Introduction
Chicken Road, also known as “Craps,” is a popular dice-based casino game that has been around for decades. The name “Chicken” originated from a 1980s poker variant called the “I’ll be back” or simply the “chicken,” where players who fold with strong hands would have to buy drinks for their opponents when they won. This lighthearted term was later applied to Craps, becoming an integral Chicken Road part of its cultural identity.
In this article, we will delve into the mechanics and strategies behind Chicken Road, exploring what sets it apart from other casino games. We’ll examine the rules, types, variations, and nuances that make it a thrilling experience for players worldwide.
Game Basics
Chicken Road is played with two six-sided dice on a specially designed table layout, featuring various betting options. The game’s primary objective is to predict the outcome of rolling the dice by placing bets before each roll. Players can wager on various events, such as:
- Pointing: Winning a number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10)
- Odds and Evens: Numbers 1 through 12
- Field Bets: Specific ranges within the numbers
To begin playing Chicken Road, participants first determine who will roll the dice. This is usually done by drawing a random number or using a coin toss method. The player with the higher number starts as “the shooter” and takes their turn rolling.
How to Play
The gameplay involves a sequence of rolls known as the “round.” Each round consists of two primary phases: the Come-Out Roll and subsequent rounds (also called the Point Established Phase ) or, when a point is established:
- The Come-Out Roll: The shooter throws both dice to determine if they roll a natural winning combination (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10), setting the “point” for the round. If they roll these combinations:
- A 7 or an 11 sets the point immediately.
- A 2, 3, or 12 requires rolling again until a natural is achieved (reset).
- Any other number rolls establishes that particular number as the point.
The game’s objective changes depending on whether the established point is reached. If it is:
- To reach or surpass the Established Point: Players bet against the shooter to achieve this by rolling numbers equaling the established point value.
- To get a new Natural Combination (7, 11): This ends the round.
Some rounds lead directly into another “round,” essentially creating an infinite sequence of games within the larger game.
Types or Variations
Chicken Road offers several variations depending on regional preferences and rules:
- Street Craps: An informal version played between friends.
- Bank Craps (table-crapped): Standard, commercial casinos host it on special tables equipped with various betting options.
- Hosted and Live-Craps Games
- Variations
Many variations have been developed through modifications to basic gameplay rules:
- Bakar (Punto Banco) : Uses a “banker” as an impartial house actor, instead of using multiple players competing against the dealer’s player role.
- Live Casino Craps: Hosts and hosts a virtual gaming experience via a video feed while live in other cities worldwide.