A Complete Guide to Sic Bo: From Rules to Winning Tips

Playing Sic Bo: What You’ll Learn

  • Understanding the Game: Sic Bo is a simple yet exciting dice game of luck played with three dice, originating from China. It is also known by names such as Dai Siu, Tai Sai, and Hi-Lo, and is popular in Asian casinos, particularly in Macau.

  • How to Play: The gameplay involves placing bets on specific outcomes of the dice rolls. Players place their chips on the appropriate areas of the Sic Bo table, and after the dealer shakes the dice (or the online software simulates a roll), players win or lose based on their predictions.

  • Diverse Betting Options: Sic Bo offers a wide range of betting options, from low-risk wagers to high-risk bets. These include betting on specific numbers, combinations, or the total sum of the three dice, providing players with various strategies and potential payouts.

  • Strategies for All Levels: The article details strategies suitable for players at different experience levels. Beginners can start with safer bets, while intermediate and expert players can explore riskier bets like single-number combinations for higher payouts.

  • Playing Online: With the rise of online casinos, Sic Bo is now accessible to players worldwide. The online format simplifies gameplay and allows players to enjoy the game from the comfort of their homes, with various versions available for different regional preferences.

Sic Bo is an ancient Chinese gambling game of chance played with THREE Dice, which has now become increasingly popular in casinos worldwide.

This dice game offers a unique blend of simple gameplay and complex combination bets, making it both exciting and challenging for players of all experience levels.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything from basic rules to advanced strategies, and help you understand why this table game deserves your attention.

What is Sic Bo?

Sic Bo (pronounced “See Bo”) literally means “Precious Dice” or “Dice Pair” in Chinese. Despite its name suggesting two dice, this Chinese dice game is actually played with THREE Dice.

It’s similar to craps in some ways, but offers many unique betting combinations and potential payouts that make it distinctly different from other casino games.

Image Credit: Krisnayuda/Shutterstock

Why Play Sic Bo?

Sic Bo offers several advantages that make it a fun alternative to common casino games like Craps:

  • Simple to learn
  • Fast-paced gameplay
  • Multiple betting options
  • Social atmosphere

The History of Sic Bo

Originally played in ancient China, Sic Bo made its way to the Western world in the early 20th century, primarily through Chinese immigrants.

The game gained significant popularity in Macau casinos, and by the 1970s, it had become a staple in many Las Vegas casinos. Today, both traditional and electronic versions of the game can be found in casinos worldwide.

What do I Need to Play Sic Bo?

Unlike Craps, which uses just Two Dice, Sic Bo requires:

  • THREE standard six-sided dice
  • A Sic Bo table with a specialized layout
  • An electronic “Dice Shaker” in modern casinos
  • Betting chips

What is the Objective of Sic Bo?

The main goal in Sic Bo is to correctly predict the outcome of a roll of the three dice. Players can bet on various combinations, including:

  • The total of all three dice
  • Specific numbers appearing
  • Combinations of numbers
  • Various other proposition bets

What are the Rules of Sic Bo?

Unlike Craps, where players throw the dice themselves, in Sic Bo:

  • The dealer (or electronic shaker) rolls all three dice
  • Players must place their bets BEFORE the roll
  • Multiple bets can be placed on a single roll
  • All bets are resolved after each roll
  • No progressive betting is involved

How Does Sic Bo Differ from Craps?

While both are dice games, there are several key differences:

1. Number of Dice

  • Craps uses TWO dice
  • Sic Bo uses THREE dice

2. Player Involvement

  • In Craps, players roll the dice
  • In Sic Bo, only the dealer rolls

3. Betting Options

4. Table Layout

Image Credit: MilletStudio/Shutterstock

What are the Types of Bets in Sic Bo?

Sic Bo offers numerous betting options, each with their own house edge and potential payouts. Here are the main categories:

Small and Big Bets

  • SMALL: Betting that the total of all three dice will be 4-10
  • BIG: Betting that the total will be 11-17
  • Both pay EVEN MONEY (1:1)
  • House Edge is about 2.78%
  • Note: Any Triple (three of same number) LOSES these bets

Single Number Bets

  • Betting that a specific number (1-6) will appear
  • Pays based on frequency:
    1. One die shows number: 1:1
    2. Two dice show number: 2:1
    3. Three dice show number: 3:1
  • House Edge varies from 7.87% to 15.28%

Double Bets

  • Betting that two dice will show the same number
  • Pays 8:1 to 11:1 depending on the casino
  • House Edge about 18.52%

Triple Bets

  • Betting ALL THREE dice will show same number
  • Any Triple (any three of a kind): pays 24:1 to 31:1
  • Specific Triple (specified three of a kind): pays 150:1 to 180:1
  • House Edge varies from 11.57% to 16.20%

Combination Bets

  • Betting on specific two-number combinations
  • Pays 5:1 to 6:1
  • House Edge about 2.78%

Total Sum Bets

  • Betting on the total of all three dice
  • Payouts vary by total:
  1. 4 or 17: pays 50:1 to 62:1
  2. 5 or 16: pays 18:1 to 31:1
  3. 6 or 15: pays 14:1 to 18:1
  4. 7 or 14: pays 12:1 to 14:1
  5. 8 or 13: pays 8:1 to 12:1
  6. 9, 10, 11, or 12: pays 6:1 to 8:1
  • House Edge varies from 7.41% to 15.28%

What are the Best Bets in Sic Bo?

