Explore the exciting world of the casino game roulette in this comprehensive guide by knowing how to play and discover winning strategies.
Step into the glamorous world of roulette, a game that has captivated gamblers for centuries. Originating in 18th-century France, this iconic game—meaning "little wheel"—combines chance with the thrill of high stakes.
Roulette's influence extends beyond the casino floor, having made its mark in pop culture through classic films like Casablanca and modern hits such as Ocean’s Eleven, where it symbolizes both risk and reward. It has inspired songs, art, and fashion, cementing its status as a timeless emblem of chance.
This article provides an in-depth look at roulette, its components, step-by-step instructions on how to play, effective strategies to increase your chances of winning, and a summary of the best roulette strategies available.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned player, roulette promises an exhilarating experience that embodies the excitement of life’s gambles.
What is Roulette?
Roulette is a game of chance played in casinos worldwide. It involves a spinning wheel with numbered pockets and a ball that is dropped onto the wheel, where it eventually lands in one of the pockets.
THE OBJECTIVE
The objective of the game is to predict where the ball will land after the wheel has stopped spinning. The game can be played in various formats, including classic roulette, American roulette, and European roulette, each offering unique features and rules. Your probability to win increases with the number of times you bet, but your overall payout will decrease.
Definition Of Terms:
Before placing your bet in Roulette, it’s important for you to understand some of the key terms first, which we will also explain in more detail further into this guide.
American Roulette - A version of roulette with both a zero (0) and double zero (00). American roulette has a house edge of 5.26%.
Corner Bet - A bet on four numbers that form a square on the roulette table.
Column Bet - A bet on an entire column of numbers (12 numbers in total).
Dozen Bet - A bet on one of three sets of 12 numbers: 1-12, 13-24, or 25-36.
En Prison Rule - A rule in some European roulette games. If you place an even-money bet and the ball lands on zero, you can leave your bet "in prison" for the next spin. If it wins on the next spin, you recover your bet with no additional winnings.
Even-Money Bet - A bet that covers nearly half the numbers on the table. These include Red/Black, Odd/Even, and Low/High (1-18 or 19-36). The payout is 1 to 1.
European Roulette - A version of roulette with a single zero (0), which offers a lower house edge (2.7%) compared to American roulette.
Five-Number Bet - A unique bet available only in American roulette, covering 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3.
House Edge - The mathematical advantage that the casino has over the player in any given game.
Inside Bets - Bets placed on specific numbers or small groups of numbers (such as straight, split, street, corner, and line bets).
La Partage Rule - Similar to the En Prison rule but instead allows you to get half your even-money bet back if the ball lands on zero.
Line Bet - A bet on two adjacent rows of numbers (a total of six numbers).
Outside Bets - Bets placed on larger groupings of numbers, such as red/black, odd/even, high/low, columns, or dozens.
Straight Bet - A bet placed on a single number, has the highest payout in roulette.
Split Bet - A bet on two adjacent numbers on the table. The payout is 17 to 1, and it allows players to cover two numbers with one bet.
Street Bet - A bet placed on a row of three consecutive numbers (e.g., 1-2-3). This bet has a payout of 11 to 1.
Zero (0) and Double Zero (00) - These are green pockets on the roulette wheel. European roulette has one zero (0), while American roulette has two (0 and 00).
Wheel Layout - The arrangement of numbers on the roulette wheel
Parts Of The Roulette Table
A roulette table has various sections and components that players use for placing bets and dealers use to manage the game. Here are the main parts:
The Roulette Wheel
Numbered Pockets: Alternating red and black pockets numbered 1–36, plus one or two green pockets for 0 (and sometimes 00, depending on the game version).
Ball Track: The outer ring where the ball is spun before it lands in a pocket.
Spindle: The central part of the wheel that allows it to spin smoothly.
Frets: Small dividers between each pocket.
The table indicates options where players can wage their bet.
The Betting Layout
Inside Bets Area: Includes numbers 0 to 36 where players can place bets directly on specific numbers or groups of numbers.
Outside Bets Area: Contains additional betting options:
Red/Black: Bets on the color of the winning pocket.
Odd/Even: Bets on whether the winning number will be odd or even.
1-18 / 19-36: Bets on low (1-18) or high (19-36) numbers.
Columns: Three columns of numbers with each column covering 12 numbers.
Dozens: Three sets of 12 numbers (1-12, 13-24, 25-36).
Zero Bets Area: Often marked separately, especially in European and French roulette, as it's unique in its payout.
