Roullete is a classic casino game that can be played just about anywhere there’s a table. It’s easy enough for beginners to understand and enjoy, but has plenty of betting options to keep experienced players interested. Here’s what you need to know about this fast-paced game that has some of the highest payouts in a casino.
Originally, roulette was played in illegal gambling dens and casinos throughout Europe with a double-zero wheel. In 1843, however, brothers Louis and Francois Blanc introduced a single-zero pocket to the wheel, and the new format soon gained massive popularity with gamblers across France. The game spread expeditiously and is now a worldwide favorite among casino players.
Roulette consists of a spinning wheel that has thirty-six red and black compartments, plus two green pockets labeled 0 and 00. The wheel is surrounded by a stationary bowl with a spindle that supports the rotating wheelhead. The bowl is painted dark red, and the wheelhead a shiny silver.
When the game starts, the croupier will clear away any losing bets and then roll a ball into the spinning wheel. After the ball stops, winning bets are paid out according to their odds. The house edge is based on the fact that the ball will land in one of the pockets marked with a number, and not in the red or black ones. Outside bets are wagers on a category of numbers (such as high-low, odd-even, first, second, or third dozen) and have a lower house edge than inside bets.
While some players like to watch the other gamblers and try to pick up on their subconscious actions, this will only improve your odds of winning by a coincidence. It’s also a good idea to stick to your budget and not dip into your winnings for future bets.
Choose a roulette table that allows you to play within your budget. Each table carries a placard that describes the minimum and maximum bets allowed. Look for tables with a $5 minimum on inside bets and $1,000 on outside bets. Those wagers tend to have a higher payout if you win, but remember that the house edge is higher for inside bets. It’s important to be aware of this before you begin playing.