Sic bo is one of the oldest dice games still played in casinos today, with roots stretching back centuries to ancient China. For Australian players, it offers a refreshing alternative to pokies and blackjack, blending simple mechanics with a wide spread of betting options. The game uses three standard dice, shaken inside a covered cage or tumbler, and your job is to predict which combinations or totals will land face-up. Discover further information on Gamdom.
What makes sic bo appealing is its flexibility. You can wager on a single number, a specific total, or a combination of results, and each bet carries its own odds and payout. Understanding these differences is the key to playing smart rather than guessing.
The Core Bets and Their Payouts
Most sic bo tables in Australia present a felt layout divided into sections, each representing a different type of wager. Small bets cover totals from 4 to 10, while big bets cover 11 to 17. Both pay even money, though a total of 3 or 18 (three of a kind) causes these bets to lose. Specific totals range from 4 to 17, with payouts increasing for the rarer numbers , a total of 4 or 17 typically pays 60 to 1, while a total of 10 or 11 pays around 6 to 1.
Single number bets let you pick a face value, such as a three. If one die shows that number, you’re paid 1 to 1; if two dice match, it’s 2 to 1; and if all three land on it, the payout jumps to 12 to 1. Combination bets require two specific numbers to appear and usually pay 5 to 1, while any triple pays a hefty 30 to 1.
Here’s a quick breakdown of common wagers and their typical returns:
| Bet Type | Payout |
|---|---|
| Small / Big | 1 to 1 |
| Specific Total (4 or 17) | 60 to 1 |
| Single Number (one match) | 1 to 1 |
| Single Number (three matches) | 12 to 1 |
| Any Triple | 30 to 1 |
House Edge and Smart Play
Not all sic bo bets are created equal. The small and big bets carry a house edge of roughly 2.78%, making them among the fairest options on the table. Combination bets sit around 7.4%, while specific totals can climb above 12% depending on the number chosen. Single number bets land near 7.87%.
For Australian players, the practical takeaway is straightforward: stick to the low-edge bets and treat high-payout wagers as occasional entertainment rather than a strategy. There’s no skill element in sic bo , the dice decide everything , so bankroll discipline matters more than any system.
Set a session limit before you start, and remember that the odds never change regardless of previous results. Play within your means, and sic bo becomes an engaging, fast-paced addition to any casino visit.