Racetrack (or Track) - An oval betting area on some tables, especially European and French roulette, representing the order of numbers on the wheel. It includes:
Voisins du Zéro (Neighbors of Zero): Covers numbers close to 0 on the wheel.
Tiers du Cylindre (Thirds of the Wheel): Bets covering numbers on the opposite side of the wheel from 0.
Orphelins (Orphans): Covers the numbers that aren’t in the Voisins or Tiers sections.
Roadmap
A roulette roadmap is a visual tool used by players to track the outcomes of spins on a roulette wheel. It typically consists of a grid or chart that displays the numbers on the wheel and allows players to mark the results of each spin. It’s usually seen in Online Casino roulettes.
Here's how a roulette roadmap can be used:
Tracking Patterns: By marking the results of each spin, players can identify potential patterns or trends in the numbers that have appeared. This can help them make informed decisions about their bets.
Identifying Hot and Cold Numbers: A roadmap can highlight numbers that have appeared frequently (hot numbers) or infrequently (cold numbers). Some players believe that tracking these numbers can give them an edge.
Using Betting Systems: Certain betting systems, such as the Martingale or Fibonacci systems, can be visualized and managed more effectively using a roadmap.
Analyzing Strategies: Players can use a roadmap to test different betting strategies and assess their effectiveness over time.
However, it's important to remember that roulette is a game of chance, and no strategy can guarantee consistent wins. While a roadmap can be a helpful tool for tracking results and making informed decisions, it's essential to approach roulette with realistic expectations and a responsible gambling attitude
Chips & Chip Racks
Chips: Players use chips to place bets, with each player typically assigned a specific color.
Chip Racks: Located on the dealer’s side to organize and store chips.
Marker (Dolly) - A small marker used by the dealer to indicate the winning number after each spin.
These elements work together to facilitate gameplay, allowing players to place a range of strategic bets.
Types Of Roulette
Roulette comes in several variations, each offering a unique twist on the classic casino game. The most popular types include European and American.
How do they differ? American Roulette has an additional "00" number. It has a higher house edge (5.26 percent) as compared to the European Roulette (2.7 percent), which has only one "0" - the latter is more popular since it has a slightly lower house edge.
American Roulette - American roulette features 38 pockets, including an additional "00" pocket alongside the single "0." This extra "00" increases the house edge to 5.26%, making it less favorable to players compared to European roulette. The rules and betting options are similar to other versions, but the extra pocket decreases the chances of winning bets. It's a popular variant in U.S. casinos, offering higher-risk gameplay.
European Roulette - European roulette has 37 pockets with a single "0," making it more player-friendly due to a lower house edge of 2.7%. This version’s layout and rules are similar to American roulette, but the absence of the "00" pocket significantly improves the odds for players. European roulette is widely preferred for its better chances of winning, especially in European and online casinos.
STEP BY STEP: HOW TO PLAY ROULETTE
Playing roulette is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Place Your Bet: Decide how much you want to wager and place your chips on the desired spots on the roulette table. You can choose from various betting options, such as single numbers, groups of numbers, or colors.
Spin the Wheel: Once all bets are placed, the croupier will announce “no more bets” and spin the wheel in one direction, then launch the ball in the opposite direction.
Await the Outcome: Watch as the ball bounces around the wheel and eventually lands in one of the numbered pockets.
Collect Winnings or Lose Your Bet: The croupier will announce the winning number and color, and payouts will be made accordingly. If your bet is successful, you’ll receive your winnings based on the odds of the bet placed; if not, you lose your wager.
HOW TO WIN IN ROULETTE
While there's no guaranteed strategy to win at roulette, understanding the game's mechanics and managing your bankroll can improve your chances. Opt for bets with lower odds but higher probabilities, like red/black, odd/even, or high/low. However, remember that these systems are not foolproof and can lead to significant losses if not used responsibly. Ultimately, roulette is a game of chance, and the house always has an edge.
