Roulette is perhaps the oldest, most classic casino game, which emerged in France during the late 18th century and found its place within casinos from across the world. In its most classic form, it challenges players against the house by wagering on where the ball lands within its famous wheel. Roulette easily made the transition onto an online platform in the 1990s while retaining its class appeal. In roulette, Kiwi players find a brilliant combination of simplicity, suspense, and variety in betting. With loads of strategies, roulette is a test of luck and skill that can be endlessly entertaining and accessed 24/7 in the digital world.
The Basics of Roulette
The main idea of roulette is to predict where the ball will fall when the wheel is spun. A player can place a bet on one number, combinations of numbers, and categories like even odd bet and/or red/black. The wheel contains numbered slots from 1 to 36, plus 0 and 00 in the American roulette version. The numbers around the rim of the wheel are coloured red and black, and 0 and 00 are marked in green.
Each round starts when players place their bets on the table layout. Bets differ inside and outside. Inside bets are put on numbers directly, which are better in payouts, yet low in probability of a hit. Outside bets cover the categories of numbers and are lower in payouts, yet higher in your chances of winning.
Once the time for betting elapses, the croupier spins the wheel and throws the ball. Once the ball stops in a numbered pocket, the bets that have been placed either on the number or the category win. Losing bets are forfeited. Payment is done by the set payable odds of the placed type of bet. Players then get ready to play the next round by making new bets to guess the winning number/category.
This combines with the variety of choices regarding bets to make the game dynamic quite exciting and quick. Roulette is a game that rewards players who can master the selection of bets, bankroll management, and coping with good or bad rounds.
Roulette Wheel and Table Layout
Looking at the attributes of a roulette wheel, the numbers are placed in separate slots. When the wheel is spun, the slots determine the winning number. Numbers 1 to 36 are placed in alternating colours, which are red and black. Numbers 0 and 00 are coloured green for American wheels.
The sequence and number of slots differ between wheel types:
- American wheels have 38 slots – 1-36, plus 0 and 00.
- European wheels have 37 slots – 1-36 and a single 0.
- French wheels use the European 37 slot layout.
The extra 00 slot on American wheels gives the house a higher 5.26% edge on even-money bets compared to 2.7% with the single 0 European wheel.
Surrounding the wheel is the betting layout – a table with a grid of numbers and additional sectors for the various bet types. Players can make inside bets directly on numbers or outside bets covering groups of numbers.
The inside betting area displays each number as a box with surrounding boxes for split/street/corner and other number combination bets. The outside betting section has boxes for colour bets, dozens, columns, and odd/even.
The Role of the Croupier in Live Roulette
With respect to live roulette games, this croupier has the following key roles:
- Rotates the wheel and the ball with enough speed and variation in order to produce random results. It has to be an adequate rotation of the ball/wheel.
- Receives and places players’ bets within the time limits set for a specific time prior to every new spin. Several bets are placed and have to be handled quite fast by croupiers.
- Announces the ‘No More Bets’ when the time expires and introduces the ball.
- Calling the winning numbers and settling all winning bets either in chips or cash.
- Resolving any disputes at the time of play that may arise about a bet or payout. The croupier has final authority with regard to table matters.
- Engage players by using chatter to maintain an upbeat atmosphere in gaming.
Professional croupiers have skills in spinning the wheel and releasing the ball with elegance while managing the bets that are placed with ease and efficiency. Their work requires multitasking efficiently with tact in customer service. A good croupier would oversee fairness in the game, regulate the tempo of the playing of the game, and keep the interest of the players going. In this regard, the croupier becomes vital for any real and interactive live online roulette experience.
Types of Roulette Games
Though the classic form of roulette is popular, over the years casinos developed many innovative versions to keep players interested. Each has its rules and strategies.
American Roulette
The name itself denotes that the wheel used in this game is the American wheel, comprising 38 numbered slots, from 1-36, 0, and 00. This additional 00 pocket increases the house edge of American roulette to 5.26% on all bets against European roulette. Furthermore, the different placement of 00 opposite the 0 alters the strategy followed with the betting layout.
