Roulette is a game of chance that can be fun and profitable for players who have the right knowledge. The game involves spinning a wheel with numbers and, in some cases, a 0 and a double zero (called the Logo on European tables). A croupier spins the wheel and a small white ball lands in one of the slots. The game has several bet types and payouts. Learn the rules and bet wisely to maximize your chances of winning.
A Double Street Bet
The simplest bet in roulette is the double street bet, which pays 5-1. This is placed by putting one chip on vertices that connect four adjacent numbers. This bet type is popular amongst beginners who want to avoid losing large amounts of money on the more risky outside bets.
When it comes to betting, Roulette is very similar to other casino games. Players use special colored chips to represent their bets, and they are not allowed to touch the table or the wheel until the dealer has announced, “No more bets!” This is done to prevent cheating or other advantages for players.
Players can also choose to place even-money bets on the table, which will increase their odds of winning if the ball lands in black or red. European roulette also offers the La Partage rule, which further reduces the house edge by giving players half of their even-money bets back if the ball hits zero. This helps lower the house edge from 2.70% to 1.35%.
In the United States, roulette was once played on a flat-top table with a movable wheel. It was eventually replaced by a roulette wheel that is mounted above the table, preventing any devices from being hidden inside of it or the wheel. The American game grew in popularity as gambling dens opened up westward. It was later adapted to the French style in Monte Carlo where it evolved into the modern game with a layout that is easier to see and understand.
Roulette is a simple game to play and it is easy for beginners to pick up the basics. All you need is a good understanding of the bet types, the odds and the payouts. Practice makes perfect and you’ll soon be playing like a pro!
Frank Scoblete has been involved in the gaming industry for more than forty years. He spent the ’60s getting an education; the ’70s in editing, publishing and theatre; and the ’90s and 2000s in casino gambling. He has written extensively about blackjack and other casino games, and is an authority on roulette strategy. His book, The Ultimate Roulette Guide: How to Beat the Casinos at Their Own Game, is a must-read for any casino fan. It explains everything from changing your cash into roulette chips to how gambling sessions end. He also covers the best strategies and how to develop a winning mentality at the roulette table. The book is available to buy online and in hard copy from Amazon.