Big/Small bets (2.78% house edge)

  • Combination bets (2.78% house edge)
  • Single Number bets (7.87% house edge)

AVOID these high house edge bets:

  • Specific Triple bets (16.20% house edge)
  • Double bets (18.52% house edge)

Image Credit: Saran_Poroong/Shutterstock

Basic Sic Bo Strategy

Unlike Craps, where specific betting progressions can help reduce the house edge, Sic Bo is purely a game of chance. However, here are some strategies to help manage your bankroll and maximize your chances:

1. Start with Small/Big Bets

  • These offer the LOWEST house edge (2.78%)
  • Provide nearly 50/50 chances
  • Good for learning the game
  • Best for bankroll management

2. Understand the Combinations

  • THREE dice means more combinations
  • Total possible combinations: 216
  • Each number appears differently:
  1. Total of 4:3 ways
  2. Total of10:27ways
  3. Specific Triple 1:1 way
  4. Any Triple: 6 ways

3. Manage Your Money

Advanced Sic Bo Strategies

For more experienced players, consider these approaches:

Combination Betting Strategy

  • Place Small/Big bet as main wager
  • Add ONE combination bet
  • Keep total risk under 5% of bankroll
  • Reset after three consecutive losses

Total-Sum Strategy

  • Focus on middle totals (8-13)
  • Better odds than extreme totals
  • Lower payouts but more frequent wins
  • Combine with Small/Big bets

Progressive Betting in Sic Bo

While some players use progressive betting systems, these DON’T change the house edge:

Positive Progression

  • Increase bets after wins
  • Decrease after losses
  • Can maximize winning streaks
  • BUT doesn’t affect overall odds

Negative Progression

  • Increase bets after losses
  • Decrease after wins
  • Can lead to huge losses
  • NOT recommended

Is Sic Bo Rigged?

In licensed casinos, Sic Bo is NOT rigged. Like all casino games, it has a built-in house edge, but:

  • Dice combinations are truly random
  • Electronic shakers are regularly tested
  • Game is monitored by gaming authorities
  • Results are mathematically verified

Image Credit: Momentumz/Shutterstock

Playing Sic Bo Online

Many online casinos now offer Sic Bo in various formats:

Live Dealer Sic Bo

  • Real dealers via video stream
  • Actual dice and equipment
  • Interactive chat features
  • Most authentic experience

RNG (Random Number Generator) Sic Bo

  • Computer-generated results
  • Faster gameplay
  • Lower minimum bets
  • Available 24/7

Mobile Sic Bo

  • Play on smartphones/tablets
  • Optimized interfaces
  • Same odds as desktop
  • Convenient access

Important Safety Tips for Online Sic Bo

1. Choose Licensed Casinos

  • Verify gaming licenses
  • Check regulatory compliance
  • Read player reviews
  • Confirm payment security

2. Understand Game Variations

  • Check house edge rates
  • Verify payout tables
  • Note minimum bets
  • Review specific rules

3. Use Casino Bonuses Wisely

  • Read casino bonus terms and conditions
  • Note wagering requirements
  • Check game contributions
  • Understand time limits

Winning at Sic Bo

While no strategy guarantees winning, here’s how to maximize your chances:

  1. Focus on Best Odds

2. Practice Good Bankroll Management

  • Set session limits
  • Use stop-loss points
  • Define win goals
  • Never bet scared money

3. Stay Disciplined

  • Don’t chase losses
  • Avoid emotional betting
  • Take regular breaks
  • Keep detailed records

Image Credit: Martin of Sweden/Shutterstock

Final Tips for Success

1. Learn the Layout

  • Study bet positions
  • Memorize key combinations
  • Understand payouts
  • Practice with free games

2. Start Small

  • Begin with minimal bets
  • Learn game flow
  • Build confidence
  • Develop strategy

3. Track Results

  • Note winning combinations
  • Monitor losses
  • Record session lengths
  • Review performance

Remember: Sic Bo is primarily a game of chance. No strategy can overcome the house edge, but smart play can help you enjoy the game longer and maximize your winning opportunities. The key is to understand the odds, manage your bankroll wisely, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.

Whether you’re playing in a traditional casino or online, Sic Bo offers an exciting alternative to other table games. Its unique combination of simple rules and complex betting options makes it appealing to both novice and experienced players.

Just remember to stick to the basic bets until you’re comfortable with the game’s nuances, and always play responsibly.

With these guidelines, you’re now ready to try your luck at Sic Bo. Remember that practice makes perfect, and the more you play, the better you’ll understand the subtle strategies that can help you make the most of your gaming experience.

And now you know!

So until next time – Best of Luck to all!

Title Image Credit: Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock