How to Play Sic Bo Game

Sic Bo, also known as dai siu or tai sai, is a Chinese dice game that has gained international popularity. You place bets on the outcome of a roll of three dice. The game offers various betting options, from simple high/low wagers to specific number combinations.

Sic Bo’s appeal lies in its straightforward rules and the thrill of quick results. Each round starts with you placing bets on the table. The dealer then shakes the dice in a small chest or mechanical tumbler and reveals the outcome. Winning bets are paid out according to the odds displayed on the table.

The game’s unpredictability makes it exciting, but it’s important to understand that Sic Bo is purely chance-based. Your decisions are limited to choosing bets and managing your bankroll.

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The Basics of Sic Bo

The main components of Sic Bo are:

• Three dice: Usually small and of equal size
• Dice shaker: A chest or mechanical device to roll the dice
• Sic Bo table: Displays betting options and payouts

The dice are at the heart of the game. Each die is a normal die with six sides numbered from 1 to 6. The combination of these three dice determines the outcome of each roll.

The dice shaker ensures fair and random results. In live casinos, dealers use a chest to shake the dice, while online versions use random number generators to simulate rolls.

Chips are used to place bets, with different chip colors typically representing different betting amounts.

Sic Bo Table Layout

The Sic Bo table layout can seem complex at first glance, but it’s organized logically into three distinct sections, each representing different types of bets. Let’s break down each section in detail:

Top Section – Specific Triple Bets 

The uppermost portion of the table features boxes for specific triple bets. Each box shows a number from 1 to 6, representing bets where you’re wagering that all three dice will land on that specific number. These bets offer the highest payouts in the game, typically ranging from 150:1 to 180:1, depending on the casino.

Middle Section – Total Sum Bets 

This section displays betting options for the combined total of all three dice, ranging from 4 to 17. Each possible sum has its own betting box with corresponding payout ratios. The most commonly played bets in this section are:

• Big: Total sum between 11-17 (pays 1:1)
• Small: Total sum between 4-10 (pays 1:1)
• Specific totals: Individual sum bets with varying payouts based on probability

Bottom Section – Single Numbers, Doubles, and Combinations 

The lower portion contains several betting options:

• Single Number Bets: Wager on how many dice will show a specific number (1-6)
• Double Bets: Betting that two dice will show the same number
• Combination Bets: Betting on any two specific numbers appearing

Additional Popular Betting Options:

• Any Triple: A bet that all three dice will show matching numbers, regardless of the specific number (typically pays 30:1)
• Odd/Even: Betting whether the total sum will be odd or even (pays 1:1)
• Domino Combinations: Betting on specific two-number combinations

Most Sic Bo tables have designated areas for players to place their chips. Always place your bets within the appropriate betting boxes and avoid reaching across other players’ betting areas. 

Wait for the dealer to announce “no more bets” before removing your hands from the table.

Understanding the table layout is crucial for efficient betting. Take time to observe a few rounds before playing, and don’t hesitate to ask the dealer for clarification about any betting areas or payouts you’re unsure about.

How to Play Sic Bo

Placing Bets

Before each round, players have time to place their bets on the illuminated table layout. Here’s a comprehensive guide to placing your bets and understanding the associated payouts:

Basic Betting Process

• Wait for the previous round to complete and payouts to be settled
• Place your chips directly on your chosen betting areas
• You can place multiple bets in a single round
• Betting continues until the dealer announces “no more bets”

The most popular Betting Options and Payouts are:

Small/Big Bets (Even Money – 1:1)

• Small (4-10): Wins if the total of three dice is between 4 and 10
• Big (11-17): Wins if the total of three dice is between 11 and 17 Note: Both bets lose if any triple appears (three matching numbers)

Single Die Bets

• Single Number (1:1 to 3:1): Bet on a specific number appearing on one, two, or all three dice
• Payout increases based on how many dice show your chosen number:
  • One die: 1:1
  • Two dice: 2:1
  • Three dice: 3:1

Double Bets (8:1 to 11:1)

• Bet that two dice will show your chosen number
• Example: Betting on “Double 4s” wins if at least two 4s appear

