Cee-lo Dice Game Review: Where to Play for Money

Cee-lo is an intriguing gambling game played with three six-sided dice. The game’s essence revolves around certain winning combinations, and while there isn’t a universally standardized set of game rules, there are consistent elements across different rule sets. Originating from the Chinese term, Sì-Wŭ-Liù, which translates to “four-five-six”, the game has garnered various monikers worldwide.

Cee-lo’s Historical Roots

In 1893, Stewart Culin documented Cee-lo as the preferred dice game among Chinese-Americans in San Francisco. The game’s popularity isn’t restricted to San Francisco; it is beloved in American metropolises like Harlem, Brownsville, Crown Heights, South Bronx, and Washington Heights in New York City. Elsewhere, the variant known as “street craps” is predominant in cities like Los Angeles, Atlanta, Chicago, and regions in the south.

The game’s prominence also finds echoes in pop culture, particularly within the realm of hip hop since the 1990s. Renowned artists like Kool G Rap, Big L, Jadakiss, Nas, and Notorious B.I.G., among others, have paid homage to Cee-lo in their compositions.

Names of Cee-lo Across the Globe

• America: See-Low, Four-Five-Six, The Three Dice Game, Roll-off!, Dice
• China: Sān Liù Bàozi, meaning Three-Six Leopards
• Japan: Chinchiro, Chinchirorin

Fundamentals of Cee-lo Dice Game: The Rules

Cee lo operates as a banking game where players place bets against a central banker. It also functions as a “point game.” In this setup, certain rolls of the dice set a point for the player, much like in the well-known dice game, craps.

In Cee-lo, a single participant takes on the role of the banker, with others placing even money bets against this central figure. As an example, if someone places a $10 bet, the outcome of the dice roll determines if they win or lose that amount. This arrangement gives the banker a slight edge over other players, approximately 2.7% of the total amount bet. When someone assumes the banker’s role, they present an initial stake referred to as the bank or center bet. Upon declaring this amount, other players get an opportunity to match or “fade” the stated bet. This fading process starts from the player to the banker’s immediate left and moves clockwise. Players can fade any amount they wish until the entire bank amount is covered or all players have taken their turn.

For illustration, if the bank amounts to $100, different players might choose to fade various amounts such as $20 or $60. Once the bank is entirely faded, that round’s betting concludes. Conversely, if the bank is set at $100 and six players each fade $10 without any further bets, the banker retains the unfaded $40 and only the covered stakes are played.

Bets are then decided based on dice rolls. If the banker continues to hold control after the bet settlements, they can either increase their stake or keep it as is for the following round. The game progresses with new rounds, and players repeat the fading process.

The control of the bank isn’t permanent. Specific events can lead to a shift. If, in any round, all players outdo the banker, they collectively “break the bank.” Following this, the next player in sequence assumes the banker’s role with their initial stake. Alternatively, a player who defeats the banker with a 4-5-6 roll or by rolling triples can become the new banker after the previous banker settles outstanding bets.

The Banker’s Roll

Once all bets are placed, the banker proceeds with the dice roll. There are four potential outcomes:

• Automatic Win: A roll of 4-5-6, triples (all three dice displaying the same number), or any pair (excluding pairs of 6s) with a 6 results in an immediate win for the banker. In Chinese, these are known as “4-5-6 straight kill”, and “leopards”.
• Automatic Loss: Should the banker roll a 1-2-3 or any pair (excluding pairs of 1s) with a 1, all bets are instantly lost. This is referred to as “1-2-3 straight lose” and “asshole ones” in Chinese.
• Set Point: Rolling a pair along with a single number (2, 3, 4, or 5) sets that single number as the banker’s “point.” For instance, a 2-2-4 roll sets the point as 4. It’s essential to note that a point of 1 or 6 isn’t possible as these results correspond to automatic outcomes.
• Re-roll: In the absence of the above combinations, the banker rolls again. This continues until the banker attains an automatic win or loss or sets a point.

The Player’s Roll

If the banker’s roll doesn’t result in an automatic win or loss, they would have set a point, either 2, 3, 4, or 5. Following this, each player rolls the dice to finalize their individual bet against the banker. Players win with a roll of 4–5–6, a triple, or any point higher than the banker’s. They face a loss with a 1–2–3 or any point lower than the banker’s. If players match the banker’s point, it’s termed a “push” — neither a win nor a loss — and players take back their bets. Players keep rolling until they achieve a win, loss, or point.

The privilege of being the next banker often goes to the first player who wins with a 4–5–6 or a triple. Bets are settled before this transition. Often, a 4–5–6 roll pays double, triples pay triple the bet, and triple 1s reward five times the wager. However, players can mutually decide on different betting systems.

Variations in Game Rules

There are Cee-lo versions where the winning and losing rolls are reversed for the non-banking player. Here, a 1–2–3 becomes a win for the player, while a 4–5–6 results in a loss. If this rule extends to making triples a losing roll for the player, it slightly tips the advantage in favor of the banker.

