Sic Bo Rules and Odds: A Complete Guide to the Ancient Chinese Dice Game
Sic Bo, meaning "precious dice" in Chinese, is one of the oldest gambling games still played in casinos today. Dating back over 2,000 years to ancient China, this three-dice game has evolved from street corners in provincial villages to the glittering floors of Macau's mega-casinos and live dealer studios worldwide. While the game appears complex with its elaborate betting layout featuring over 50 different wagering options, understanding the underlying mathematics reveals a straightforward game of pure chance.
According to the American Gaming Association, Asian table games including Sic Bo have seen significant growth in Western casinos, particularly in markets catering to diverse gaming preferences. The game's appeal lies in its simplicity of play combined with the variety of betting options, each with distinct probabilities and payouts. This comprehensive guide examines every aspect of Sic Bo, from basic rules to advanced probability analysis.
Understanding Sic Bo Basics
Sic Bo uses three standard six-sided dice, shaken in a sealed container or electronic shaker. Players place bets on predicted outcomes before the dice are revealed. Unlike craps, which uses two dice and involves multiple roll resolution, every Sic Bo bet is resolved in a single shake. This makes the game faster-paced and easier to understand.
The Mathematics of Three Dice
With three dice, each showing values 1-6, there are exactly 216 possible combinations (6 x 6 x 6 = 216). This forms the foundation for all probability calculations in Sic Bo. The possible totals range from 3 (1+1+1) to 18 (6+6+6), with certain totals occurring more frequently than others due to the number of combinations that produce them.
Total Probability Distribution
The total of 10 and 11 are the most common outcomes, each occurring 27 times out of 216 rolls (12.5%). The rarest outcomes are 3 and 18, which can only occur through triples (1-1-1 or 6-6-6), happening just once per 216 rolls (0.46%).
Game Procedure
The standard Sic Bo procedure follows these steps:
- Betting Phase: Players place chips on desired bet positions on the layout
- Dice Shake: The dealer activates the electronic shaker or manually shakes a sealed container
- Reveal: The container opens to display the three dice results
- Settlement: Winning bets light up on electronic tables; dealer collects losses and pays winners
According to the UK Gambling Commission, licensed Sic Bo games must use certified random equipment, whether electronic shakers with RNG components or properly weighted physical dice in sealed containers. This ensures each outcome has equal probability as specified by the mathematics.
Complete Sic Bo Total Probabilities
Understanding how often each total appears is crucial for evaluating Sic Bo bets. The following table shows every possible total with its exact probability:
| Total | Combinations | Probability | Typical Payout | House Edge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 1 | 0.46% | 150:1 or 180:1 | 30.09% / 16.20% |
| 4 | 3 | 1.39% | 60:1 | 15.28% |
| 5 | 6 | 2.78% | 30:1 | 13.89% |
| 6 | 10 | 4.63% | 17:1 | 16.67% |
| 7 | 15 | 6.94% | 12:1 | 9.72% |
| 8 | 21 | 9.72% | 8:1 | 12.50% |
| 9 | 25 | 11.57% | 6:1 | 18.98% |
| 10 | 27 | 12.50% | 6:1 | 12.50% |
| 11 | 27 | 12.50% | 6:1 | 12.50% |
| 12 | 25 | 11.57% | 6:1 | 18.98% |
| 13 | 21 | 9.72% | 8:1 | 12.50% |
| 14 | 15 | 6.94% | 12:1 | 9.72% |
| 15 | 10 | 4.63% | 17:1 | 16.67% |
| 16 | 6 | 2.78% | 30:1 | 13.89% |
| 17 | 3 | 1.39% | 60:1 | 15.28% |
| 18 | 1 | 0.46% | 150:1 or 180:1 | 30.09% / 16.20% |
Notice the symmetry: totals 3 and 18, 4 and 17, 5 and 16, etc., have identical probabilities. The distribution forms a bell curve with 10 and 11 at the peak. This understanding directly informs which expected value each bet offers.