Triple Bets

• Specific Triple (150:1 to 180:1): All three dice show your chosen number
• Any Triple (30:1): Any three matching numbers appear These offer the highest payouts but are the riskiest bets

Two Dice Combination (5:1 to 6:1)

• Bet on any two specific numbers appearing
• Example: Betting on “2-5” wins if both 2 and 5 appear on any dice

Total Sum Bets

• Bet on the exact sum of all three dice
• Payouts vary based on probability:
  • 4 or 17 (50:1 to 60:1)
  • 5 or 16 (20:1 to 30:1)
  • 6 or 15 (15:1 to 20:1)
  • 7 or 14 (12:1 to 15:1)
  • 8 or 13 (8:1 to 10:1)
  • 9 or 12 (6:1 to 8:1)
  • 10 or 11 (6:1)

Payouts vary based on probability. Riskier bets like Specific Triples offer higher payouts.

Rolling the Dice

After bets are placed, the dealer shakes a chest containing three dice. In some versions, you may shake the chest yourself. The dealer then opens the chest to reveal the dice results.

Online Sic Bo uses a random number generator to determine dice outcomes, however if you’re playing the live dealer versions then this will show the actual dice being rolled.

Rules and Gameplay

The fundamental goal of Sic Bo is to correctly predict various outcomes of the three dice being rolled. Each round begins with players placing their wagers. After the dice are rolled and the outcome is determined, the dealer promptly collects all losing bets before paying out the winners according to the predetermined payout ratios.

One of the appealing aspects of Sic Bo is its flexibility in betting options and player participation. Players can spread their chances by placing multiple bets in a single round, potentially winning on several different combinations simultaneously. 

Unlike some table games that limit the number of participants, Sic Bo welcomes any number of players at the table, as each person bets independently against the house rather than competing with fellow players.

The game maintains a brisk pace, with each round typically completed in 30-45 seconds.This quick rhythm of Sic Bo makes it particularly attractive to those who enjoy fast-paced casino action.

It’s crucial to understand that Sic Bo is entirely a game of chance, with no element of skill or strategy able to influence the outcome. Each roll of the dice is an independent event, and previous results have no bearing on future outcomes. The house maintains its advantage through carefully calculated odds that slightly favor the casino across all betting options. 

This house edge is notably higher than many other casino games, particularly when compared to games like blackjack or baccarat. The edge varies significantly depending on the type of bet placed, ranging from around 2.78% on simpler bets to over 15% on more exotic wagers. 

Understanding these odds can help players make more informed decisions about their betting choices, even though they cannot influence the actual outcomes.

Understanding the types of Sic Bo Bets

Sic Bo offers a variety of betting options, each with unique odds and payouts. Understanding these bets is important for developing a successful strategy.

Small and Big Bets

Small and Big bets are among the most popular in Sic Bo. A Small bet wins if the total of the three dice is between 4 and 10, excluding triples. A Big bet wins on totals from 11 to 17, also excluding triples. Both bets typically pay even money (1:1).

These bets have a relatively low house edge, making them attractive to many players. The probability of winning a Small or Big bet is about 48.6%, as triples (which occur about 2.8% of the time) result in a loss for both.

Single Number Bets

When placing a single number bet in Sic Bo, you’re wagering that your chosen number will appear on at least one of the three dice. The beauty of this bet lies in its tiered payout structure, meaning that  the more dice that show your selected number, the higher your reward. 

For instance, if you bet on the number 4, you’ll receive a 1:1 payout if it appears on one die, 2:1 if it shows on two dice, and 3:1 if all three dice display your chosen number. 

This graduated reward system makes single bets particularly exciting, as there’s always the possibility of a larger payout even with a relatively conservative wager.

Double Bets

Double bets offer players the opportunity to predict that two dice will display the same number. For example, when placing a double bet on 3s, you’re hoping to see at least two 3s among the three dice rolled. 

These bets typically offer payouts between 8:1 and 11:1, depending on the casino. 

While less common than single number bets, doubles provide an appealing middle ground between conservative and aggressive betting strategies. The moderate probability of winning, combined with the satisfying payout ratio, makes double bets a popular choice for both newcomers and experienced players.

