wager if an even point were established). The player would then win the remaining wager if the established point were rolled before a seven, and would lose that wager if a seven were rolled before the point.

By comparing the relative payouts of 6:1 for an odd point, and 5:2 for an even point, if the player bet a proportional lower amount on the odd side wager then they could still win monies on an odd point resolving before rolling a seven despite losing some monies on the even wager. This strategy can also be employed using the even and hard wager, odd and hard wager, or all three wagers (i.e. odd, even and hard) to maximize winnings and minimize loses.

Moreover, the present disclosure allows the player to take additional odds out on their side wager as they would for a standard pass, don't pass, come, and don't come wager. Odds can be paid at true odds which for an odd point (i.e., 5 and 9 combined) would be 4:3, and for an even point 4, 6, 8 or 10) of 5:3. This adds another level of unique excitement to the side wager and can be used as a factor in determining a proportional wagering strategy on the odd, even, and hard wagers.

Many modifications and variations of the present disclosure are possible in light of the above teachings. Therefore, within the scope of the appended claim, the present disclosure may be practiced other than as specifically described.

Claims

1. A method of playing a game of craps, the game including a come out roll to establish a point followed by resolution of the point by subsequent rolls attempting to roll the established point prior to rolling a seven and at least one player making one or more wagers related to the resolution of the point prior to the come out roll, the method comprising the steps of:

(a) placing a side wager selected from the group consisting of an odd, even, hard, or combination thereof side wagers before the come out roll;

(b) rolling the come out roll until a point is established using a pair of random number generators to generate a pair of unique numbers from 1 to 6 resulting in an outcome defined by a summation of the random numbers from 1 to 6;

(c) rolling additional rolls until the established point is made resolving the point as a win in favor of wagers placed on a pass line or a seven is rolled resolving the point as a loss to wagers placed on the pass line; and

(d) paying out the side wagers if the point resolves in favor of the player or collecting the wagers if the point resolves in a loss for the player.

2. The method of claim 1 wherein the random number generators are a pair of six-sided dice, wherein each side of each of the dice displays a unique number from 1 to 6.

3. The method of claim 1 further comprising the steps of placing an odds wager behind the side wager corresponding to the established point, wherein resolving the point as a win for the player by rolling the point before rolling a seven resolves in a win for the odds wager according to an additional predetermined bonus which pays at a ratio of pay out relative to the odds wager in a range between 1:1 and 5:1.

4. The method of claim 1 wherein making the odd side further comprises the steps of: (a) resolving said odd side wager as a loss if an even number point is established; (b) continuing play of said odd side wager if an odd number point is established; (c) resolving said odd side wager as a loss if a seven is rolled before rolling the established odd point; (d) resolving said odd side wager as a win for the odd side wager if the odd point is rolled before a rolling a seven; and (e) paying said odd side wager at a predetermined bonus if the point is resolved as a win for the odd side wager.

5. The method of claim 4 wherein the even number point is established if the outcome is any of 4, 6, 8, or 10 and the odd number point is established if the outcome is any of 5 or 9.

6. The method of claim 4 wherein the predetermined bonus relative to the side wager is paid at a ratio between the range of 1:1 to 10:1.

7. The method of claim 4 wherein the predetermined bonus relative to the side wager is paid at a ratio of 6:1.

8. The method of claim 1 wherein making the even side wager further comprises the steps of: (a) resolving said even side wager as a loss if an odd number point is established; (b) continuing play of said even side wager if an even number point is established; (c) resolving said even side wager as a loss if a seven is rolled before rolling the established even point; (d) resolving said even side wager in favor of the even side wager if the even point is rolled before rolling a seven; and (e) paying said even side wager at a predetermined bonus if the point is resolved as a win for the even wager.

9. The method of claim 8 wherein the even number point is established if the outcome is any of 4, 6, 8, or 10 and the odd number point is established if the outcome is any of 5 or 9.

10. The method of claim 8 wherein the predetermined bonus relative to the side wager is paid at a ratio between the range of 1:1 to 10:1.

11. The method of claim 8 wherein the predetermined bonus relative to the side wager is paid at a ratio of 5:2.

12. The method of claim 1 wherein the outcome of a roll is defined as a hard roll when the rand numbers are identical numbers and wherein the outcome of a roll is defined as an easy roll when the random numbers are unlike numbers.

13. The method of claim 12 wherein making the hard side wager further comprises the steps of: (a) resolving said hard side wager as a loss if an odd number point is established; (b) paying said hard wager at a first predetermined bonus if an even number point is established with a hard roll; (c) continuing play of said hard side wager if the even number point is established with either a hard roll or an easy roll; (d) resolving said hard side wager as a loss if a seven is rolled before rolling the established point or the point is resolved by an easy roll; (e) resolving said hard side wager as a win if the point is resolved by a hard roll before rolling a seven; and (f) paying said hard side wager at a second predetermined bonus if the point is resolved as a win for the hard wager.

14. The method of claim 13 wherein the even number point is established if the outcome is any of 4, 6, 8, or 10 and the odd number point is established if the outcome is any of 5 or 9.

15. The method of claim 13 wherein the first and second predetermined bonuses relative to the side wager are paid at a ratio between the range of 1:1 to 10:1.

16. The method of claim 13 wherein the first predetermined bonus relative to the side wager is paid at a ratio of 3:1.

17. The method of claim 13 wherein the second predetermined bonus relative to the side wager is paid at a ratio of 6:1.

18. The method of claim 1 wherein the game is played electronically and the rolls are represented electronically on a display allowing the player to place wagers and generate rolls through the display and through electronic mechanisms.

19. The method of claim 1 wherein the random number generators are playing cards operable to generate a pair of numbers between 1 and 6, wherein each generation of numbers represents a roll.

20. A system of playing a game of craps, the game including a come out roll to establish a point followed by resolution of the point by subsequent rolls attempting to roll the established point prior to rolling a seven and at least one player making one or more wagers related to the resolution of the point prior to the come out roll, the system comprising:

(a) a layout displaying various side wagering options including an odd number wager, an even number wager, and a hard number wager, wherein the side wagers are placed prior to the come out roll and resolved when a point is established or a point is resolved; and

(b) a pair of random number generators adapted to establish a point, wherein each random number generator is adapted to generate a number between 1 and 6 and wherein generating the pair of random numbers results in an outcome defined by a summation of the random numbers;

wherein further outcomes are generated after the point is established until the established point is made resolving the point as a win in favor of wagers placed on a pass line defined on the layout or a seven is generated resolving the point as a loss to wagers placed on the pass line.