How to Play Sic Bo: Guide To Sic Bo Rules, Bets and Strategies

Introduction

Sic Bo is a popular dice game that has long been played in land-based casinos. It’s a game of chance that combines elements of luck and skill, providing players with an adrenaline-fueled experience that is hard to replicate. With its fast-paced gameplay, extensive range of betting options, and the possibility of significant wins, sic bo has captured the attention of players worldwide.

Whether you’re an experienced player or a beginner looking to try your luck, the basic rules of sic bo remain the same. The game involves three dice, which are rolled to generate a combination of numbers. Players then place their bets on the outcome, with various options available, including betting on specific numbers, number combinations, and even the total value of the dice.

Despite the simplicity of the game, winning at sic bo requires a level of strategy and understanding. With the right approach, players can increase their chances of winning and maximize their payouts. In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation of the rules of sic bo and share some tips and tricks to help you succeed in this exciting game of chance.

What is Sic Bo?

Sic Bo, also knowns as dai siu and big and small, is a casino game of chance that originated in Ancient China. The game relies upon three dice being rolled on a tabletop. Players can bet on the outcome of any combination of the dice rolls using betting areas displayed on the sic bo table. When all bets are settled, the round ends and another begins.

The objective of sic bo is to predict the outcome of a roll before it happens by placing wagers on various combinations within the sic bo table layout. Bets can be placed on single numbers, ranges or totals:

• Single number – if you bet that one particular number will come up, your payout will be 1 :1 (e.g. if you bet on 4, and the dice show 4, you win).
• Range – a range bet pays out if one or more of your chosen numbers come up within the sic bo table layout (e.g. betting 3 to 6 will pay out even if only one of those numbers is rolled).
• Total – a total bet pays out based on the sum of all three dice being higher or lower than a set amount (e.g. betting that the total will be over 13 will pay out even if 14 is rolled).

How to Play Sic Bo?

Learning how to play sic bo is essential for anyone who wants to try their luck in this exciting game. The first step to playing sic bo is to understand the different betting options available. From betting on specific numbers to wagering on combinations and totals, there are numerous variables to consider before placing any bets.

Once you’ve chosen your betting options, the game begins. The dealer will roll three dice, and the outcome will determine the winning bets. Players who have placed their bets on the correct outcome will receive payouts according to the sic bo table layout.

While the rules of sic bo may seem simple, mastering the game takes time and effort. Experienced players often develop strategies and techniques to increase their chances of winning. For beginners, it’s important to take the time to learn the ins and outs of sic bo before placing any bets. With practice and persistence, players can improve their skills and maximize their payouts in this thrilling game of chance.

Sic Bo Bet Types

Big and Small Bets

Players can bet on the total sum of the three dice being either ‘big’ (11-17) or ‘small’ (4-10). Payouts for these bets are 1:1.

Specific Triples Bet

If all three dice roll the same number, this bet pays out at a rate of 180:1.

Any Triples Bet

Any triples bet pays out at a rate of 30:1. This bet is won if any three dice roll the same number, regardless of what that number is.

Doubles Bet 

Trying to predict two of the three dice? You can bet on two specific numbers being rolled and if both come up, you are paid at a rate of 11:1.

Dice Combination Bet

This bet pays out at a rate of 6:1 if two specific numbers are rolled.

Three Dice Total Bet

You can wager on the total sum of all three dice being either even or odd, over/under a certain number, or in a specific range.

Single Dice Bet

If you’re feeling lucky, you can bet on a specific number appearing on any of the dice.

Sic bo variants

Grand Hazard

Grand Hazard is a sic bo variant played with two dice instead of three. The betting options are slightly different, and players can also bet on the dealer rolling a specific number or ‘hazard’ (a double).

Chuck-a-Luck (Bird Cage)

Chuck-a-Luck, also known as Bird Cage, is a sic bo variant played with three dice. The layout of the sic bo table is slightly different, featuring an hourglass-shaped cage which the dealer uses to roll and shake the dice.