All Sic Bo Bet Types Explained
Sic Bo offers an extensive array of betting options, each with distinct probabilities and payouts. We'll examine each category from lowest to highest house edge.
Big and Small Bets (Best Odds)
These are the mathematically optimal bets in Sic Bo, analogous to the even-money bets in roulette or the Pass Line in craps.
Small (Xiao)
Wins when total is 4-10, excluding any triple
Big (Da)
Wins when total is 11-17, excluding any triple
Why Triples Cause the Loss
Small covers totals 4-10, and Big covers 11-17. Without the triple exclusion, these bets would win 105/216 times each (48.61%), with the house edge coming from 3 (1 combination) and 18 (1 combination) totaling only 4 outcomes. However, triples within the Small range (1-1-1, 2-2-2, 3-3-3 totaling 3, 6, 9) and Big range (4-4-4, 5-5-5, 6-6-6 totaling 12, 15, 18) are excluded, removing 3 winning combinations from each. This creates the 2.78% edge.
Odd and Even Bets
Similar to Big/Small, these bets offer near-even odds:
Odd
Wins when total is odd (3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17), excluding triples
Even
Wins when total is even (4,6,8,10,12,14,16,18), excluding triples
Two-Dice Combination Bets
These bets win when two specific different numbers appear on any two of the three dice. There are 15 possible combinations (1-2, 1-3, 1-4, 1-5, 1-6, 2-3, 2-4, 2-5, 2-6, 3-4, 3-5, 3-6, 4-5, 4-6, 5-6).
Any Two-Dice Combo (e.g., 1-2)
Wins when both specified numbers appear on the dice
The house edge varies dramatically based on payout. At 5:1 (common in many casinos), the edge is 16.67%. At 6:1 (found in some Macau and online casinos), the edge drops to just 2.78%, matching the Big/Small bets. Always check the pay table.
Single Number Bets
Bet on a single number (1-6) appearing on any of the three dice. Payouts increase if the number appears on multiple dice:
Single Number Appears
Wins based on how many dice show the chosen number
The probability breakdown: number appears once on 34.72% of rolls, twice on 6.94%, and as a triple on 0.46%. With standard payouts (1:1, 2:1, 3:1 for triple), the house edge is 7.87%. Some casinos pay 12:1 for triples on this bet, reducing the edge to 3.70%.
Double Bets
Bets on specific or any double (pair) appearing among the three dice:
Specific Double (e.g., 1-1)
Wins when at least two dice show the specified number
Any Double (Domino)
Wins when any pair appears (but not triple)
Triple Bets (Highest Risk)
Triple bets offer the largest payouts but also the highest house edges:
Specific Triple (e.g., 1-1-1)
Wins only when all three dice show the specified number
Any Triple
Wins when any triple appears (1-1-1 through 6-6-6)
These bets exemplify the risk-reward tradeoff discussed in our guide to side bets in table games. The allure of 150:1 or 180:1 payouts masks the reality that you'll lose roughly one-third of your money to the house on average.
House Edge Comparison: Best to Worst Bets
The following table ranks all Sic Bo bets by house edge, helping you identify optimal and suboptimal wagers. As we explain in our house edge calculator guide, lower edges mean better value for players over time.