Pick your preferred payout
In roulette, the "payout" represents the ratio of winnings to the original bet amount if you win. It tells you how much you'll earn for every unit you bet. Here’s what different payout ratios mean:
Type | Numbers covered | Payout | Description |
Straight Bet | 1 | 35 to 1 | Betting on a single number (e.g., 7 or 32). Win if the ball lands on your chosen number. |
Split Bet | 2 | 17 to 1 | Betting on two adjacent numbers (e.g., 5 and 6). Win if the ball lands on either number. |
Straight Bet | 1 | 35 to 1 | Betting on a single number (e.g., 7 or 32). Win if the ball lands on your chosen number. |
Corner Bet | 4 | 8 to 1 | Betting on a block of four numbers (e.g., 10, 11, 13, and 14). Win if the ball lands on any of them. |
Line Bet | 6 | 5 to 1 | Betting on two adjacent rows (e.g., 16-17-18 and 19-20-21). Win if the ball lands on any of these. |
Column Bet | 12 | 2 to 1 | Betting on a vertical column of 12 numbers (e.g., 1, 4, 7). Win if the ball lands on one of these. |
Dozen Bet | 12 | 2 to 1 | Betting on a set of 12 numbers: 1-12, 13-24, or 25-36. |
Even-Money Bet | 18 | 1 to 1 | Betting on nearly half the table. Includes Red/Black, Odd/Even, and Low (1-18) / High (19-36). |
Five-Number Bet * | 5 | 6 to 1 | Available only in American roulette, covering 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3. |
Look at the Probabilities Of Winning Each Bet
The odds and payouts for different bets vary, with some bets offering higher payouts but lower probabilities of winning. Understanding the probabilities and house edge of different bets can help players make informed decisions and manage their bankroll effectively.
European Roulette
European Roulette offers better odds for players compared to American Roulette due to its single zero, resulting in a lower house edge and higher probabilities of winning specific bets.
Bet Type | Probability of Winning | Payout Odds | House Edge |
Single Number | 1/37 ≈ 2.70% | 35:1 | 2.70% |
Split Bet (2 numbers) | 2/37 ≈ 5.41% | 17:1 | 5.26% |
Street Bet (3 numbers) | 3/37 ≈ 8.11% | 11:1 | 5.26% |
Corner Bet (4 numbers) | 4/37 ≈ 10.81% | 8:1 | 5.26% |
Line Bet (6 numbers) | 6/37 ≈ 16.22% | 5:1 | 5.26% |
Column Bet (12 numbers) | 12/37 ≈ 32.43% | 2:1 | 5.26% |
Dozen Bet (12 numbers) | 12/37 ≈ 32.43% | 2:1 | 5.26% |
Red/Black | 18/37 ≈ 48.65% | 1:1 | 2.70% |
Odd/Even | 18/37 ≈ 48.65% | 1:1 | 2.70% |
High/Low | 18/37 ≈ 48.65% | 1:1 | 2.70% |
American Roulette
Note that American roulette increases the house edge compared to European Roulette, making it less favorable for players.
Bet Type | Probability of Winning | Payout Odds | House Edge |
Single Number | 1/38 ≈ 2.63% | 35:1 | 5.26% |
Split Bet (2 numbers) | 2/38 ≈ 5.26% | 17:1 | 5.26% |
Street Bet (3 numbers) | 3/38 ≈ 7.89% | 11:1 | 5.26% |
Corner Bet (4 numbers) | 4/38 ≈ 10.53% | 8:1 | 5.26% |
Line Bet (6 numbers) | 6/38 ≈ 15.79% | 5:1 | 5.26% |
Column Bet (12 numbers) | 12/38 ≈ 31.58% | 2:1 | 5.26% |
Dozen Bet (12 numbers) | 12/38 ≈ 31.58% | 2:1 | 5.26% |
Red/Black | 18/38 ≈ 47.37% | 1:1 | 5.26% |
Odd/Even | 18/38 ≈ 47.37% | 1:1 | 5.26% |
High/Low | 18/38 ≈ 47.37% | 1:1 | 5.26% |
Other Rules To Remember
Roulette is a popular casino game with various betting options and rules that can significantly affect your gameplay. Understanding these rules is key to making informed betting decisions. Some rules, like the En Prison and La Partage, offer players opportunities to recover bets in certain situations, while others, like the house edge and betting limits, influence your overall chances of winning
En Prison Rule - If you place an even-money bet (e.g., Red/Black, Odd/Even) and the ball lands on zero (0), your bet is "in prison" for the next spin. If the next spin is a win, you recover your original bet but don’t win any profit.
Scenario: You place a ₱500 bet on black, The ball lands on zero (0). Your ₱500 bet is now "in prison." If the next spin lands on black, you get back ₱500 but don’t earn any profit. If it lands on red or even, you lose your ₱500.
La Partage Rule - This happens if the ball lands on zero (0), you lose half of your even-money bet, and the other half is returned to you.
