What Is Sic Bo? Rules, Bets, and How to Play
Sic bo is a fast-paced dice game where players bet on the outcome of three rolled dice. The game offers multiple betting options, each with different odds and payouts. To start, place your chips on the marked sections of the table corresponding to your chosen bet before the dice are rolled.
The simplest bet is predicting a specific number appearing on one or more dice. For example, betting on a single number (like „4“) pays 1:1 if it appears once, 2:1 for two matches, and 3:1 for all three dice showing that number. Bigger payouts come from combinations, such as betting on the total sum of the dice (ranging from 4 to 17). A total of 4 or 17 pays 50:1, while more common sums like 9 or 12 offer lower odds.
Another popular option is the Small or Big bet, where you wager on the total being between 4-10 (Small) or 11-17 (Big). These bets pay even money (1:1) but lose if a triple (all three dice showing the same number) appears. For higher risk and reward, try betting on specific triples, which can pay up to 180:1.
To improve your chances, focus on bets with lower house edges. The Small/Big bets have a 2.78% edge, while single-number wagers range between 7.87% and 30.56%. Avoid high-payout bets like exact triples unless you’re comfortable with the risk. Watching several rounds before betting helps you spot patterns in the game’s flow.
Understanding the basic bets and payouts in sic bo
Start with the simplest bets in sic bo–Small and Big. A Small bet wins if the three dice total between 4 and 10 (excluding triples), while a Big bet wins on totals between 11 and 17 (also excluding triples). Both pay 1:1, making them beginner-friendly.
Single-number bets
Bet on a specific number (1 through 6) appearing on one, two, or all three dice. If your number shows up once, the payout is 1:1. Two matches pay 2:1, and if all three dice land on your number, you win 3:1. The more dice that match, the higher the reward.
Combination bets
Wager on any two numbers appearing together on the dice. For example, betting on 2 and 4 means you win if both numbers show up, regardless of the third die. These bets pay 5:1, offering better odds than single-number bets.
For higher payouts, try a Triple bet (predicting all three dice to show the same number). The payout is 30:1, but the odds are low. A Any Triple bet (any three identical numbers) pays 24:1, giving slightly better chances.
Check the exact payouts at your chosen sic bo table, as they may vary slightly. Stick to lower-risk bets like Small/Big while learning, then explore higher-reward options as you gain confidence.
Step-by-step guide to placing bets in sic bo
1. Choose your bet type
Pick a bet from the available options on the sic bo table. Common bets include Small/Big (1:1), Specific Triple (180:1), or a Double (10:1). Each bet has different odds and payout rates.
2. Place chips on the betting area
Put your chips directly on the marked section of the table matching your chosen bet. For example, place chips on „Big“ if you predict the dice total will be 11-17. The dealer will confirm your bet before rolling.
If you want multiple bets in one round, distribute chips across different areas. You can bet on both „Small“ and a specific number like „11“ simultaneously.
3. Wait for the dice roll
After all bets are placed, the dealer shakes and reveals the dice in a chest. No further bets can be made once the dice are in motion.
4. Collect winnings or lose your bet
The dealer compares the dice result with all placed bets. If your prediction matches, you receive a payout based on the bet’s odds. For example, a winning „Double 4“ bet pays 10 times your stake.
Losing bets are cleared from the table. The next round begins with new betting opportunities.
FAQ:
What is Sic Bo and how is it played?
Sic Bo is a dice game of Chinese origin, played with three dice. Players place bets on possible outcomes before the dice are rolled. The dealer shakes a chest containing the dice, and winning bets are paid based on the combination that appears. Common bets include predicting the total sum of the dice, specific numbers appearing, or combinations of numbers.
What are the most common bets in Sic Bo?
The most popular bets in Sic Bo are Small (total sum 4-10), Big (total sum 11-17), and specific triple bets (all three dice showing the same number). Other options include betting on doubles, single numbers, or combinations of two numbers appearing. Each bet has different payout odds, with triples offering the highest rewards.
How do payouts work in Sic Bo?
Payouts depend on the bet type and its probability. For example, Small and Big bets usually pay 1:1, while a triple bet can pay up to 180:1. A bet on a specific double pays around 10:1, and a single-number bet (if one die matches) pays 1:1, two matching dice pay 2:1, and three matching dice pay 3:1.
Is Sic Bo a game of skill or luck?
Sic Bo is purely a game of chance. Since outcomes depend on random dice rolls, no strategy can influence the result. Players can only choose bets with different risk levels—higher payouts come with lower odds of winning. Understanding probabilities helps in making informed decisions, but luck determines the final outcome.
Are there any tips for beginners playing Sic Bo?
New players should start with simpler bets like Small/Big or single-number bets, as they have higher winning chances. Avoid high-risk bets like triples unless willing to accept low odds. Setting a budget and sticking to it prevents excessive losses, as Sic Bo moves quickly and can tempt players to chase losses.
What are the basic rules of Sic Bo?
Sic Bo is a dice game where players bet on the outcome of three rolled dice. The game uses a table with various betting options, each with different odds. Before the dice roll, you place chips on your chosen bet. Common bets include predicting the total sum of the dice, specific numbers appearing, or combinations. After bets are placed, the dealer shakes and reveals the dice, and winning bets are paid according to the odds. The rules are simple, but the variety of bets makes the game exciting.