The Rules of Hazard

To all who are interested in playing at the dice game known as Hazard, here are the rules.

Any number of persons may play, but only one player — the caster — has the dice at any one time.

In each round, the caster begins by establishing, by roll of the dice, a number between 5 and 9 inclusive: this is called the Main.

The caster then throws two dice.
-- If the main is thrown the caster Nicks
-- If the a 2 or 3 is thrown the caster Outs
-- On an 11 or 12 the result depends on the Main.
---- Main of 5 and 9 -- both 11 and 12 are Outs
---- Main of 6 and 8 -- 11 is an Out but 12 is a Nick
---- Main of 7 -- 11 is a Nick, 12 is an Out.

If the caster neither Nicks or Outs on this roll then the number thrown becomes the Chance. After the chance has been established the caster then Nicks if they roll the Chance again and Out if they throw the Main. After three resolutions of either Nick or Out the dice will pass to the next player who then becomes the Caster.

Side bets are allowed between multiple players and need not involve the caster. The house recommends that all side bets be done at true odds which are printed on the layout. For a small fee the caster will be permitted to choose their own Main rather than leaving it to chance. Additionally a caster wishing to let their winnings ride on the Main will be permitted to continue with the Main already established.

All bets must be made using representative chips. Anyone involved in the game who draws blade or by other means threatens other players in the game or the house will have their money and chips forfeit.

Why would you not simply play craps?

H.T.

Craps is descended from Hazard, why not play the original?

I would think it's the same thing I mean wouldn't crap be a hazard?
Just saying.. :cool:

This sounds like an interesting game, but I am finding the rules a little confusing. I think I would need someone to teach me to play first hand.

-Carlotta OZ

I am more than happy to teach anyone who asks.

Any game of "chance" the rules of which must be explained to be understood and run by a professional gambler should be avoided like the plague.

Given the recent outbreak in Travance of a plague I think perhaps you are overstating your position. Games of chance are harmless diversions which can be enjoyed quite safely if one is responsible to not wager more than one can afford to lose. Do not blame the game for one's own lack of self control. The plague won't stop to tell you the rules by which it runs.

Agreed. One of the most useful skills to develop for playing any game of chance is of course the ability to walk away when you need to.

Of course, there's always the possibility of playing a game where the rules *aren't* explained... perhaps those are more interesting?

The color commentary is not needed here. Should anyone desire to learn or play Valentine Graye's game, then so be it. There have been many citizen's within our lands who have placed wagers about games. Whether it be cards, chess, dice, or other such skills. Travance encourages all it's people to seek out businesses/enterprises that may help our land prosper.

Master Graye, I wish you luck in your endeavor & hope your game is fun... & most importantly honest. I'm sure the Watch would strongly dislike having to break up any brawls or "disagreements" about winnings.

Is this the game I played last feast? It isn't complicated at all. Master Haroldson, the outcome is entirely dependent on your dice, it is not at all affected by any others playing.

Terezi Pyrope

My point is that games of chance incorporating betting based on odds are in and of themselves sufficiently complex that if one adds another variable, such as the system being unclear, it is (from my perspective) desirable to avoid such. "Avoid like the plague" is an expression, indicating the degree to which I believe one should avoid them.

If a game is truly even and balanced and based on chance, there is no "house incentive." It is also my experience that very few people organize betting games of chance without some sort of edge pertaining to the house. However, in Travance, very little now surprises me.

The dangers of gambling are what they will be. I think we all know the risks. Learning a new game will be entertaining, if nothing else. I look forward to meeting you Valentine. I do not think I have had the pleasure.

--Carlotta OZ

It will be a pleasure to meet you and a joy to teach you the game of Hazard.