Triple Bets

Triple bets represent the most ambitious wagers in Sic Bo, available in two distinct varieties. 

The specific triple bet requires all three dice to show exactly the same number of your choosing. For instance, betting that all three dice will show 4s. This bet offers the highest payout in the game, typically ranging from 150:1 to 180:1, reflecting its rare occurrence. 

Alternatively, players can place an “any triple” bet, which wins when any three matching numbers appear, regardless of the specific number. This bet usually pays around 30:1, offering a more accessible way to win on triple outcomes while still maintaining significant profit potential.

The Risk-Reward Dynamic

Understanding the relationship between risk and potential reward is crucial when considering these betting options. 

Single number bets provide frequent, smaller wins and maintain steady engagement. Double bets strike a balance between win frequency and payout size, making them suitable for balanced betting strategies. Triple bets, while offering the most exciting potential returns, occur rarely enough that they should be approached with careful bankroll management. 

Experienced players often combine these different bet types to create a personalized betting strategy that aligns with their risk tolerance and playing style.

Combination Bets

Combination bets in Sic Bo present an opportunity for players who seek a strategic middle ground in their wagering approach. When placing a combination bet, you’re predicting that two specific numbers will appear among the three dice rolled, regardless of what shows on the third die. 

For instance, if you place a combination bet on 2 and 5, you’ll win if those numbers appear in any order, whether it’s two dice showing 2-5 with a 3 on the third die, or any other winning combination featuring your chosen numbers.

The payout structure for combination bets varies slightly between different casinos, with most casinos offering either 5:1 or 6:1 odds. This variation in payout ratios can significantly impact your long-term returns, making it worthwhile to seek out casinos offering the more favorable 6:1 ratio. 

With a winning probability of approximately 13.9%, combination bets occur frequently enough to maintain player engagement while still offering substantial rewards.

For intermediate players, combination bets serve as an excellent tool for bankroll management. The moderate house edge on these bets, combined with their reasonable hit frequency, allows players to extend their playing sessions while maintaining the excitement of potential big wins. 

Many experienced players incorporate combination bets into a broader betting strategy, perhaps coupling them with more conservative wagers like Big/Small bets to create a balanced approach to the game.

Other Betting Options

Sic Bo features several other betting options. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular ones.

Total Sum Bets

This is when you wager on the combined value of all three dice. These total bets range from a minimum sum of 4 (possible only with 1-1-2) to a maximum of 17 (achieved with 5-6-6 or 6-5-6). 

The payouts for total bets vary significantly based on probability, with the extreme totals offering the highest rewards. For instance, betting on a total of 4 or 17 typically pays between 50:1 and 60:1, because of their rare occurrence. 

Meanwhile, more common totals like 10 or 11 offer lower but still attractive payouts around 6:1. 

It’s important to understand the probability distribution of these totals. Sum bets on numbers in the middle range appear more frequently due to the multiple dice combinations that can produce them.

Domino Combinations

Domino bets in Sic Bo draw inspiration from the ancient game of dominoes, allowing players to wager on specific two-number combinations appearing among the three dice. These bets function similarly to standard combination bets but are often presented differently on the table layout, typically with visual representations reminiscent of domino tiles. 

The payout structure for domino bets generally ranges from 5:1 to 6:1, depending on the casino. 

Three-Dice Total Predictions

Perhaps the most challenging and potentially rewarding wager in Sic Bo is predicting the exact outcome of all three dice. This bet requires you to correctly guess not just the total sum but the specific numbers that will appear on each die. 

While the astronomical odds against winning this bet are reflected in premium payouts, it represents the pinnacle of risk in Sic Bo betting. Some casinos offer variations on this bet, such as allowing players to predict two out of three numbers correctly for a reduced payout.

Regional Variations and Side Bets

Different gaming jurisdictions and individual casinos often introduce their own unique twists to Sic Bo. Some establishments offer progressive jackpots tied to specific triple combinations, while others feature bonus payouts for hitting certain sequences of numbers. 

In Macau, for instance, some casinos offer special insurance bets that provide partial protection against certain losing combinations. Australian casinos sometimes incorporate elements from Chuck-a-luck into their Sic Bo games, creating hybrid betting options that aren’t found elsewhere.