European Roulette
This widely played format uses the original French roulette wheel with just a single 0 slot for 37 total numbers. The absence of the 00 found in American wheels lowers the house edge to a more favourable 2.7% on all bets. For this reason, European roulette tends to attract more seasoned players looking for better payouts over extended play. European tables are a staple at casinos worldwide.
French Roulette
French roulette utilises the European single-zero wheel but incorporates two unique rules:
La Partage – If the ball lands on 0, half the bet of all even money wagers is returned to players. This further reduces the 2.7% house edge.
En Prison – When the ball lands on 0, even money bets can be left ‘imprisoned’ for the next spin. If these bets win on the following spin, the original wager is fully refunded.
These rules make French roulette amongst the most advantageous versions for players. The game also permits special called bets adding more dynamism.
Other Roulette Variants
To spice up traditional roulette, online and land casinos have introduced newer versions:
- Multi-wheel roulette – Play on up to 8 wheels simultaneously for more betting options per spin.
- Multi-ball roulette – Two or more balls are added to one wheel, creating multiple winning numbers per spin.
- Double Bonus Spin Roulette – Bonus wheel activated under certain conditions for a chance at extra payouts.
- 100/1 Roulette – Side bet option with a huge 100:1 payout for picking 12 numbers correctly.
- Lightning Roulette – Random “lightning” strikes on numbers can trigger big payout boosts up to 500:1.
These modern takes on classic roulette introduce creative new dynamics into the game while retaining the essential wheel, ball, and betting elements.
What is the difference between Multi-Wheel and Multi-Ball Roulette
Multi-wheel roulette and multi-ball roulette are two interesting but less popular variants. Each adds complexity to classic roulette in a different manner. If players can understand how multiple wheels or multiple balls can affect game dynamics and the betting strategy, they will be in a better position to tell whether these options offer an attractive twist.
Multi-Wheel Roulette
In Multi-wheel roulette, 2 to 8 different roulette wheels are played simultaneously. The player can make one bet covering all of the active wheels. Each wheel spins independently, which considerably increases the number of possible outcomes as more wheels are used. This creates many more possibilities to bet and a higher winning frequency for each round, while adding more variance with every additional wheel in use.
Multi-Ball Roulette
In Multi-Ball Roulette, two or more balls are spun on the same wheel in each gaming round. Multiple balls are in motion in different patterns before they land randomly across wheel pockets. More balls in motion mean an increased number of potential winning outcomes on every spin. This provides more winning opportunities and frequency, but usually results in lower payouts for each individual bet. Multi-ball roulette adds complexity to the demand that a player tracks more variables per spin.
How to Play Roulette: Step-by-Step Guide
There are certain protocols and ways in which to play roulette games. For the beginner, learning the process will ensure you play effectively and learn roulette etiquette. Even for experienced players, it’s important to refresh your knowledge of proper roulette gameplay.
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1Getting StartedChoose a roulette table that fits within your comfortable betting limits and suitable rules of play. Often, free play modes go a long way in building good experience with no risk involved. Determine the portion of bankroll for this session of Roulette, based on the minimums at the table. It is advisable to be more conservative, especially when starting off.
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2Placing Your BetsOnce ready to wager, have your cash changed into differently coloured chips assigned only to you at that table. Do not touch any wagers until after the dealer announces, “No More Bets.” Place your chips on your desired numbers or betting areas of the layout before the close. Note that any inside bets or wagers have to meet the minimum table limit amounts.
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3The Spin and OutcomeTo kickstart things, the dealer spins the roulette wheel and then launches the ball in the opposite direction. Watch the ball as it bounces and finally comes to rest in a pocket as the wheel slows down. The dealer then marks the winning number and associated winning bet areas.
