This blog was originally written on May 29th, 2020, and updated on February 7th, 2025.
The History of Sic Bo
Originating in ancient China in the early 20th century, Sic Bo participants play the game using stones or tiles. As it evolved, the addition of dice made it more appealing. After gaining fame in Asia, Sic Bo entered Western casinos. Today, players can enjoy this game in physical and online casinos, with exciting variations.
How to Play Sic Bo
Sic Bo is a simple yet fast-paced game to play. To find out how it works, follow these steps:
Step 1: Place bets. Players bet on various outcomes, including total sums, single numbers, and combinations.
Step 2: Roll the dice. The dealer or automated system (for online games) shakes a container with three dice.
Step 3: Await the result. The dice land on a result, and the game pays out winning bets according to its payout structure.
Step 4: Repeat the process. Players place new bets for the next round, and the cycle continues.
Sic Bo Betting Options and Their Payouts
Sic Bo has various betting options with different risk levels and payouts. Understanding these bets can help you make smarter bets.
Small and Big Bets
Predict whether the total will be between 4-10 (Small) or 11-17 (Big), excluding triples (pays 1:1). These bets have nearly a 50% chance of winning, making them ideal for beginners.
Specific Triples and Doubles
This option is when betting three dice will show the same number (Triple), or at least two will match (Double). Triple bets can pay up to 150:1, but their odds are low (0.46%).
Total Sum Bets
Wagering on a specific total sum (e.g., 9 or 12). Payouts vary based on probability, with totals closer to the middle (e.g., 10 or 11) having lower payouts than more extreme totals like 4 or 17.
Combination Bets
Betting that any two specific numbers will appear (pays 5:1). These have a higher chance of winning than triple bets.
Single Number Bets
Betting on a specific number appearing once, twice, or all three times. If it appears on one die, it pays 1:1; two dice, 2:1; and three dice, 3:1.
Sic Bo Table Layout
The Sic Bo table might seem confusing, but it is easy to use. The marked betting sections show various wager options and their respective payouts. Players place their chips in the corresponding areas, and the dealer announces the results. The layout becomes even simpler in online versions of Sic Bo, with clear betting areas, automated payouts, and interactive features that enhance the playing experience.
Sic Bo Probability and House Edge
Understanding the probability and house edge of different bets helps players make informed decisions about their wagers. Below are the main bet types and their associated probabilities and house edges.
Big and small bets
Big and small bets have a probability of 48.61%, meaning they are the safest bets in Sic Bo. Due to the absence of triples, the house edge is 2.78%. This type of bet is ideal for conservative players who prefer consistent payouts over high-risk wagers.
Triple bets
Triple bets have the lowest probability of winning, at just 0.46%. Because you must correctly predict that all three dice will land on the same number, the house edge is significantly high at 16.20%. While the high payout of up to 150:1 is hard to resist, these bets are ideal for players who enjoy high-volatility games.
Combination bets
This type of bet requires two specific numbers to appear on the three dice with a probability of 13.9%. Combination bets balance risk and reward well, with a house edge of 2.77%. These bets are ideal for players looking for slightly higher payouts without taking on excessive risk.
Total sum bets
Total sum bets have varying probabilities and house edges depending on the chosen number. Totals closer to the middle range (e.g., 10 or 11) occur more frequently than extreme totals like 4 or 17. For example:
- Betting on a total of 10 or 11 has a probability of around 12.5% with a moderate house edge.
- Betting on a total of 4 or 17 has a much lower probability (1.39%) but offers the highest payouts.
Single number bets
The probability of placing a bet on a number appearing on one, two, or all three dice is as follows:
- One die: 34.72% (pays 1:1)
- Two dice: 6.94% (pays 2:1)
- Three dice: 0.46% (pays 3:1)
Due to their moderate house edge, these bets are perfect for players who prefer straightforward betting choices with frequent wins.
Sic Bo Strategies
Sic Bo is a game of chance, meaning there is no sure Sic Bo winning formula. However, some betting strategies can help increase your winning odds.