“Winner Take All” Variation: Cee lo Without a Bank

In this adaptation of Cee lo, players participate with equal footing each round. They mutually decide on a betting amount, which each contributes to the central pot. Players then take turns rolling three dice simultaneously, continuing until they achieve a recognized pattern. The player with the superior roll claims the pot. If there’s a tie for the top roll, involved players engage in a tiebreaker round.

Here’s how the rolls rank, from highest to lowest:

4-5-6: This is the pinnacle roll. Achieving this means an instant win.

Trips: This is when all three dice display identical numbers. Among trips, higher numbers dominate. For instance, 4-4-4 trumps 3-3-3. Any trips combination will beat any point.

Point: Achieved by rolling two dice of the same number and a third, distinct number. The standalone number is designated the “point.” Among points, higher numbers are superior. For instance, 2-2-6 surpasses 5-5-2.

1-2-3: The lowest conceivable roll, an automatic loss.

All other rolls are non-significant and warrant a re-roll until one of the recognized patterns emerges.

Summary Table with Possible Outcomes in Cee-Lo Dice Game

When playing the game of Cee-Lo, the initial roll is made by the first player, often referred to as the banker. Below are the potential outcomes based on the dice rolls:

Playing Cee-lo for Money in Online Casinos

Cee-lo, a popular dice game with origins in China, has found its way into the digital realm of online casinos. When playing for real money online, it’s essential to understand the game’s mechanics, as well as the specifics of online play. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to play Cee lo for money in online casinos:

• Select a Reputable Online Casino: Research online casinos that offer Cee-lo. Look for casinos that have a good reputation, positive reviews, and appropriate licensing from recognized gaming authorities.
• Sign Up and Create an Account: Register with your chosen casino. This will involve providing personal details and verifying your identity. Ensure you select a strong, unique password for security reasons.
• Deposit Funds: Most online casinos offer various deposit methods, including credit cards, bank transfers, e-wallets, and even cryptocurrencies. Select your preferred method and deposit the amount you wish to play with. Be sure to check if there are any deposit bonuses or promotions you can take advantage of.
• Navigate to the Game: Once logged in, head to the game section and locate Cee-lo among the list of dice games.
• Understand the Rules: Although the basic rules of Cee-lo are generally consistent, online casinos might have slight variations or additional features. Familiarize yourself with the specific rules of the online version you’re playing.
• Place Your Bet: Decide on the amount you want to wager and place your bet. Online versions may have minimum and maximum bet limits.
• Play the Game: Roll the dice digitally, either by clicking a button or using an on-screen control. The game software will automatically determine the result based on the dice outcome.
• Withdraw Your Winnings: If you win, your winnings will be credited to your casino account. You can then choose to play further or withdraw your funds using the casino’s withdrawal methods.

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Cee Lo: Strategies to Win

Cee-lo is largely a game of chance, given its reliance on dice rolls. However, like many gambling games, there are some strategic considerations that players can keep in mind to improve their odds of winning or, at the very least, to optimize their enjoyment and experience with the game. Here are some general strategies and considerations for playing Cee-lo:

• Understanding the Rules: It might sound basic, but the first step to developing a strategy for any game is to thoroughly understand its rules. Knowing exactly what combinations result in wins, losses, or a re-roll is essential.
• Manage Your Bankroll: Decide beforehand how much you’re willing to risk, and stick to that decision. By managing your bankroll effectively, you avoid the risk of significant losses.
• Observe the Banker: If the banker is on a losing streak, it might be a good time to increase your bets. Conversely, if they’re on a winning streak, it might be wise to bet more conservatively or even skip a round.
• Choose the Right Time to Bank: The banker often has a slight advantage. If the option to bank rotates and comes to you, consider taking it, especially if you feel lucky.
• Understand the House Edge: If you’re playing in a setting where there’s a house cut from every pot, remember that the longer you play, the more the odds favor the house. In such a setting, short and infrequent games might be to your advantage.
• Avoid Side Bets: Some players might offer side bets or variations to spice up the game. While these can be entertaining, they can also shift the odds. It’s essential to understand any side bet thoroughly before agreeing to it.

Conclusion 

Cee-lo, a captivating dice game with Chinese roots, seamlessly integrates the thrill of luck with simple strategy. While traditional gameplay remains a classic, its introduction to online casinos broadens its appeal to a global audience. Whether played in a festive street-side setting or on a sleek online platform, Cee-lo’s allure lies in its simplicity, quick rounds, and the tantalizing possibility of a win.

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AuthorBruce Baxter

Bruce Baxter is an expert author in the iGaming industry, with a particular focus on crash gambling. With over a decade of experience in the field, Bruce has developed an in-depth understanding of the latest trends and developments in the world of online gambling. He has authored numerous articles, blog posts, and research papers on the topic.