The idea of dice control in craps is a fairly controversial theory. Proponents of this method claim that there are techniques in dice throwing that can be practiced and learned so as to influence the outcome of the game.

The idea behind dice control is that a combination of dice setting and strategic rotational throwing can mean a higher probability of hitting certain numbers over others. If executed properly, proponents say, a game of craps could, over the long haul, swing from the house’s favor to the player’s, thereby securing a statistical profit for committed throwers. There are a number of websites that advertise the services of a “dice coach”, who is said to be an expert in the art and science of good throwing. These websites abound with testimonies about the supposed veracity and profitability of learning good dice technique.

Casinos seem unsure of how to deal with the concept of influencing the dice’s roll in craps. And just to be on the safe side, many of them specify strict requirements that the shooter throw the dice in such a way that it bounces off the wall on the opposite end of the table in order for the roll to be considered valid. Even dice control proponents admit that this significantly reduces the odds of predicting a correct result.

Gambling legend Stanford Wong (a legend principally in the blackjack arena but famous in the casino community at large for his intellectual and thoughtful approach to the table games) participated in an experiment about six years ago in which he implemented the techniques learned about dice setting and throwing against another player who merely threw the dice haphazardly and randomly. The results were intriguing: Wong managed to throw a seven about 3% more often than his opponent, who was known only by the sobriquet “Little Joe”. Does it prove that dice setting and throwing is effective? No. It’s just a single study and a broader examination of dicing technique reveals the method to be at worst a red herring and at best inconclusive.

Dice “experts” advise shooters to pay careful attention to their grip, alignment and delivery. After setting the die by aligning them in a pre-determined way, the shooter is advised to place an equal amount of pressure on each side of the die. At the delivery stage, the shooter is supposed to throw the die in such a way that it runs parallel to the vertical axis of the table. For more advanced play, the shooter should attempt to add a slight backspin at the end of the delivery through a rotating the shoulder and/or wrist.

We’re skeptical, and have yet to see proof that it absolutely works. The only way you’re reliably going to interfere and influence the roll is by using the Force, for which you’ll need to have graduated to Jedi status already. Leave the craps rolls to Luke Skywalker. Focus on odds.

Learn more about craps:

• Craps Tips
• Craps Strategies
• Craps Game Reviews/Previews