| Bet Type | Payout | Win Probability | House Edge | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small/Big | 1:1 | 48.61% | 2.78% | Best |
| Odd/Even | 1:1 | 48.61% | 2.78% | Best |
| Two-Dice Combo (6:1) | 6:1 | 13.89% | 2.78% | Best |
| Single Number (12:1 triple) | 1:1/2:1/12:1 | 42.13% | 3.70% | Good |
| Single Number (3:1 triple) | 1:1/2:1/3:1 | 42.13% | 7.87% | Fair |
| Total 7 or 14 | 12:1 | 6.94% | 9.72% | Fair |
| Total 8 or 13 | 8:1 | 9.72% | 12.50% | Poor |
| Any Triple (30:1) | 30:1 | 2.78% | 13.89% | Poor |
| Two-Dice Combo (5:1) | 5:1 | 13.89% | 16.67% | Poor |
| Specific Double (10:1) | 10:1 | 7.41% | 18.52% | Avoid |
| Any Triple (24:1) | 24:1 | 2.78% | 30.56% | Avoid |
| Specific Triple (150:1) | 150:1 | 0.46% | 30.09% | Avoid |
| Specific Double (8:1) | 8:1 | 7.41% | 33.33% | Worst |
The variation in payouts between casinos dramatically affects house edge. A specific triple at 180:1 has a 16.20% edge, while the same bet at 150:1 jumps to 30.09%. Always verify the pay table before playing.
Sic Bo vs. Other Dice Games
How does Sic Bo compare to other dice-based casino games? Understanding these comparisons helps players make informed game selections.
While Sic Bo's best bets are respectable at 2.78%, craps offers better odds for knowledgeable players. Craps Pass/Don't Pass with odds bets can reduce the effective house edge below 1%. However, Sic Bo's simpler format appeals to players who find craps intimidating.
History and Cultural Significance
Sic Bo's origins trace back over 2,000 years to ancient China, where it was known as "Tai Sai" (precious dice) or "Dai Siu" (big small). According to gaming historians referenced by Britannica, the game likely evolved from divination practices using numbered tiles or animal bones.
Chinese immigrants brought Sic Bo to the Americas in the 19th century, where it was played in Chinatown gambling halls. The game gained mainstream casino acceptance in the 1990s when it was introduced to Las Vegas casinos. Today, Sic Bo is particularly popular in Macau, where it competes with baccarat as a staple table game, and in online live dealer formats.
Online vs. Land-Based Sic Bo
Modern Sic Bo is available in multiple formats, each with distinct characteristics:
RNG Sic Bo
Computer-generated outcomes using random number generators. As explained in our article on casino game fairness, reputable online casinos use certified RNGs tested by independent laboratories like eCOGRA or iTech Labs. These games run faster but lack the physical dice experience.
Live Dealer Sic Bo
Physical dice shaken in real-time via video stream. Live dealer versions offer the authenticity of land-based play with online convenience. Electronic shakers ensure tamper-proof results while maintaining visual appeal.
Land-Based Sic Bo
Traditional table games found primarily in Asian-focused casino markets. Macau casinos offer extensive Sic Bo options, while Western casinos may have limited availability. Land-based games typically operate at slower speeds, extending bankroll longevity.
Common Sic Bo Misconceptions
Like all casino games, Sic Bo attracts numerous myths and misconceptions that we address in our article on common gambling fallacies:
Myths to Avoid
- "Hot" and "cold" numbers exist: Each roll is completely independent. Previous results have zero effect on future outcomes.
- Betting systems work: No pattern of bets can overcome the mathematical house edge. As we explain in our betting systems analysis, progressive systems like Martingale fail in all negative expectation games.
- Dealers can influence dice: Modern casinos use sealed electronic shakers or transparent containers that make manipulation impossible.
- Combining bets improves odds: Placing multiple bets simultaneously doesn't change individual or collective house edges. Each bet is mathematically independent.
- Certain dice are "due": The gambler's fallacy. A triple not appearing for 100 rolls doesn't make it more likely on roll 101.
