Roulette is one of the most iconic and exciting games in any casino. With its spinning wheel, bouncing ball, and variety of betting options, it offers a thrilling combination of chance and strategy. But before you place your first chip, it’s important to understand the fundamentals of the game. Whether you’re a first-time player or someone looking to sharpen their knowledge, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the roulette basics, history, rules, variations, strategies, and more.
What is Roulette?
Roulette is a casino game named after the French word meaning “little wheel.” Players bet on where a ball will land on a spinning wheel divided into numbered pockets. The wheel contains numbers 1 through 36, alternating between red and black, plus one or two green pockets for 0 (and 00 in American roulette).
Types of Roulette
European Roulette
Features a wheel with 37 pockets (numbers 1-36 and a single 0). The house edge is 2.7%, making it more favorable for players.
American Roulette
Has 38 pockets (numbers 1-36, 0, and 00). The additional 00 increases the house edge to 5.26%.
French Roulette
Similar to European but with two special rules: “La Partage” and “En Prison” that can reduce the house edge on even-money bets to 1.35%.
Understanding the Roulette Wheel
The roulette wheel is carefully balanced with numbers arranged in a specific pattern to ensure randomness. Here’s a simplified visualization:
Roulette Bets
There are many betting options in roulette, each with different odds and payouts:
Straight Up
Bet on a single number
Payout: 35 to 1
Split
Bet on two adjacent numbers
Payout: 17 to 1
Street
Bet on three numbers in a row
Payout: 11 to 1
Corner
Bet on four numbers that meet at a corner
Payout: 8 to 1
Six Line
Bet on two adjacent rows (six numbers)
Payout: 5 to 1
Column
Bet on one of the three vertical columns
Payout: 2 to 1
Dozen
Bet on 1-12, 13-24, or 25-36
Payout: 2 to 1
Even Money Bets
Red/Black, Even/Odd, High/Low (1-18/19-36)
Payout: 1 to 1
Roulette Odds and House Edge
The house edge varies based on the roulette version:
- European Roulette: 2.7% house edge
- American Roulette: 5.26% house edge
- French Roulette: 1.35% house edge on even-money bets with special rules
Roulette Simulator
Try this simple simulator to see how the bets work:
Click on numbers to place bets (simulated)
Roulette Tips for Beginners
- Start with European roulette for better odds
- Begin with outside bets (even-money bets) as they have higher probability
- Set a budget and stick to it
- Remember that each spin is independent – there’s no “due” number
- Have fun and play responsibly
Final Thoughts
Roulette remains a timeless casino favorite because of its simplicity, elegance, and the thrill of the spinning wheel. By learning the roulette basics—understanding the types of wheels, the betting options, odds, and strategies—you can enjoy the game with confidence. Whether you play at a brick-and-mortar casino or online, remember: roulette is a game of chance. Enjoy the excitement, but always play responsibly.
