Updated on: June 11th, 2020
Sic bo (also known as tai sai, dai siu, Grand Hazard, and or chuck-a-luck) can seem like a bit of enigma. Truth is, not all that many people have played this ancient Chinese gambling game. While it may be a hit in Macau, and available at tables in Las Vegas and Atlantic City in the United States, according to statistics released by Statista, less than 1% of players enjoy a round at a sic bo table when visiting a land-based casino.
So, it is no surprise that most people are not sure how this dice game works. Well, we’re here to tell you that online casino sic bo is strictly a game of chance. Meaning that there aren’t all that many tips or tricks you can use to improve your odds of winning. However, it is still fun to play, which is why we have created the ultimate how to play sic bo guide for those who are interested in getting to know the game.
Below we delve into the following areas of the game:
- Rules
- Betting options
- Odds and payouts
- Strategy
We also list many casinos that allow US gamblers to try playing sic bo online. Although sic bo is often considered a high roller game, these casino sites offer you a generous real money bet range.
Best Sic Bo Online Casinos
Summary of Sic Bo Rules
So, before we get into how a typical game would work, we thought it would be best to summarize the rules of this Chinese dice game.
- Sic bo is a casino game that is played with three dice.
- The dealer rolls the dice in a small cage. Players cannot throw the dice.
- You bet on the results of the throw. There are several different types of bets you can make, for example, “big or small” or single number bets, but we get more into that below.
- You indicate your bet on the sic bo table, which has a specific layout. Some people call it a domino bet structure due to the dice images being so close to each other.
- The payout of each bet is determined with its likelihood of occurring.
- It is possible to place combination bets or multiple bets on a game.
Types of Sic Bo Bets
Sic bo bets center around the dice showing a specific combination of numbers. The types of bets you can make on the dice combination include:
Total
This is a bet on the total score of the dice put together. So, let’s say the scores of the three dice are 2, 3, and 5, the total is then 10. This bet has varying odds as some totals are statistically more likely to appear than others. The range is between 6 to 1 and 60 to 1. Overall, we don’t recommend that you make too many total bets.
Small and Big
This is a variation of a total bet, but instead of betting on a single total, you bet on a range of possible totals. The possible range for a small bet is 4 to 10, whereas the range on a big bet is 11 to 17. There is even odds on this bet, meaning that there is a one to one payout. The low odds are as a result of the fact that there are many possible winning combinations.
It is important to note that a big or small bet loses if a triple appears, which is why 3 and 18 are not included in the combinations. This rule is made to ensure that the casino maintains a house edge.
Combination
With a combination bet, you bet that two particular numbers will appear on the dice. So, for example, you could bet that 4 and 5 are going to appear on the dice. It doesn’t matter what appears on the third die. As long as the other two appear, you earn yourself a payout. This bet isn’t particularly easy to get correct, so there is a 6 to 1 payout option.
Single Bet
With a single bet, you bet on a specific number to appear on one of the three dice. So, for example, let’s say 6 is your chosen number. If it appears on any of the dice after the roll, you win the bet. A single dice bet isn’t that hard to get right because the three die give you three opportunities.
If the number you bet on appear on one dice, you get paid 1 to 1. If it appears on two die, you get paid 2 to 1, and if it appears on three die, you get paid 12 to 1.
Double Bet
A double bet is a bet made on one specific number to appear on two dice landing after the roll. Do not confuse this bet with a combination bet. A double bet requires that two of the same number appears whereas a combination is a bet made on two separate numbers.
So, for example, if your chosen number is 6, you need 6 to appear on two die. You can bet on as many double as you like at one time. The payout on this one is 10 to 1.
Triple Bet
If you are following the trend here, you will probably already know that a triple bet is a bet on one number to appear on each of the dice. So, if your chosen number is 6, you need a triple 6 to win (even if some may think that this is an unlucky number).
With odds of 216 to 1, this bet is almost impossible to get right, which is why the payout is set at 30 to 1. (We don’t think it’s worth it though).
Learn How to Play Sic Bo Step-by-Step
So, here is how a typical sic bo game is played:
- Place your bet on your selected option on the table. Be sure to have a look at what a sic bo table looks like before playing a game, so you know which option is for each bet.
- The dealer will then place the three dice in a small cage and shake it before a roll. If you are playing online, the RNG software will just randomize three numbers.
- The dice numbers are determined, and depending on your bet, you find out if you have won or lost.
Sic Bo Strategy for Beginners
As sic bo is really a fast-paced chased-based gambling game, we generally recommend sticking to low-risk bets. Look, we’re not going to say that the odds on a specific triple bet don’t look appealing. Any bet that pays 30 to 1 is going to make players daydream of what they would do with the winnings. However, we are very aware that these bets are extremely unlikely to payout.
It doesn’t matter what game you are playing; you should always try to be patient. Often, it is a lack of patience in working toward big winnings that leads to you going bust. We are not saying that you shouldn’t ever try your luck with an odd bet involving high odds, but never bet your entire bankroll on it because you’ll just go bust.
This is why we recommend that players betting strategy focus on small and big bets if they are interested in winning at Sic Bo regularly. Yes, this bet pays out one to one, which can be a bit of a drag, but you are more likely to guess correctly because the room for error has been minimized.
Although you have to build up your winnings to get to those big jackpot amounts, it is far more strategic than hoping that the precious dice pair comes up with your double bet or triple in the next round. Because it probably won’t.
Sic Bo Casino Game FAQs
How do you play sic bo and win?
You can win more sic bo games by remaining patient and level-headed with your bets.
Where is sic bo playing in Las Vegas?
You can play sic bo at the Venetian. It is one of the only casinos in the area to offer the popular dice-based gambling game.
What is the best Sic Bo strategy?
Stick to bets with even odds rather than focusing on bets that have almost no chance of winning. In this way, you ensure that you have a greater chance of winning a larger number of bets.
What is house edge for sic bo?
Here is a summary of the house edge on bets available on sic bo:
- Big or Small – 2.78%
- Single Bet – 3.7%
- Double Bet – 11.1%
- Triple – 16.2%
- Combination – 16.67%
Can I play sic bo online?
Yes, you should. Casino sites tend to be a little more generous about minimum betting limits. Also, you are more likely to find the game online than at a local brick-and-mortar casino.
Should I try sic bo?
Well, if you like gambling for the fun of it, we don’t see why not. It is important to remember that this is not a skilled-based gambling game, so you aren’t going to be able to manipulate the odds as much as in a game like blackjack. As long as you understand this, you should be able to make an educated decision on whether you should play it or not.