Casinos have rules for table games. Some are to protect the games, while others help make it comfortable and fun for all players.
Beyond rules, there are expectations that the house and other players have that patrons will be polite and not create drama at the tables. These are more etiquette than rules. Here are some examples.
Craps
Craps is the most chaotic table game. This requires players and dealers to work together to help make the game run smoothly. Here are some craps etiquette tips.
When entering a game, it is best to wait until a come out roll to buy in. Some players prefer a roll not to slow down to sell chips and swipe players cards. This can affect the table energy. If you do this and a 7-out comes on the next roll, expect the players to be unhappy with your action.
Once you have chips, there are some preferred actions to make. Place the chips you need the dealers to make on the Come bet area. Clearly explain to the dealer what bets you want placed. Never throw chips into existing bets. This is called splashing chips and can confuse the dealer.
Get all bets in while the dice are in the middle. Late bets are often called off. It can slow the game down and force the dealer to bring the dice back to the center if bets are made after the dice are out.
Craps tables have a shelf around the outside. This is for drinks. Never hold your drink over the table. Spilling it on the felt will cause a big delay and may get you booted from the table after the cleaning finishes.
Most players bet the Pass Line, Come bets, and buy and place numbers. If you bet the Don’t Pass, Don’t Come, and lay numbers, it is considered rude to cheer when the shooter rolls a seven-out. Keep your celebration quiet unless your intention is to annoy the other players.
When you are the shooter, roll quickly. Players who take a long time to set the dice and play with them slow the game down. Make sure to always hit the back wall with both dice every time.
Craps is a superstitious game. Some players find it rude to talk about a 7 in the middle of a roll.
The 11 can sound like 7. When making bets on the 11, refer to it as “yo” to help speed the game up.
Dealers work on tips. Most prefer bets over handing tips in. Feel free to bet for the dealers and let them know they are in action. Make smart bets like the Pass Line or Field with the lower house edges. You can also place odds bets for dealers. This is known as shoes.
If a point is established, do not touch the Pass Line bet. It is in action until the point hits or a 7 rolls.
Some may want to watch a craps table to learn the game. That is fine. However, make sure to stand away from the table to give players room and space for new players to join.
Blackjack
When entering a blackjack game, make sure to know the rules about entering mid-shoe. Generally, blackjack games with one or two decks do not allow joining in the middle of a shoe. Players must wait until the shuffle before joining. Some six and eight-deck games also have this rule. If the blackjack table permits entering mid-shoe, ask other players at the table if they mind, and be prepared to wait until the dealer shuffles to play.
It annoys players when others bounce between tables. Pull up a seat and stay a while.
Don’t slow the game down. Have your bets ready and be prepared to make your action on your turn. The house, dealer, and other players will appreciate not having to wait for your next play.
Don’t offer unsolicited blackjack strategy at the table. If a player asks for help, feel free to answer, but be prepared for them not to follow your advice.
Don’t berate other players for not knowing how to play. Their mistakes do not affect the outcome over a large sample size. They are just as likely to take the dealer’s bust card as they are to change the outcome in the players’ favor.
If drink holders are available, always use one. This avoids spills. Avoid placing anything other than chips on the felt.
As with all games, make tip bets for the dealer. These go just in front of the betting circle.
Roulette
Space at a roulette table is tight. Take up as little room as possible. Keep your personal belongings off the table. This allows everyone to be comfortable and provides spots for others to join. Don’t try to buy in during the middle of a spin. Wait until it is over.
Avoid reaching over other players. Ask the dealer for help if you cannot reach a place you would like to bet. There are often spaces to bet the zeros on the outside felt to prevent reaching. Do not touch other players’ chips on the felt. Place chips gently. Do not toss them.
Telling other players how to bet is bad form. Let players use their chips how they wish, even if they are betting against you.
To make it easier to determine chip ownership, colored sets are used for each player. Color these up at the table before leaving. These have no value at other tables.
Don’t Let This Discourage You From Playing
This all may seem like a lot to understand. It may be intimidating for new players. Don’t let that keep you from learning the games. Dealers and other players understand that everyone has a first time. They will help you learn and will not get mad at an occasional error. Have fun and learn the rules and etiquette as you go.
