If you’ve ever watched a dice game at a casino, you might have noticed the staff swapping out the dice quite regularly.
It can seem a bit odd at first, especially if you’re new to games like craps. The changeovers are careful and deliberate, often carried out with several staff members watching and CCTV recording.
This routine is part of keeping games fair and compliant with regulations. If you’ve wondered why it happens so often, the reasons are more practical than you might expect. Read on to learn more.
Why Do Casinos Change Dice?
The main purpose is to protect the integrity of the game. Fresh dice, taken from sealed sets, reduce the chance of tampering or wear that could influence outcomes. Because even small imperfections can shift how a die behaves, casinos keep a close eye on condition.
Many venues have set schedules for swapping dice, such as after a specific number of rolls or every few hours. Others change them sooner if staff spot any flaws. A tiny nick, a chipped corner, or uneven pips can be enough to create bias, so anything that looks off is removed from play.
These checks help casinos meet licensing standards for fairness and transparency. For online play, there are no physical dice. Games rely on tested Random Number Generators (RNGs), which are independently assessed to verify that results are unbiased.
If you do decide to try your hand at casino dice games, remember to do so responsibly and within your means; never wager more than you can afford to lose.
How Do Casinos Check Dice for Fair Play?
Casinos use precise methods to make sure each die is uniform and fit for use. Before dice are opened at a table, staff verify dimensions and weight so every die in the set matches. Even a fraction of a gram can affect results.
Special tools such as calipers are used to measure faces and edges. Staff examine pips and surfaces for scratches, dents, or ridges. All six sides must be perfectly flat, as any raised or sunken area can influence how a die settles.
Some venues place dice into clear cubes or jigs that reveal if a die sits flat and level. If it rocks, tilts, or fails to line up properly, it is removed immediately.
Casinos also record when dice are checked, introduced, and retired. Good record-keeping supports accountability and makes audits straightforward.
Online games work differently, as mentioned earlier. Instead of physical checks, fairness is demonstrated through certification of the RNGs that power the games.
How Often Do Dice Get Replaced at the Table?
Dice usually do not stay in play for long. Some casinos change them on a fixed timetable, such as every few hours. Others take a more flexible approach and replace them based on the number of rolls, the pace of play, or any visible wear.
Staff monitor dice throughout a session. If they notice unusual marks or damage, the set can be swapped instantly rather than waiting for the next scheduled change. That way, play continues with confidence that the equipment is in good condition.
Records of these replacements are kept so there is a clear chain of use. This supports fair operations and helps resolve any queries about a particular session.
Are There Security Risks With Using the Same Dice for Too Long?
Yes. The longer a set remains on the table, the greater the chance that minor wear and tear will build up. Repeated throws can create tiny dents or scuffs, which may nudge results over time. Those flaws are often hard to spot in the moment, which is why frequent inspections and rotations are important.
There is also the risk of interference. The more time dice spend in play, the wider the window for someone to attempt subtle changes, such as shaving an edge or adding the thinnest layer of material. Even small alterations can upset balance.
Regular changes, tight storage procedures, and surveillance reduce these risks. Combined, they help ensure that what happens at the table reflects the intended design of the game rather than the condition of the equipment.
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**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.