The layout of a sic bo table
Sic bo (骰寶), also known as tai sai (大細), dai siu (大小), big and small or hi-lo, is an unequal game of chance of ancient Chinese origin played with three dice. Grand hazard and chuck-a-luck are variants, both of English origin. The literal meaning of sic bo is 'precious dice', while dai siu and dai sai mean 'big [or] small'.
Mar 05, 2020 In its simplest form, the player’s goal in Sic Bo is to predict the outcome of a roll of three dice. Similar to craps or roulette, each player places their wagers on a table before the dice are rolled. Sic Bo is also known as tai sai, dai siu, hi-lo, or big and small, the very meaning of sic bo is precious dice. While terms such as dai siu and dai sai mean “big or small”. Just like the gameplay, the sic bo casino game comes with comprehensible rules. Players have a task to come up with the possible combinations.
Sic bo is a casino game, popular in Asia and widely played (as dai siu) in casinos in Macau. It is played in the Philippines as hi-lo.[1] It was introduced to the United States by Chinese immigrants in the early 20th century, and can now be found in most American casinos. Since 2002, it can be played legally in licensed casinos in the United Kingdom.
Gameplay involves betting that a certain condition (e.g. that all three dice will roll the same) will be satisfied by a roll of the dice.[2]
Gameplay[edit]
Players place their bets on certain areas of the table as shown in the picture above. The dealer then picks up a small chest containing the dice, which he/she closes and shakes. Finally the dealer opens the chest to reveal the combination.
Comparison to craps[edit]
Sic bo is one of two casino games involving dice, the other being craps. Sic bo is strictly a game of chance because every roll on the dice results a win or loss on any bet. In craps, some bets require certain rolls before they can become winning or losing bets, thus encouraging strategy.
Betting options[edit]
Type | Wager | Probability | United Kingdom | New Zealand | Macau | No House Edge | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Odds | House Edge | Odds | House Edge | Odds | House Edge | Odds | |||
Big (大) | The total score will be from 11 to 17 (inclusive) with the exception of a triple | 48.61% | 1 to 1 | 2.78% | 1 to 1 | 2.78% | 1 to 1 | 2.78% | 37 to 35 |
Small (小) | The total score will be from 4 to 10 (inclusive) with the exception of a triple | 48.61% | 1 to 1 | 2.78% | 1 to 1 | 2.78% | 1 to 1 | 2.78% | 37 to 35 |
Odd | The total score will be an odd number with the exception of a triple | 48.61% | 1 to 1 | 2.78% | 1 to 1 | 2.78% | 37 to 35 | ||
Even | The total score will be an even number with the exception of a triple | 48.61% | 1 to 1 | 2.78% | 1 to 1 | 2.78% | 37 to 35 | ||
Specific 'Triples' or 'Alls' (圍一 圍二 圍三 圍四 圍五 圍六) | A specific number will appear on all three dice | 0.46% | 180 to 1 | 16.2% | 180 to 1 | 16.2% | 150 to 1 | 30.1% | 215 to 1 |
Specific Doubles | A specific number will appear on at least two of the three dice | 7.41% | 10 to 1 | 18.5% | 11 to 1 | 11.1% | 8 to 1 | 33.3% | 25 to 2 |
Any Triple or All 'Alls' (全圍) | Any of the triples will appear | 2.8% | 30 to 1 | 13.9% | 31 to 1 | 11.1% | 24 to 1 | 30.6% | 35 to 1 |
Three Dice Total (a specific total score in the range of 4 to 17 inclusive) | 4 or 17 | 1.4% | 60 to 1 | 15.3% | 62 to 1 | 12.5% | 50 to 1 | 29.2% | 71 to 1 |
5 or 16 | 2.8% | 30 to 1 | 13.9% | 31 to 1 | 11.1% | 18 to 1 | 47.2% | 35 to 1 | |
6 or 15 | 4.6% | 18 to 1 | 12% | 18 to 1 | 12% | 14 to 1 | 30.6% | 103 to 5 | |
7 or 14 | 6.9% | 12 to 1 | 9.7% | 12 to 1 | 9.7% | 12 to 1 | 9.7% | 67 to 5 | |
8 or 13 | 9.7% | 8 to 1 | 12.5% | 8 to 1 | 12.5% | 8 to 1 | 12.5% | 65 to 7 | |
9 or 12 | 11.6% | 7 to 1 | 7.4% | 7 to 1 | 7.4% | 6 to 1 | 19% | 191 to 25 | |
10 or 11 | 12.5% | 6 to 1 | 12.5% | 6 to 1 | 12.5% | 6 to 1 | 12.5% | 7 to 1 | |
Dice Combinations | Two of the dice will show a specific combination of two different numbers (for example, a 3 and a 4) | 13.9% | 6 to 1 | 2.8% | 6 to 1 | 2.8% | 5 to 1 | 16.7% | 31 to 5 |
Single Dice Bet | The specific number 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 will appear on one, two, or all three dice | 1: 34.72% 2: 6.94% 3: 0.46% | 1: 1 to 1 2: 2 to 1 3: 3 to 1 | 7.9% | 1: 1 to 1 2: 2 to 1 3: 12 to 1 | 3.7% | 1: 1 to 1 2: 2 to 1 3: 3 to 1 | 7.9% | 1: 1 to 1 2: 3 to 1 3: 5 to 1 (simplest version) |
Four Number Combination | Any three of the four numbers in one of the following specific combinations will appear: 6, 5, 4, 3; 6, 5, 3, 2; 5, 4, 3, 2; or 4, 3, 2, 1 | 11.1% | 7 to 1 | 11.1% | 7 to 1 | 11.1% | 7 to 1 | 11.1% | 8 to 1 |
Three Single Number Combination | The dice will show a specific combination of three different numbers | 2.8% | 30 to 1 | 13.9% | 30 to 1 | 13.9% | 35 to 1 | ||
Specific Double and Single Number Combination | Two of the dice will show a specific double and the third die will show a specific, different number | 1.4% | 50 to 1 | 29.2% | 60 to 1 | 15.3% | 71 to 1 |
The most common wagers are 'Big' and 'Small'.
