The Basics of Roulette
Roulette is one of the most popular casino table games in both physical and online casinos. It’s a fast-paced game with many different betting options that both beginners and advanced players can enjoy. Despite the fact that it’s relatively easy to learn, there are a few key things that players need to keep in mind in order to increase their chances of winning.
The Roulette wheel consists of a solid wooden disk slightly convex in shape with a series of compartments around its circumference. Thirty-six of these are painted alternately red and black, while two green compartments on American-style wheels carry the numbers 0 and 00. A croupier spins the wheel and a small ball is thrown in the opposite direction, swirling and bouncing around until it settles on a number. If a player has bet on that particular number, section or color they win.
Before the ball is tossed, players make their bets. They may choose to place their chips on a single number, various groupings of numbers, or the colors of red and black, odd or even, or high or low (1-18). There are also bets that combine multiple categories such as column (a bet on any of the three ’12’ sections of the Roulette felt), or the first, second, and third dozen.
Once the bets are placed, the croupier will spin the wheel. When it stops, the ball will land on a number and if the player has bet on that number or grouping, they will win. The winning bets are then paid according to their odds.
The most popular Roulette variant is European roulette which has a lower house edge than the American version. This is why it’s recommended for novice players to play this variation since it offers a much higher chance of winning.