Optimal Sic Bo Strategy
Since Sic Bo offers no player decisions affecting outcomes, "strategy" consists entirely of bet selection. The mathematically optimal approach is straightforward:
Recommended Practices
- Stick to Big, Small, Odd, or Even bets (2.78% edge)
- If available, use Two-Dice Combinations at 6:1 payout (2.78% edge)
- Set strict loss limits before playing
- Check pay tables before playing; variations significantly affect edge
- Consider Single Number bets only if triple pays 12:1 (3.70% edge)
- Understand that all outcomes are random and independent
Practices to Avoid
- Never bet on Specific Triples (16-30% edge)
- Avoid Any Triple at 24:1 (30.56% edge)
- Avoid Specific Doubles at 8:1 (33.33% edge)
- Don't chase losses with high-payout bets
- Never bet money you cannot afford to lose
- Don't believe in patterns or "due" outcomes
Bankroll Considerations
Proper bankroll management applies to Sic Bo as it does to all casino games. With Big/Small bets offering near-50% win probability, the variance is relatively low compared to higher-payout bets.
Session Planning Example
Playing Big/Small at $10 per bet with a 2.78% house edge, your expected loss is $0.28 per roll. At 60 rolls per hour, expect to lose approximately $17 per hour on average. A $200 bankroll should sustain 3-4 hours of play under normal variance. Use our session planner calculator for personalized estimates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bet in Sic Bo?
The Small and Big bets offer the lowest house edge at 2.78%. These even-money bets win when the total is 4-10 (Small) or 11-17 (Big), excluding triples. With nearly 49% win probability, they provide the best long-term value in the game.
What is the house edge on Sic Bo Triple bets?
Specific Triple bets have house edges ranging from 16.20% (at 180:1 payout) to 30.09% (at 150:1 payout). Any Triple bets carry edges of 13.89% to 30.56% depending on payout. These are among the worst bets in any casino game.
How many different bets are there in Sic Bo?
Sic Bo offers over 50 different betting options including Big/Small (2), Odd/Even (2), Specific Totals (14), Single Number (6), Doubles (12), Triples (7), Two-Dice Combinations (15), and various other specialty bets depending on the casino.
Is Sic Bo better than Craps?
Mathematically, no. Craps Pass Line (1.41% edge) and Don't Pass (1.36% edge) beat Sic Bo's best bets (2.78% edge). However, Sic Bo is simpler to learn with single-roll resolution. Choice depends on whether you value better odds (craps) or simplicity (Sic Bo).
Can you count outcomes in Sic Bo?
No. Unlike card games, dice have no memory. Each roll is completely independent with identical probabilities. Modern electronic shakers or sealed containers make physical prediction impossible. Every combination has exactly 1/216 probability every single roll.
Why do Sic Bo payouts vary between casinos?
Different jurisdictions and casinos set their own pay tables. Macau typically offers better payouts than Las Vegas. The same Specific Triple bet might pay 150:1 in Vegas (30.09% edge) or 180:1 in Macau (16.20% edge). Always check the pay table before playing.
Is online Sic Bo fair?
Licensed online casinos use certified Random Number Generators tested by independent laboratories like eCOGRA and iTech Labs. Live dealer games use physical dice in sealed electronic shakers. Both formats produce mathematically fair results when properly regulated.
Conclusion: Understanding Sic Bo Mathematics
Sic Bo offers an engaging dice game experience with simple rules but complex betting options. The key to informed play is understanding that not all bets are created equal. While the eye-catching 180:1 payouts on triples seem exciting, they carry house edges exceeding 16%, compared to just 2.78% on Big/Small bets.
The optimal approach is clear: stick to Big, Small, Odd, Even, or (where available) 6:1 Two-Dice Combinations. These bets offer reasonable entertainment value with house edges comparable to roulette's even-money bets. Understanding these mathematics allows you to enjoy Sic Bo for what it is, a game of pure chance with fair odds when played correctly.
Remember that all gambling carries inherent risk. The house always maintains an edge, and no betting pattern or system can overcome mathematical reality. Play responsibly, set firm limits, and treat any gambling session as entertainment expense rather than income opportunity.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute gambling advice. Sic Bo is a negative expectation game; the house always maintains a mathematical advantage. All gambling carries risk of financial loss. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose. If gambling is affecting your life negatively, please visit our responsible gambling resources, BeGambleAware, or contact the National Council on Problem Gambling for help.