Choose low-risk bets
The odds of winning are higher for big and small bets (48.61%), but the payouts are smaller (1:1). These offer steady outcomes over time and are ideal for beginners. With a house edge of about 2.78%, these bets are among the safest options in Sic Bo.
Avoid high-risk bets
Triple bets have extremely low odds (0.46%) but a significant payoff (150:1 or more). Although they may seem enticing, using them can be risky, so you should use them rarely or preferably not.
Spread your bets
One way to balance risk with reward is to place many bets on multiple results. For instance, you can raise your odds of at least one winning bet by combining a small bet with a double bet on a particular number.
Look for multipliers
When playing Super Sic Bo, search for random multipliers that can increase your wins far beyond the usual payouts. Super Sic Bo is an excellent alternative to classic Sic Bo because some varieties provide multipliers of up to 1,000x on particular bets.
Manage your bankroll
Set and stick to your budget, which is vital for every casino game, including Sic Bo. Avoid chasing losses and limit your earnings before you cash out when you’re on a winning streak.
Sic Bo Variants
Many players enjoy the classic version of Sic Bo, but several variations offer unique twists. Here are some popular examples:
Super Sic Bo
Super Sic Bo adds a modern twist to the traditional Sic Bo with its random multipliers. These multipliers can boost payouts, sometimes reaching up to a whopping 1,000x. This variant is ideal for players who enjoy the excitement of high-risk, high-reward games and the unpredictability of their random multipliers.
Sic Bo Dragons
Sic Bo Dragons is a themed variation of Sic Bo that adds extra betting options and features unique animations. While the core gameplay remains the same, the dragon-themed design and additional side bets set it apart. Because of its stunning graphics, this is perfect for those looking for an immersive gaming experience.
Grand Hazard
Grand Hazard is a European variation of Sic Bo that uses three dice but follows slightly different payout rules. Unlike the standard Sic Bo game, players often roll the dice down a chute to make the game more visually appealing. Those who enjoy a blend of tradition and spectacle in their gaming experience will enjoy this game.
Chuck-a-Luck
Chuck-a-Luck is an American-style dice game derived from the traditional Sic Bo game. Instead of a dice shaker, it rolls the dice with a spinning wire cage. Due to its straightforward betting structure, Chuck-a-Luck is an excellent choice for newcomers who want an easy introduction to dice-based games.
Where to Play Sic Bo Online
Many reputable platforms offer different game versions for those looking to play Sic Bo online. At Bspin.io, you can explore various options and check out other exciting casino games at Bitcoin Tables.
Sic Bo vs. Other Casino Games
Sic Bo is frequently compared to Baccarat, Craps, and Roulette because of its betting structure and chances. However, this casino game differs in several ways, and here are some of them:
Sic Bo vs. Roulette
Even though Sic Bo and roulette require placing bets on random outcomes, roulette substitutes a wheel and ball for dice. It also offers more betting alternatives, whereas roulette features a set of preset bets. It could make an exciting substitute if you like roulette. Find out more about playing roulette in this guide.
Sic Bo vs. Baccarat
In contrast to Sic Bo’s varied betting table, Baccarat is a card-based game where players bet on the banker’s or player’s hand. If you prefer a variety of betting possibilities, then Sic Bo is a better choice. However, if you like to try Baccarat, read this article.
Sic Bo vs. Craps
Although there are several roll sequences, player participation, and more complex rules, craps also use dice like Sic Bo. In Sic Bo, each roll occurs independently, making the game more straightforward. If you prefer a more challenging casino game, check out this blog to learn about the different strategies for Craps.
In Summary
Sic Bo is a well-loved casino game that combines chance and strategy betting. Its quick gameplay and wide range of betting options set it apart from other casino games like Baccarat, Craps, and Roulette. Knowing how to play Sic Bo and using different betting strategies may increase your chances of winning, regardless of your preference for low-risk or high-stakes games.