Variants[edit]
Grand Hazard is a gambling game of English origin, also played with three dice. It is distinct from Hazard, another gambling game of English origin, played with two dice. The dice are either thrown with a cup or rolled down a chute containing a series of inclined planes ('hazard chute') that tumble the dice as they fall.[3] Threes-of-a-kind are known as 'raffles' and pay out at 18 to 1.
Chuck-a-luck, also known as 'sweat cloth', 'chuckerluck' and birdcage,[3] is a variant in the United States, which has its origins in grand hazard. The three dice are kept in a device that resembles a wire-frame bird cage and that pivots about its centre. The dealer rotates the cage end over end, with the dice landing on the bottom. Chuck-a-luck usually features only the single-number wagers, sometimes with an additional wager for any 'triple' (all three dice showing the same number) with odds of 30 to 1 (or thereabouts). Chuck-a-luck was once common in Nevada casinos but is now rare, frequently having been replaced by sic bo tables.
See also[edit]
- Cee-lo - a gambling game played with three six-sided dice
Notes[edit]
- ^Online Online Sic Bo Guide
- ^'Rules and Strategies for Sic Bo'. Retrieved December 3, 2010.
- ^ abThe Official World Encyclopaedia of Sports and Games 1979 Diagram Group p 128
References[edit]
Regulation in the United Kingdom
Regulation in New Zealand
Retrieved from 'https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sic_bo&oldid=996046454'
Sic Bo is without a doubt one of the most fun and exciting games that you can play at a live online casino. A fast-paced game of chance with some potentially huge payouts, a multitude of possible betting combinations and simple rules, Sic Bo (pronounced ‘see-bo’) is a welcome addition to the regular stable of casino games.
While it might be a new game for many players here in Canada, Sic Bo is very ancient. In fact, it’s likely that a version has existed for thousands of years. Originally from China, the dice game has always been popular in Asian gaming rooms, but it’s only just starting to gain a foothold in global markets. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the rules of the game and give some tips and tricks on Sic Bo strategy.
What is Live Sic Bo
To get the most out of the game, the best way is to find an online casino offering live Sic Bo. In the live game, a dealer calls for the bets and then shakes three dice to see where the numbers fall. The game unfolds at a fast pace, so players need to think on their feet when deciding how to wager their money. Watching the dealer via the video link retains the authenticity of the experience and is much more satisfying than a computer simulation.
How to Play Sic Bo at a Live Casino
As this engaging dice game starts to catch on across the globe, there are plenty of places where Canadian players can find live Sic Bo online. Be sure to sign up with a site that operates with the Canadian market, and it’s a good idea to read through some reviews before you decide where to play.
Once you’ve found your online Sic Bo casino, it’s time to start playing. The Sic Bo board itself can appear a bit daunting to a new player, but in fact it’s very easy to decipher with a little guidance. Read on for a complete guide to the rules and strategies of playing Sic Bo.
Sic Bo Rules & Betting Strategy
Now let’s look at how the game Sic Bo is played, including the layout of the board, the bets that can be placed, their potential payouts, and some strategies that you can employ to get the most out of this game. The Sic Bo board includes all the payout rates, so once you know what the different options mean, placing bets is very straightforward. Bets can be placed in combination, in the same way as Roulette, so as you become more familiar with the game, you can increase the complexity of your betting strategy.
Small and Big bets. These are two of the most common bets in Sic Bo. In the top left corner of the board is the option to bet that the total number will be ‘small’, meaning 4-10, and in the top right corner ‘big’ meaning 11-17. This pays out at 1 to 1, just like betting on red or black in roulette, so it’s a good choice if you’re playing a low-risk strategy. The chances aren’t quite even, however, since any triple number will result in a loss for both big and small.