While these exotic wagering options can add an extra layer of excitement to your Sic Bo experience, keep in mind that they often carry a higher house edge than traditional bets. 

Sic Bo Odds and Payouts

Calculating Odds

The mathematics behind Sic Bo is based on the fundamental principles of probability, with each roll of the three dice producing one of 216 possible combinations (6 x 6 x 6 = 216 total outcomes). This total serves as the denominator in all probability calculations for the game. 

By understanding these probabilities, you can make a more informed decision about your betting choices.

The Big and Small bets represent the highest probability wagers in Sic Bo, each with a 48.61% chance of winning. This percentage comes from counting the favorable outcomes: 

• for Small bets (totals 4-10), there are 105 winning combinations out of 216 possible outcomes, 
• for Big bets (totals 11-17) also have 105 winning combinations. 

However, it’s crucial to note that when any triple appears, both Big and Small bets lose, which explains why the probability isn’t exactly 50% despite the even-money payout.

Single number bets demonstrate how probability affects payouts in a tiered system:

• One die showing your number: 75 favorable outcomes out of 216 (34.72% probability)
• Two dice showing your number: 25 favorable outcomes out of 216 (11.57% probability)
• All three dice showing your number: 6 favorable outcomes out of 216 (2.78% probability)

The declining probability as more matching dice are required directly correlates to increasing payout ratios, maintaining the house edge across all betting options.

Specific triple bets with only one favorable outcome out of 216 possible combinations, carry a probability of just 0.46%. This explains the generous payout ratios of 150:1 to 180:1. 

When betting on any triple (all three dice showing the same number, regardless of which number), the probability increases to 2.78% (6 favorable outcomes out of 216), reflected in the lower but still substantial payout of 30:1.

House Edge Calculations in Sic Bo

The house edge for each bet type can be calculated using the following formula:

House Edge = (Probability of Winning × Payout) – Probability of Losing

For example, on a Big bet, which has a 48.61% probability and a 1:1 payout, the house edge would be:

(0.4861 × 1) – 0.5139 = -0.0278 or 2.78% house edge

 Understanding these probabilities doesn’t change the random nature of the game, but it does allow you to make more informed decisions about betting strategies and bankroll management.

Payout Structures

Sic Bo payouts vary widely depending on the bet type and casino. Here’s a typical payout structure:

• Small/Big: 1:1
• Single Number (on 1 die): 1:1
• Single Number (on 2 dice): 2:1
• Single Number (on 3 dice): 3:1
• Two-Number Combination: 5:1
• Specific Triple: 150:1 to 180:1
• Any Triple: 30:1

Online Sic Bo games may offer different payouts. Super Sic Bo and Mega Sic Bo versions include multipliers, potentially increasing payouts up to 1,000x.

The house edge in Sic Bo ranges from 2.78% on Small/Big bets to over 30% on some specific bets. Always check the payout table before playing to understand your potential returns.

Playing Sic Bo Online

Online casinos provide numerous options for enjoying this classic dice game from the comfort of your home.

Choosing an Online Casino for Sic Bo

The foundation of a positive online Sic Bo experience begins with selecting the right casino platform. Start by verifying the casino’s security, by looking at its licensing credentials and ensuring it uses advanced SSL encryption to protect your data and transactions.

The casino should also partner with recognized payment processors and offer multiple secure banking options, including credit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. Pay attention to withdrawal policies, processing times, and any associated fees.

And while welcome bonuses and reload promotions may seem attractive, examining the wagering requirements and game contribution rates is extremely important. Some casinos exclude Sic Bo from bonus wagering or apply higher playthrough requirements. So before making a deposit, verify whether promotional funds can be used on your preferred Sic Bo variants.

These checks are all done by us in our online casino reviews.

Online Sic Bo Variations

Online casinos often feature multiple Sic Bo variants. Traditional Sic Bo remains popular, but you’ll also find games with unique twists.

Some popular variations include Super Sic Bo, which adds multipliers to standard bets, and Progressive Sic Bo, offering additional chances for substantial wins through accumulated jackpots.

