6 superstitions in the game of craps
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21 Aug 2025 •
Reading time: 3 minutes Under the bright lights of casinos and to the rhythmic sound of dice clattering, craps is played as much with numbers as with beliefs. Some practices make you smile, others intrigue you, but all tell a story where luck mixes with tradition. Here is a journey into the heart of the most surprising beliefs that animate craps tables.
1. When language becomes superstition
When standing around a craps table, be careful to avoid saying… the word ‘seven’. Why such restraint? Because saying this number after the “point” has been established is considered bad luck. The word is often replaced by a nickname such as ‘Big Red’ to ward off bad luck.
2. The right timing for betting
Culture shock for beginners: never place your chips when the ‘puck’ is ‘ON’. This red disc marks an already active point and symbolises a phase of play in progress. According to craps purists, introducing money at this point is a sign of bad luck. Players prefer to wait until the ‘puck’ is ‘OFF’ to place their bets with peace of mind.
3. ‘Hot’ dice and the fear of changing them
What if changing dice interrupted a streak of luck? Many players refuse to have the dice replaced, even if they have been thrown off the table. They shout ‘same dice!’, convinced that the same dice will continue to bring them luck. Of course, mathematically, this doesn’t change anything, but the psychological effect is powerful.
4. When the number of players matters more than chance
There is a surprising belief that an empty table is ‘cold’ and devoid of luck. Players prefer a lively, noisy place with players who are already active and winning.
5. Throwing techniques
There is the mirror ritual: throwing the dice so that they bounce off a mirror in front of the croupier. This is seen as a way of reducing rebounds and ‘controlling the fate of the dice’… even though the casino strongly discourages this practice so as not to damage the equipment.
A minority defy the laws of probability by decorating their throw with precise dice setting, believing they can influence fate with a carefully considered initial position. Despite a few die-hard supporters, studies show that these techniques do not reduce the house edge. The game remains random.
Some players also believe that if the dice touch a player’s hand or the chips, the roll will be a loser. It is therefore recommended to keep your hands up while the dice are being rolled.
6. Opposing points: rationality or belief?
Commenting or assuming that one should bet on the opposite point (e.g., if the point is 4, bet on 10) is another popular ritual. The argument is that the sum of the opposite points is 14, which offers an ‘alternative chance.’ However, statistically, neither 4 nor 10 are more likely: it is more folklore than strategy.
In conclusion
This mix of popular beliefs gives craps the reputation of being the casino game with the most superstitions. The most important thing is to play for fun, respecting chance, your budget and your fellow players. So… Will you avoid saying the word ‘seven’ next time?
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Why can’t you say the word ‘seven’ in craps?
Many players believe that saying the word seven after a point has been established may attract the number and cause the shooter to lose.
When should you bet in craps?
Many players believe that you should not enter the game after a point has been established because it is a sign of bad luck. In reality, you are allowed to bet before any roll.
Can throwing technique help you win at craps?
No, throwing technique has no influence on the results.