How to play Sic Bo  

Sic Bo, also known to some as tai sai, dai siu, and big or small, is an ancient Chinese game of chance, just like slots and bingo are. This game dates all the way back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD) of China, and originally, it was played with a small brick with symbols etched on the side.  

Today, it is played with dice and with virtual dice at online casinos, but the game’s premise hasn’t changed much. Here’s our guide on playing Sic Bo.  

A Brief Guide To An Ancient Chinese Game 

Sic Bo was brought to the Western world by the Chinese immigrants to America in the early 20th century. Now, this game of luck is embraced worldwide, even producing some regional variations – it is played with two dice in the Philippines, and it’s called tai sai in Australia. There are also many online variations, such as Mega Sic Bo. 

The Step By Step Guide For Playing Sic Bo 

Now that you know more about its history, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to play Sic Bo games. 

1. Choose your table or game variation: Each table has its own intricacies. At some, you can try to predict the sum of the dice (Big or Small), or even a specific number on one, two, or three dice.  

2. Buy the chips: Exchange the amount of money you’re comfortable with for the chips. Each table has a chip placement area where you should place them.  

3. Place the bet: There are various strategies for placing the bets. Some of the safest bets are even-money bets, such as high/low or odds/even. Of course, there are no guaranteed wins! 

4. Roll the dice: After all the players place the bets, the dice are shaken and rolled.  

5. Note the outcome: If the results match your bet, you win. Payouts vary based on the bets made.  

After the winnings are distributed, a new round starts, and you can start placing your bets all over again. Note that knowing when to stop your playing session and walk away from the table is as important as knowing the game’s rules, if not more.   

How to bet on Sic Bo? 

Every game of Sic Bo is random, but knowing how to bet can make your playing experience more interesting. When it comes to strategising, the most important tip is to start with small bets and not deplete your bankroll immediately. Also, if you aren’t following a specific betting strategy, it’s better to vary your bets until you get the feel of the game. As always, avoid chasing losses and enjoy gambling for what it is – just another form of entertainment. 

Sic Bo Betting Options 

There are many different Sic Bo betting options, some more complex and riskier than others. Each bet has a different payout. Here are some of the most popular bets: 

• Big or Small 
• Single Dice Bets 

• Triples Bets 
• Two Dice Combination Bets 
• Specific Sum Bets 
• Odd/Even Bets 
• Four Number Combination Bets 
• Three Single Number Combo Bets 
• Double & Single Numbers Bets 

Single Dice Bets in Sic Bo 

Single dice bets in Sic Bo are one of the most intuitive ways of approaching the table. In its essence, it is betting whether a certain number (1-6) will appear on one, two, or all three dice. Since these bets have a relatively higher probability of winning, they offer lower payouts than other types of bets.   

Single dice bets on one die: 

• Payout: 1:1 
• Probability: 34.72% 

Single dice bets on two dice: 

• Payout: 2:1 
• Probability: 6.94% 

Single dice bets on three dice: 

• Payout: 3:1 
• Probability: 0.46% 

Two Dice Combination Bets 

This is betting on whether a specific combination of numbers will appear on the dice. They offer higher payouts than single-dice bets, but the probability of winning is lower. 

• Payout: 5:1 
• Probability: 11.11% 

Here are some examples of the two dice combination bets in Sic Bo: 

• Double – Betting that any two dice will show the same number 
• Double any pair – Any two dice show a pair of numbers but not the same number 
• Triple any number – Any three dice show the same number but not a specific number. 

Triple bets, Pair bets, Big bets, and Small bets 

Every one of these bets has a different risk factor and a payout potential.  

Triple bets are high stakes. You’re betting that all three dice will land on the same number. The odds are slim at 0.46%, but the payouts range from 180:1 to 240:1, which is huge. 

Pair bets, or double bets, on the other hand, are a tad less risky than triple bets, with a 7.4% chance of winning and payouts between 10:1 and 18:1.  

Big and Small bets are simpler. You bet on the total sum of the dice. If you settle for a sum between 4 and 10, then you bet on Small. When you bet on the numbers from 11 to 17, these are Big bets. Players who prefer even-money bets often go this route. 

The best bet for you depends on your appetite for risk, with hungrier players preferring Triple bets, while those who are more conservative go for Big or Small. However, remember that there’s no bet that is risk-free. 

Three Single Number Combination 

In Sic Bo, the Three Single Number Combination is an adventurous option in which you bet that three distinct numbers will each turn up on one of the dice. Here, you are choosing specific numbers, for example, 3, 5, and 6, and you’re hoping to see each of these numbers appear on a separate die.  

Tips For Winning At Sic Bo: Remember It’s A Game Of Chance 

While there are some ways to minimise the risks and manage your bankroll, there’s no tip we could give you which would secure you a win. Of course, setting a clear budget and not chasing losses is a must, as it is with all games of chance.  

If you’re new to the game, make sure to start with smaller wagers and even-money odds. All players are advised to play clear-headedly, take breaks, know when to walk away and engage in safer gambling practices. 

Sic Bo Online FAQs