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4Handling Wins and LossesThe dealer collects losing bets. For winning bets, chips are left on the layout to be exchanged by the dealer for higher value chips, in accordance with the posted payout odds. Once losing, new bets may be immediately placed within the table betting limits. Withdraw chips to pocket your winnings or buy more chips to manage your bankroll as needed.
Roulette Strategies
Having a thoughtful betting strategy is best for success in roulette. Approaching the game with a random approach will inevitably result in losing to the house edge over time. Players need to use smart bet selection and bankroll management to maximise wins and minimise losses.
Gambling Mathematics in Roulette
Mathematics lies at the heart of roulette strategy and analysis. One can work out the probabilities, correct odds, and house advantage, based on which a better-informed betting decision may be taken.
Probability is intended to decide the chances of any particular number, colour or category being the result of a spin. These probabilities are constant and mathematically well-defined. The probability, for instance, of a single number on a European wheel hitting is 1 in 37 because there are 37 equally possible outcomes. True odds reflect probabilities – a single number pays 35:1 as true odds are 37:1. The difference gives the house its edge. Payouts pay out less than true odds.
The house edge represents the statistical advantage favouring the casino over players long-term. On European wheels, the edge is 2.7% for single number bets but lower for outside bets. Players can leverage mathematical principles to improve their chances: Focusing on lower edge bets, using progressive systems to recoup losses, and analysing past spins for detectable patterns. While based on randomness, mathematics helps optimise the roulette strategy.
Progressive Roulette Strategies
Progressive betting strategies increase wager amounts after losses but reset to the base stake after a win. This allows players to recoup short-term losses while banking any wins. However, a long losing streak can quickly ramp up bets to dangerous risk levels.
Martingale Strategy
Martingale’s bottom line is to double up on the bets after every loss. Theoretically, this system will recover losses and ensure an overall profit if the player happens to win. A typical Martingale pattern would be $5, $10, $20, $40. The risk is hitting the table limit before a winning spin.
Grand Martingale
The Grand Martingale takes more aggressive bet progressions, with a doubling bet after losses while also adding one base unit. Using the same $5 base bet, the sequence would be $5, $15, $35, and $75. This increases potential profits but also the risk of ruin.
Fibonacci Strategy
This system utilises the Fibonacci sequence (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, etc) to determine bet increments after losses. Bets increase but at a slower rate than in traditional Martingale thus offering greater protection against long losing runs. Profits accumulate more slowly, as well.
Non-Progressive Roulette Strategies
Non-progressive systems neither increase nor decrease the size of a bet depending on previous losses or wins. Bets may be constant or change randomly without having an impact on the subsequent wagers. As such, these strategies are much more predictable and with lower volatility.
D’Alembert Strategy
The D’Alembert uses flat betting with incremental bet increases after a loss (1 unit) and decreases after a win (1 unit). This aims to keep variance minimal while steadily accumulating small profits. Ideal for players with a moderate risk appetite.
Andrucci Strategy
This strategy leverages assumed biases in roulette outcomes. Bets focus on “hot” sections of the wheel that have hit frequently. The Andrucci system is highly speculative but can deliver big rewards if number clusters emerge. Highly risky.
James Bond Strategy
Made famous in the Bond novels, this system covers over 2/3 of the wheel. It spreads bets across 17 numbers including high low bet strings, plus 0. Provides solid coverage but requires a medium-sized bankroll to sustain.
Paroli Strategy
The Paroli uses a “let it ride” positive progression. Bets increase after every win while resetting after a loss. Allows capitalising on win streaks. The Paroli offers lower volatility for those looking to minimise risk.
Advanced Roulette Strategies
While basic roulette strategies focus on bet selection and progression systems, more advanced approaches leverage mathematical and statistical principles to try to gain an extra edge. Here are some key considerations for using advanced roulette strategies:
How to Choose the Right Roulette Strategy for You
Choosing and customising the best strategy aligned to your budget, temperament, and playing habits will maximise your edge. Testing, tracking results, and staying flexible to change course are key to long-term roulette success. Here are some factors to consider:
Assess your bankroll – This is the common consideration of the total capital you have at your disposal and are comfortable exposing to a risk. Hence, it will give you viable strategies based on bet sizing and progression options. More conservative budgets suit low-risk strategies.
