Game Theory Optimal Craps Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. If craps has a house edge, how can any strategy help?
Game Theory Optimal Craps does not claim to eliminate the house edge. Instead, it focuses on managing risk, controlling variance, and positioning bets in ways that reduce volatility. Most players lose not because of the edge itself, but because variance and poor discipline overwhelm their bankroll.

2. Aren’t all rolls independent? How do probabilities change?
Each roll is independent, but your exposure changes after every roll. Once points are established, bets move, resolve, or become protected. Strategy is about reacting to how your position changes, not predicting the next roll.

3. How is this different from simply playing the Pass Line with odds?
Pass Line with odds is solid, but limited. Game Theory Optimal Craps expands on this by layering positions, balancing exposure, and creating multiple ways to win on a single roll while still keeping house edge low.

4. Why is variance such a big focus?
Variance is the number one bankroll killer in craps. Even good bets can produce large swings. This approach is designed to smooth results, reduce emotional decision-making, and keep the player above damaging downswings.

5. Isn’t betting both for and against the table canceling yourself out?
No. The goal isn’t cancellation—it’s balance. Strategic opposing positions reduce volatility, protect the bankroll, and allow the player to benefit from multiple outcomes without being overexposed to one result.

6. If the seven is so powerful, why not just bet the Don’t?
Pure Don’t betting limits earning potential and increases exposure during long point cycles. Game Theory Optimal Craps uses the seven as a structural advantage while still generating income from other outcomes.

7. How do Don’t Come bets help?
Don’t Come bets provide flexible positioning. They benefit from the seven, allow controlled use of odds, and help stabilize results during extended rolls without requiring constant bet changes.

8. When should odds be used?
Odds are applied selectively, not automatically. They are added when the player already holds a favorable position, helping reinforce strength or recover small drawdowns without increasing unnecessary risk.

9. Doesn’t layering bets increase risk?
Only when done incorrectly. In this framework, layering is used to distribute risk, not amplify it. The goal is to avoid reliance on a single outcome while keeping total exposure controlled.

10. How does this strategy handle long rolls?
Long rolls are managed through balanced positioning and patience. Instead of chasing or pressing aggressively, the strategy maintains structure and lets probability work over time.

11. What protects the bankroll during a down trend?
Low-house-edge bets, limited exposure, and disciplined odds usage act as natural defenses. The strategy is designed to withstand unfavorable stretches without catastrophic losses.

12. Can this strategy scale to higher limits?
Yes. The structure is scalable because it focuses on ratios and positioning, not fixed bet sizes. Players can adjust stakes without changing the core strategy.

13. How is this different from hedge systems?
Hedge systems often increase house edge and complexity. Game Theory Optimal Craps emphasizes mathematically sound bets and controlled balance rather than expensive insurance plays.

14. Why not press aggressively when winning?
Aggressive pressing increases variance and often gives winnings back quickly. This strategy prioritizes consistency and controlled growth over short-term spikes.

15. Do table limits matter?
Table limits can affect flexibility, especially with odds. However, the core principles remain effective across most casino conditions.

16. Is this strategy for short or long sessions?
It works best over longer sessions where variance can normalize, but disciplined players can apply it in shorter sessions as well.

17. How do you know when to walk away?
Game Theory Optimal Craps emphasizes staying in the game as long as your position remains strong and risk is controlled. The focus is on managing exposure and adjusting bets, not leaving at arbitrary win or loss points. Walking away is a tactical choice only when conditions no longer favor disciplined play, allowing probability to work over time.

18. Why is patience so important?
Craps rewards impulsive behavior with large swings. Patience allows the strategy to function as intended and prevents emotional mistakes.

19. Is this for casual or serious players?
Both. Casual players gain structure and protection; serious players gain consistency, scalability, and bankroll control.

20. How is this different from “playing scared”?
Playing scared avoids risk without purpose. Game Theory Optimal Craps manages risk intelligently, allowing confident play while respecting the math of the game.

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