How to win?: If you win your bet, you'll receive the standard payout for that bet. If the ball lands on zero, you'll lose half your bet, and the other half is returned to you.
Scenario: You place a ₱500 bet on red, The ball lands on zero (0). According to the La Partage rule, you lose ₱250 and get ₱250 back.
The House Edge - The house edge is the casino’s advantage in the game. In European roulette, the house edge is 2.7%, while in American roulette, it’s 5.26% because of the double zero (00).
Scenario: You place a ₱1,000 bet on red in European roulette. Over time, you are expected to lose about ₱27 for every ₱1,000 wagered due to the house edge. In American roulette, the expected loss for a ₱1,000 bet would be ₱52.60 due to the additional double zero (00).
Betting Limits - Every roulette table has minimum and maximum bet limits that players must adhere to. The minimum is the smallest amount you can wager, and the maximum is the largest.
Scenario: A table has a minimum bet of ₱100 and a maximum bet of ₱5,000. If you try to place a ₱50 bet, the dealer won’t accept it. If you try to place a ₱6,000 bet, the dealer will also reject it.
Betting Strategy (Martingale) - Involves doubling your bet after each loss in order to recover losses when you eventually win. It’s often used with even-money bets (e.g., Red/Black).
Scenario: You place a ₱200 bet on black. If the ball lands on red, you double your bet to ₱400 for the next round.
If the next round lands on black, you win ₱400 and recover your initial loss of ₱200 (you make a ₱200 profit). If the ball lands on red again, you double your bet to ₱800, and continue until you win.
Online Roulettes: Which Ones To Pick?
When evaluating online roulette options, gambling sites focus on providing an engaging and secure environment for players. They prioritize a mix of exciting bonuses, diverse game offerings, and robust security measures.
Online Roulettes: Which Ones To Pick?
When evaluating online roulette options, gambling sites focus on providing an engaging and secure environment for players. They prioritize a mix of exciting bonuses, diverse game offerings, and robust security measures. Here are the key factors that gambling sites consider to deliver a top-notch roulette experience:
Bonuses: Sites with generous bonuses for new and returning players are highly rated. This includes welcome bonuses, matched funds, free spins, and reasonable playthrough requirements. Special attention is given to how roulette contributes to meeting these wagering conditions.
Entertainment Features: To create an enjoyable roulette experience, the site should offer a variety of options, including Random Number Generator (RNG) games and live dealer roulette. Catering to different budgets ensures that all players find something suited to their preferences.
Safety and Security: Player protection is crucial. The top sites feature secure connections via TLS encryption, maintain proper licensing, and adhere to local laws. Responsive customer support also plays a role in maintaining a safe gambling environment
Transactions: The availability of multiple payment methods, including credit cards, e-wallets, cryptocurrency, and wire transfers, is essential. Low fees, high transaction limits, and quick processing times further enhance the player experience.
By focusing on these factors, gambling sites can offer a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for online roulette enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions On Roulette
What is roulette?
Roulette is a classic casino game where players place bets on where a small ball will land on a spinning wheel. The wheel is divided into numbered slots, which are either red or black, with a single green slot for zero (or two green slots in American roulette). Players can bet on specific numbers, colors, or groups of numbers, and the payout depends on the type of bet made.
What are the rules of roulette?
In roulette, players place their bets on a table layout that corresponds to the numbered sections of the spinning wheel. The dealer spins the wheel and releases a ball, and when the ball lands in a numbered pocket, the winning bets are paid out. Players can bet on single numbers, groups of numbers, odd or even, red or black, or other combinations, each offering different odds and payouts.
Is roulette pure luck?
Yes, roulette is largely a game of chance, as the outcome of each spin is entirely random. There are no skills that can predict where the ball will land. While betting strategies can help manage risk and guide decision-making, they don’t influence the actual outcome of the spin.
What is the best strategy to play roulette?
The best strategy in roulette is to manage your bankroll and make bets that align with your risk tolerance. Many players use betting systems like the Martingale (doubling bets after a loss) or the D’Alembert system, but no strategy guarantees a win since roulette outcomes are random. Playing European roulette, with its lower house edge, can slightly improve your odds compared to American roulette.
What are the differences between American and European roulette?
The main difference between these versions is the layout of the wheel and the house edge. American roulette has 38 pockets (numbers 1–36, plus 0 and 00), which increases the house edge. European roulette has 37 pockets (numbers 1–36, plus a single 0), offering better odds for players.
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