Know your risk tolerance – How much variance in returns are you willing to withstand? Lower volatility strategies are best for those wanting steady results. Aggressive progression systems suit thrill seekers despite potential wider swings.
Analyse your playing style – Those who frequently play roulette can use low-risk strategies over a high number of hands, while casual players in short sessions may have to speculate more and make a profit as soon as possible with limited time.
Test strategies with play money – A good idea is first to try your hand at some play modes where you don’t necessarily bet any real money. In this case, you can feel the pros and cons of your strategy before investing real money in it.
Track performance – Monitor your win/loss outcome over time, searching for any patterns that help or hinder you. That is helpful for the optimization of strategy.
Be adaptable – If current strategies are struggling, be prepared to switch systems mid-session if needed. Adapting to table dynamics gives the best chance of success.
Types of Roulette Bets
In roulette, several types of bets are possible; each of these has its payout odds and house edge. The two broad categories in which the bets come are inside and outside bets. Inside bets are those placed on particular numbers and include straight-up, split, street, corner, and line bets. Although these offer higher payouts, the house edge stands higher. Outside bets go on the outside of the layout and are usually more general in their nature, such as bet on red, bet on black, odd/even, 1-18/19-36. Here, the payout is quite a bit lower, but the house edge is correspondingly reduced.
House edge is the mathematical edge of the casino over the players in the long run. It can be calculated with every type of bet depending on the odds of payout versus the true odds. An example would be that the house edge for a straight-up bet is 2.7% on European wheels, while for even money red/black bets, it is only 1.35%. It’s one of the means of diminishing the house edge – to make the bulk of your bets outside, where the edge is way less. But still, the core of roulette is the element of chance, and whatever type of bet you place, the house has its built-in edge. Proper bankroll management and using a thoughtful strategy remain very important.
Roulette Betting Limits
Table limits determine the range of minimum and maximum bets. That influences possible betting strategies or the progression system you decide to use. Smaller minimums enable players with smaller bankrolls to try more aggressive progressions, such as Martingale. High maximums give more space for increasing stakes faster. More conservative minimums go well with non-progressive strategies.
Inside Bets
Inside bets are placed on particular numbers and, respectively, pay more. Still, the house edge is higher when inside bets are considered. They are more risky but bring more potential wins. Inside bets include:
Outside Bets
Outside bets are placed on groups of numbers and have lower payouts, but the house edge is also lower. These bets offer better long-term profit potential. Outside bets include:
Special Bets in Roulette
In addition to the common inside and outside bets, some roulette variants allow special or call bets. These involve betting on specific number combinations or segments of the wheel.
Five Number Bet (Basket Bet)
This bet covers 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3 on American double zero wheels. The payout is 6:1 despite the true winning odds being 38:5. This gives the bet a massive 7.89% house edge, earning it the “beast” nickname. Generally not recommended due to the disproportionately high casino advantage.
Announced and Call Bets
Popular in French roulette. Allow betting on pre-defined segments of the wheel without needing to place chips separately on each number:
- Voisins du Zero – 17 numbers around 0 including 22, 25, and neighbours.
- Tiers du Cylindre – 12 numbers opposite 0 including 27, 33, and neighbours.
- Orphelins – 8 numbers at the top not covered by other call bets.
Roulette Table Etiquette
Paying attention to proper table manners makes the game a much more enjoyable experience for all. Furthermore, it puts you in good books with the dealer and the staff in general. Remember to do the following, but not limited to:
- Remain calm – Avoid excessive celebrations after big wins or anger after losses. Keep emotions under control.