Game developers have introduced numerous technological enhancements to improve the player experience. Modern interfaces feature detailed betting histories, statistical tracking, and automated betting options. Some versions include quick-bet buttons for popular combinations and customizable table layouts to suit your preferences.

The Return to Player (RTP) percentages in online Sic Bo can vary significantly between providers and variants. Traditional versions typically maintain RTPs between 95% and 98%, but some online-specific variations may offer more favorable rates. Research the specific game’s RTP and house edge before committing to extended play.

Live Dealer Sic Bo

Live dealer Sic Bo represents the pinnacle of online dice gaming, bridging the gap between digital convenience and authentic casino atmosphere. These games stream from professional studios or real casinos, featuring trained dealers who manage physical equipment while interacting with online players.

The technical aspects of live Sic Bo deserve careful consideration. Multiple camera angles provide comprehensive views of the dice and table, while sophisticated optical character recognition (OCR) technology ensures accurate result recording. High-quality streams require stable internet connections, so assess your connectivity before engaging in live play.

The social dimension of live Sic Bo adds significant value to the gaming experience. Chat functions enable interaction with dealers and fellow players, creating a more engaging atmosphere. Many platforms offer multi-table play, allowing you to participate in several games simultaneously while maintaining social connections.

The betting interface in live Sic Bo merits special attention. Despite the physical dice rolls, all wagers are placed electronically through an intuitive overlay. 

Remember that live dealer games operate on a different rhythm than their digital counterparts. The pace is naturally slower, accommodating physical dice rolls and bet placement by multiple players. This measured pace can actually improve your gaming experience, since it allows more time for strategic thinking and social interaction.

Sic Bo Strategies for Better Play

Smart betting, careful bankroll management, and leveraging casino bonuses are key elements to consider, as part of your Sic Bo strategy.

Betting Strategies

Focus on bets with better odds to maximize your chances of winning. Small and big bets offer nearly 50% probability, making them safer options. Avoid the temptation of high-risk, high-reward bets like specific triple bets.

Combine different bet types to balance risk and potential payouts. For example, place a small bet alongside a more specific combination bet.

Be aware of the gambler’s fallacy. In other words keep in mind that past outcomes don’t influence future rolls. Each roll is independent, so don’t base your bets on previous results.

Consider using a progression betting system, but be cautious. When using a positive progression system in Sic Bo, players increase their bets following wins while keeping losses at the base betting unit. 

For example, a player might start with a $10 bet on Big/Small, then increase to $15 after a win, and $20 after a second consecutive win. This approach capitalizes on winning streaks while limiting exposure during losing sequences. However, it’s crucial to establish clear limits for progression. Many players set a maximum of three or four increases before returning to their base bet.

A more measured progression strategy involves increasing bets by smaller percentages rather than fixed units. For instance, increasing bets by 50% after wins instead of doubling them. The key is maintaining strict discipline in returning to your initial betting amount after any loss or after reaching your predetermined win target.

Bankroll Management

Successful betting strategies in Sic Bo depend heavily on proper bankroll management. Set aside a specific amount for your gaming session and divide it into betting units. A common approach is to make your base bet no more than 2-3% of your total bankroll. This ensures you have enough units to weather losing streaks while still having meaningful bets.

Maintaining detailed records of your Sic Bo sessions provides invaluable insights into your betting patterns and overall performance. Document essential information such as starting bankroll, bet types, amounts wagered, wins, losses, and session duration. This data helps identify which betting strategies work best for your playing style and reveals patterns in your decision-making process. 

Take regular breaks to assess your bankroll and overall performance. This prevents impulsive decisions and keeps you in control.

Playing With Bonuses

Taking advantage of casino bonuses to extend your playtime is a strategy in itself. Look for the most lucrative welcome bonuses, take note of their wagering requirements, game contributions, and time limits. As mentioned previously, some bonuses may not be applicable to Sic Bo or may have lower contribution rates.

Consider also casinos that have loyalty programs which offer points for Sic Bo games. These can be converted into bonus funds or other perks.

Use free play or demo modes to test strategies without risking real money. This is especially useful for trying new betting patterns or getting familiar with the game.

Frequently Asked Questions