Don't Pass Strategy
Betting against the shooter for a slightly lower 1.36% house edge. Also known as 'playing the dark side' in craps. A smart contrarian approach.
Overall Score
8.1
House Edge
0.27% (with 3-4-5x odds)
Difficulty
Beginner
Best For
Players who don't mind being contrarian
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The Don't Pass bet is the mirror image of the Pass Line. You win when the shooter sevens out, and lose when they make their point. The house edge is 1.36%, marginally better than the Pass Line's 1.41%.
Like the Pass Line, you can lay odds behind the Don't Pass bet. But with Don't Pass, you're laying odds (betting more to win less) instead of taking odds. The payout ratios are reversed: 1:2 on 4/10, 2:3 on 5/9, and 5:6 on 6/8.
With maximum odds, the combined house edge drops even lower than Pass Line + odds: approximately 0.27% with 3-4-5x odds. This is one of the absolute best bets in any casino game.
The main downside is social: you're betting against the shooter and often against the rest of the table. When everyone is cheering for a point, you're hoping for a seven. This can create an uncomfortable dynamic.
Some Don't Pass players mitigate the social aspect by not celebrating their wins openly, or by playing at emptier tables. Online craps eliminates this issue entirely.
Advantages
- Slightly lower house edge than Pass Line
- With odds, one of the best bets in the casino
- Mathematically optimal craps strategy
Disadvantages
- Socially unpopular since you're betting against the table
- Laying odds requires larger bets for smaller wins
- Can feel counterintuitive for new players
Key Takeaway
If you can handle being the villain at the craps table, Don't Pass + lay odds is the mathematically superior choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Don't Pass Strategy strategy?
Betting against the shooter for a slightly lower 1.36% house edge. Also known as 'playing the dark side' in craps. A smart contrarian approach.
What is the house edge with Don't Pass Strategy?
The effective house edge is 0.27% (with 3-4-5x odds). If you can handle being the villain at the craps table, Don't Pass + lay odds is the mathematically superior choice.
How difficult is Don't Pass Strategy?
Rated Beginner difficulty, takes approximately 15 minutes to learn. Best for: Players who don't mind being contrarian.
Disclaimer: No strategy can guarantee profits at casino games. The house always has a mathematical edge (except in rare advantage play scenarios). Gambling involves risk of financial loss. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose. If you have a gambling problem, call 1-800-522-4700.
Strategy Rating
Score Breakdown
Mathematical impact on house edge
How easy to learn and execute
Lower risk = higher score
Will casinos allow this?
Capital requirements
Related Strategies
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