What Is Sic Bo?
Sic Bo (meaning "precious dice" in Chinese) is a traditional Chinese dice game played with three dice. It is widely popular in Asian casinos and has grown in global popularity through online gaming platforms. Players bet on various outcomes of a single dice roll, and the range of bet options makes it one of the more diverse table games available.
Like roulette, Sic Bo is purely a game of chance — no skill or strategy influences the dice roll itself. However, understanding the bets and their odds allows you to make informed choices that affect your overall experience.
How Sic Bo Is Played
- Players place bets on the Sic Bo table layout, which displays all available betting options.
- The dealer shakes three dice in a covered container (or in online versions, uses an RNG).
- The dice are revealed and the result is displayed on the board.
- Winning bets are paid according to the table's payout schedule; losing bets are collected.
Sic Bo Bet Types
Small and Big Bets
These are the most beginner-friendly bets and carry the lowest house edge (around 2.78%):
- Small: Total of three dice is between 4 and 10. Pays 1:1. Loses on a triple.
- Big: Total of three dice is between 11 and 17. Pays 1:1. Loses on a triple.
Totals Bets
You bet on the exact total of all three dice (ranging from 4 to 17). Payouts vary by how likely each total is:
| Total | Payout |
|---|---|
| 4 or 17 | 60:1 |
| 5 or 16 | 30:1 |
| 6 or 15 | 17:1 |
| 7 or 14 | 12:1 |
| 8 or 13 | 8:1 |
| 9, 10, 11, or 12 | 6:1 |
Middle totals (9–12) occur more frequently due to probability distribution, hence their lower payout.
Single Dice Bets
You bet on a specific number (1–6) appearing on one or more of the three dice. Payouts are based on how many dice show that number:
- Appears on 1 die: pays 1:1
- Appears on 2 dice: pays 2:1
- Appears on all 3 dice: pays 3:1
Double Bets
Bet that a specific number will appear on at least two of the three dice. For example, betting on "Double 4" means two dice must show a 4. Typical payout: 10:1.
Triple Bets
Bet that all three dice will show the same number. Specific Triple (e.g. three 6s) typically pays 180:1. Any Triple (any number appearing on all three dice) typically pays 30:1. These bets carry a very high house edge and should be used sparingly.
Combination Bets
Bet on a specific combination of two numbers appearing across the three dice (e.g. a 2 and a 5). Pays 6:1 with a moderate house edge.
Which Bets Offer the Best Value?
Based on house edge, here's a rough guide:
- Best: Small and Big bets (~2.78% house edge)
- Moderate: Combination bets, some totals
- Avoid for value: Specific triples and any triple (very high house edge)
Sic Bo Strategy Tips
- Start with Small and Big bets to build familiarity with the game's flow.
- Combine a Small/Big bet with a combination bet for variety without sacrificing too much on house edge.
- Avoid placing too many bets on a single roll — it can be hard to track results and manage your bankroll effectively.
- Treat high-payout bets (triples) as rare entertainment, not a regular strategy.
Final Thoughts
Sic Bo's variety of betting options gives it a depth that rewards players who take the time to understand the layout. For beginners, the Small and Big bets are a great entry point. As you grow comfortable, explore combination and totals bets to add excitement — always with an eye on the house edge behind each option.