Dealer's Choice

Craps is filled with unique jargon and nuanced rules that can vary slightly from one casino to another. One term that occasionally pops up in casual craps games or certain regional variations is 'Dealer’s Choice'.

While this term is more commonly associated with poker, its presence in craps refers to a specific and rare scenario where the dealer may offer flexibility or options to players, often in informal or home games. Let’s explore what Dealer’s Choice means in the context of craps, where you’re likely to encounter it, and how it affects your gameplay.

Understanding Dealer’s Choice in Craps

In the world of casino craps, rules are standardized and strictly enforced by the house to maintain fairness and consistency. However, in home games or less formal environments, there’s sometimes a more relaxed approach to certain rules or bet types. That’s where Dealer’s Choice can come into play.

At its core, Dealer’s Choice in craps refers to a situation where the dealer has the discretion to allow or suggest non-standard bets or game variations. This might involve approving side bets, modifying payout odds in special cases, or allowing fun bets that aren’t typically permitted on a traditional casino table.

It’s important to note that you’re unlikely to encounter “Dealer’s Choice” in a commercial casino setting. There, the dealers follow the house’s rules exactly, and deviations are not permitted. However, in private games, charity events, or informal casino nights, this flexibility adds a layer of creativity and fun to the game.

Examples of Dealer’s Choice Situations

Here are a few examples of how Dealer’s Choice might manifest in a craps game:

Custom Side Bets: A player wants to bet that the shooter will roll a specific combination like 3-3 followed by a 2-2. If the dealer allows it and agrees on odds, that’s Dealer’s Choice in action.
Modified Minimum Bets: In a home game, if the host acting as the dealer agrees to let players bet lower than the stated table minimum, that can be a dealer’s discretionary choice.
Flexible Odds: The dealer may offer better-than-normal odds for a specific roll if it spices up the action or rewards a new player.

Dealer’s Choice vs Standard Craps Rules

There’s a clear distinction between the informal Dealer’s Choice scenarios and traditional craps gameplay. In a professional casino:

All bets are predefined by the house.
Payouts are fixed and follow strict guidelines.
Dealers do not have discretion over gameplay or bets.

That’s why you’ll usually only hear the term “Dealer’s Choice” in relation to home games or poker, where it’s more widely accepted.

Still, understanding this term is valuable, especially if you ever host or join a private craps game where the atmosphere is more about entertainment than strict regulation.

Is Dealer’s Choice Good for Players?

It depends on the context. In a friendly home game, Dealer’s Choice can be fun and inclusive, allowing new or hesitant players to engage with the game in a less intimidating way. But from a strategic or advantage-play perspective, it may introduce uncertainty or reduce the clarity of the game’s odds and fairness.

If you’re a seasoned player who relies on mathematical edges and disciplined betting, Dealer’s Choice rules could throw off your rhythm. However, if you're just there to have fun, it can add flavor to the session.

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