- Be respectful – Dealers and staff also have feelings; it is necessary to treat them respectfully. Do not blame them for losses or make unfair demands of them.
- Handle chips properly – Always place chips on the felt neatly and never throw chips.
- Pay attention – Attend to the game at hand, and don’t get overly sideways-wrapped-up chatting or on your phone.
- Tipping accordingly – When you get a big win, it is common to tip the dealer. Follow recommended guidelines in regard to tipping.
- Going on breaks – If leaving for a long period, then inform the dealer and colour up chips.
- Avoid confrontation – Never argue with either the dealer or any of your fellow players at the table. If you feel it is necessary to act, call for help immediately.
Roulette Tips for Beginners
Roulette may be considered one of those intimidating table games, but, in reality, it is quite easy to learn. Some general tips about strategy, bankroll management, and etiquette get new players up to speed with the basics in no time and help them enjoy smooth gameplay. Approach roulette as what it is – a fun betting game based on randomness. Armed with a few essential tips, however, it’s possible for the beginner to avoid many of the usual traps and get the most out of the wheel. Here are some easy strategies for first-time players.
Easy Strategies for First-Time Players
The simpler outside bets, like red/black, odd/even, or low/high even money bets, are far less complicated and a good starting point for new players. They all require the correct prediction of only one colour, parity, or number range. Minor complexity combined with a small house advantage makes them easy to pick up for a beginner and start playing comfortably.
Balancing Risk and Reward in Roulette
It’s all about risk versus reward when it comes to roulette. A conservative player would be best placing outside even money bets, where the risk is at its lowest. For the more aggressive player, inside bets such as splits and corner bet covers should be used sparingly in an effort to attain bigger payouts. Proper bankroll management and adaptation of specific strategies according to risk tolerance are very important
How to Handle Winning and Losing Streaks
Roulette will eventually even itself out by producing hot and cold winning and losing streaks. Always keep your head up and never go on some wild betting spree in an attempt to recover from your loss. On the other hand, do not get too greedy if you start to win. You may want to leave the table after extended hot or cold winning and losing streaks and collect your thoughts. After all, knowing when to walk away is key in this game.
How to Maximise Your Roulette Experience
Maximise bonuses and promotions that members receive from the casino in order to have more playing time and fun. Understanding the odds and basics of the games will help you to make informed decisions in your betting. Set time, session, and loss limits. Focus on the entertainment value; don’t look at it as a life-changing pot.
Other Common Mistakes to Avoid
Remember that each spin is independent. Never bet more than you can afford to lose. Don’t be taken in by the betting systems that say they can help you beat the house over the long term. The house always has its mathematical edge when it comes to roulette.
Common Misconceptions About Roulette
Roulette is a completely random game without “hot” or “cold” runs of the outcome. No strategy will ever overcome the house edge over any long period. The odds of the game do not change based on previous results or the frequency of numbers, and each number holds precisely a 1 in 37 (European) or 1 in 38 (American) chance with every spin.
Online Roulette vs. Live Roulette
The rise of online casinos has given players the option of choosing between live dealer roulette, streaming it from a real table, and online roulette. While both will give you an opportunity to win real money, there are a few differences between these two.
Online Roulette
Online roulette is an electronic game utilising a random number generator to create the layout of the roulette wheel, the spinning and ball physics.
Some of the major advantages and downfalls of online roulette include:
Pros
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Ease/accessibility to play at home
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More game options
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Faster games and the ability to play more than one table
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Lower minimum bet requirements
Cons
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Not all the sights and sounds of a live casino
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Less social interaction
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Dependence on internet and device hardware can result in technical failure
Live Roulette
Live roulette is played in real time, with an actual human spinning an actual wheel via a live video feed.
Main pros and cons:
Pros
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Provides much of the excitement a real casino can offer
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More social interaction
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A chance to actually see the wheel and ball in action
Cons
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The pace of gameplay is about half as fast
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Players cannot play more than one table at a time
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Minimum bets are usually higher