Yee Hah Hi

Yee Hah Hi is sic bo variant played with five dice instead of three. There are an incredible number of betting options available, all of which can be found on the sic bo table layout.

Hoo Hee How

Hoo Hee How is sic bo variant played with four dice rather than three. The betting options are slightly different from classic sic bo, and can be found on the sic bo table layout.

Best Sic Bo Strategies

Understand the Rules

It goes without saying that sic bo players should understand the rules of sic bo before they start playing. All sic bo tables have their own set of betting options, so it’s important to check what these are before you place a sic bo bet.

Don’t Bet on Too Many Areas at Once

The sic bo table layout may look tempting, but players should resist the urge to place too many sic bo bets at once. Try spreading your sic bo wagers across a few different areas of the sic bo table instead.

The Big or Small Area is a Good Bet

The sic bo table layout features a ‘big’ and ‘small’ area. In the long run, this area will pay out more than other sic bo bets.

Check RTP and Volatility

Before you play sic bo, check the RTP and volatility of the game. This will give you a better indication of how much you can expect to win during each sic bo session.

Top 5 Tips How to Win at Sic Bo

Learn the Sic Bo Table and the Available Bets

As sic bo is a game of chance, understanding the sic bo table and all the sic bo bets available is essential.

Practice Sic Bo for Free

Most sic bo casinos offer a free play version of the game, so it’s definitely worth giving this a go first. This way, you can practice sic bo without risking any of your own money.

Start Out Placing Straightforward Bets

When you first start playing sic bo, it’s best to stick with straightforward bets like big, small and sic bo specific triples. This way, you can familiarize yourself with how sic bo is played without any added complications.

Carefully Manage Your Bankroll

Managing your sic bo bankroll should be your top priority. Set yourself some loss and win limits that you stick to, and try not to bet too much money in one sic bo session.

Take Advantage of Bonuses and Promotions

If an online sic bo casino offers bonuses or promotions, make sure you take full advantage! Most casinos have wagering requirements attached to their bonuses and promotions, so make sure you check this out before claiming any sic bo bonus.

Know Your Limits

Before you start playing sic bo, set yourself some realistic win and loss limits. This will help you keep tabs on how much money you’re spending during each sic bo session.

Know When to Quit

It’s important to know when to quit sic bo, as the likelihood of winning all the time is slim. Set a budget before you start playing sic bo and stick to it. If you hit that budget, take a break and come back another day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is Sic Bo played?

Sic Bo is a dice game where players can place wagers on the outcome of three dice being rolled. The sic bo table layout features a range of sic bo bets, which players can make with different odds and payouts.

What is the best bet in Sic Bo?

The sic bo table layout features a ‘big’ and ‘small’ area, which are the two best sic bo bets. Betting on these areas will give you the highest chances of winning in sic bo.

How do you play Sic Bo online?

Playing sic bo online is relatively straightforward. All you need to do is sign up to an online sic bo casino and find the sic bo table. Check what sic bo betting options are available and make your sic bo wagers.

How many combinations does Sic Bo have?

There are 216 sic bo combinations in total. These sic bo combinations can be divided into sic bo triples, sic bo doubles and sic bo singles.

What is the best bet in Sic Bo?

The sic bo table layout features a ‘big’ and ‘small’ area, which are the two best sic bo bets. Betting on these areas will give you the highest chances of winning in sic bo.

What is the difference between craps and Sic Bo?

The main difference between sic bo and craps is that sic bo uses three dice while craps uses two. Sic bo also offers a huge range of sic bo bets, which are not available in craps.

How do you predict big and small games?

There is no surefire way to predict sic bo big and small outcomes. Instead, sic bo players should focus on making sic bo bets with the lowest house edge.

What is the house edge in sic bo?

The sic bo house edge can vary depending on the sic bo bet you make. In general, big and small wagers have a lower house edge than specific sic bo triples or doubles.