Double bets. A double bet, also known as a one-face domino bet, is placed on an exact number or numbers showing on 2 of the 3 dice. These can be placed in combination with other bets, and the payout will be between 8 – 1 and 11 to 1. As with big and small, if all of the dice show the same numbers, all double bets lose. The double bet squares are positioned just to the inside of the big and small bet.
Triple bets. Right in the middle of the top row are the options for triple bets, i.e. that the three dice will show the same number. Betting can be done on any triple, or you can choose a number to bet on. A wager on any triple pays out at 30 to 1, whereas if your chosen triple shows up then there’s a massive 180 to one payout, the biggest on the board. This option alone makes the Sic Bo game even more appealing than roulette, where a similar bet will get only a 35 to 1 return.
Total Number bets. On the second row down on the board, you can place a bet on the total number for all of the dice, excluding the numbers 3 and 18; these fall under triples. The payouts vary according to the probability of that number being thrown, so for example a total number of 4 or 17 will pay out at around 60 to 1, while 8 or 13 will be much lower, at around 8 – 1.
Combination bets. These are also called two-face domino bets, and they feature on the third row down on the board. In this bet, you can choose a combination of any two different numbers to appear on the dice. All these pay out at 5 to 1, and they can be used as part of a medium-risk strategy.
Single bets. At the bottom of the board is where you find the single bet options. Betting on a single number appearing on the dice is allowed, and it will pay out at 1 to 1 if it shows on one die, 2 to 1 if it shows on two, and 3 to 1 if it appears on the three dice – quite different to a winning triple bet.
Play Sic Bo online, free
Live Sic Bo Online Variations
Sic Bo doesn’t have any variants with different rules, although the payouts and house edge can vary. There are some similar games available online, such as Chuck-a-Luck or Grand Hazard, which are based on the original Chinese game. You’re unlikely to find a live dealer version of these games though, so for the full experience, stick to the original Sic Bo game.
Sic Bo Tips & Tricks
Sic Bo is a game of chance, but that doesn’t mean that there can’t be some strategy involved. There are 216 ways that the dice can fall in total, and the probabilities of certain combinations coming up are well documented.
The bets with the smallest house edge are the big and small bets, and with a high probability and low payout, they are also the bets that carry the lowest risk. Using these with a few combination bets thrown in is a good beginner strategy.
When choosing a Sic Bo strategy, keep in mind that the payouts are less than the true probability, in order for the house to keep its edge. As well as the big and small bets, the other bets with a low house edge include total bets on 7 or 14, 9 or 12 and 10 or 11, and all single bets.
Best Way To Play Sic Bo
If you’re ready to be a Sic Bo high roller, try spreading your bets so that there are at least four ways to win with each shake of the dice.
Dealer Interactions & Etiquette at a Live Sic Bo Game
Playing Sic Bo at the casino can come with some etiquette issues that may be unfamiliar for Canadians. Luckily, the online live casino version has eliminated the risk of making a cultural faux pas. The dealer will call for bets, and there is only a short time in which to decide. There is a countdown clock, and when it reaches zero, all bets must be in place and the dealer shakes the dice. The dealer can respond verbally to questions from the chat box, and it goes without saying to be polite and respectful and to take any losses with good humor. In some cases, you can interact with other players as well.
Bonuses & Promotions for Live Sic Bo Online
If you’re looking for an online casino offering live Sic Bo, then you’ll also want to keep an eye out for special bonuses and promotions. Most reputable online casinos will offer these types of incentives to new and existing customers, some of which may be exclusive to live casino players. Look out for generous welcome bonus offers when making a new account, which can give a boost to your first few deposits.
Many casinos will also release regular bonus codes, and some also have a cashback option which returns a portion of any losses. To avoid any unwelcome surprises, always check out the wagering requirements on bonus offers.
Responsible Gambling & Money Management
As with all casino games, it pays to be prudent when playing Sic Bo live online. Set limits on how much you’re willing to bet and lose, and make sure to stick to them. Many online casinos now have settings where you can choose your upper limit, and when you reach it you will be automatically prevented from continuing to play.
If you feel like you need assistance in keeping your gambling under control, all reputable online casinos have a commitment to responsible gambling and have support agents on hand to help you with your money management.
Summary of Live Sic Bo Online
How Do You Play Sic Bo
Live Sic Bo is a thrilling addition to the world of live online casino, and it seems certain that it won’t be long before it is fully embraced by the Canadian market. Fans of Craps will be especially pleased to see another quick and exciting dice game in the mix. The wide range of betting options make this an ideal game for newcomers and old hands alike, and it’s perfect whether you’re feeling cautious or daring. Best of all, with live dealer Sic Bo online, you’ll get the sensation of playing the game in an authentic setting.