There always seems to be a party going on around a craps table. The shooter, the bettors, even the table staff — all contribute to the convivial atmosphere by shouting encouragement, hollering out bets, and whooping with delight at a successful throw. To the novice, the energy can be just as intimidating as the rules, the crowded table layout, and the lingo surrounding the game, but the game itself is simple. Once you penetrate the mystique, it's easy to join the party.