Roulette – The Basic Information: Rules, Bets, and Tips for Beginners
Roulette is one of the most popular and exciting casino games worldwide. With its spinning wheel, colorful betting options, and simple rules, it attracts both beginners and seasoned gamblers alike. Whether you’re playing at a land-based casino or trying your luck at online roulette, understanding the basics is crucial for a fun and successful experience.
This guide covers all the basic information about roulette, including how to play roulette, different types of bets, odds and payouts, and essential tips for beginners.
1. What is Roulette?
Roulette is a classic casino game that originated in France in the 17th century. The word “roulette” means “little wheel” in French. The game involves a spinning wheel with numbered pockets and a small ball. Players place bets on where they think the ball will land.
Objective of the Game
The goal of roulette is to predict the winning number or group of numbers on which the ball will land. Bets can be placed on:
- Single numbers (e.g., 7 or 28)
- Groups of numbers (e.g., 1-12, Odd/Even)
- Colors (Red or Black)
Types of Roulette Games
There are three main types of roulette:
| Roulette Variant | Number of Zeros | House Edge | Best for Players? |
|---|---|---|---|
| European Roulette | 1 Zero (0) | 2.7% | ✅ Best Choice |
| French Roulette | 1 Zero (0) + La Partage Rule | 1.35% on even-money bets | ✅✅ Lowest House Edge |
| American Roulette | 2 Zeros (0 and 00) | 5.26% | ❌ Worst Odds |
Quick Tip:
💡 For better winning chances, always choose European or French Roulette over American Roulette due to the lower house edge.
2. How to Play Roulette: Basic Rules
Step-by-Step Guide to Playing Roulette
- Place Your Bets: Players place chips on the betting table to indicate their wagers.
- No More Bets: The dealer spins the wheel in one direction and rolls the ball in the opposite direction.
- Ball Lands on a Number: The ball settles in a numbered pocket.
- Winning Number Announced: The dealer announces the winning number and color.
- Payouts and Collection: Winning bets are paid out, and losing bets are collected by the dealer.
Roulette Table Layout
The roulette table consists of:
- Numbered Grid: Numbers 1 to 36 arranged in three columns and twelve rows.
- Zero Pocket: Single Zero (0) in European and French Roulette or Double Zero (00) in American Roulette.
- Betting Areas: For placing inside bets and outside bets.
Quick Tip:
💡 Learn the roulette table layout to place bets confidently and avoid betting mistakes.
3. Types of Roulette Bets
Roulette offers a variety of betting options with different odds and payouts. The bets are divided into Inside Bets, Outside Bets, and Special Announced Bets.
Inside Bets (Higher Payouts, Lower Probability)
Inside bets are placed on specific numbers or small groups of numbers on the grid. These bets have higher payouts but lower chances of winning.
| Bet Name | Covers | Payout | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Straight-Up Bet | 1 Number | 35:1 | Bet on 17 |
| Split Bet | 2 Adjacent Numbers | 17:1 | Bet on 7 and 10 |
| Street Bet | 3 Numbers in a Row | 11:1 | Bet on 1, 2, and 3 |
| Corner Bet (Square Bet) | 4 Numbers in a Square | 8:1 | Bet on 11, 12, 14, and 15 |
| Six Line Bet (Double Street) | 6 Numbers (Two Rows) | 5:1 | Bet on 4-9 |
Quick Tip:
💡 Inside bets offer higher payouts, but the probability of winning is lower. Use them strategically!
Outside Bets (Lower Payouts, Higher Probability)
Outside bets cover larger groups of numbers, offering higher chances of winning but lower payouts.
| Bet Name | Covers | Payout | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red or Black | All Red or All Black Numbers | 1:1 | Bet on Red |
| Odd or Even | All Odd or All Even Numbers | 1:1 | Bet on Odd |
| High or Low | 1-18 (Low) or 19-36 (High) | 1:1 | Bet on 1-18 |
| Dozen Bet | 12 Numbers (1-12, 13-24, 25-36) | 2:1 | Bet on 1-12 |
| Column Bet | One of 3 Vertical Columns | 2:1 | Bet on the 1st Column |
Quick Tip:
💡 Outside bets are safer and have a higher probability of winning. They are great for beginners!
Announced Bets (French and European Roulette Only)
Announced bets are special betting combinations on the roulette wheel, popular in French and European Roulette.
| Bet Name | Covers | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Voisins du Zéro (Neighbors of Zero) | 17 Numbers around Zero | 22, 18, 29, 7, 28… |
| Tiers du Cylindre (Third of the Wheel) | 12 Numbers Opposite Zero | 27, 13, 36, 11… |
| Orphelins (Orphans) | 8 Remaining Numbers | 1, 6, 9, 14… |
| Neighbors Bet | 5 Numbers (Chosen Number + 2 Neighbors) | Bet on 8 and its neighbors |
4. Roulette Odds and Payouts
Knowing the odds and payouts is crucial for making informed betting decisions.
Best Odds in Roulette:
- Even-Money Bets (Red/Black, Odd/Even, High/Low): ~48.6% in European, ~47.4% in American Roulette.
Worst Odds in Roulette:
- Straight-Up Bet (Single Number): ~2.7% in European, ~2.63% in American Roulette, but pays 35:1.
Quick Tip:
💡 Even-money bets are the safest with the best chances of winning. Great for beginners!
5. Essential Roulette Tips for Beginners
- ✅ Choose European or French Roulette for the lowest house edge.
- ✅ Stick to even-money bets (Red/Black, Odd/Even, High/Low) for better odds.
- ✅ Manage your bankroll wisely and set a budget limit.
- ✅ Avoid chasing losses and maintain emotional control.
- ✅ Practice with free roulette games before playing with real money.
Quick Tip:
💡 The key to winning in roulette is to play smart, manage your bankroll, and understand the odds.
Final Thoughts: Why Play Roulette?
Roulette is a fun and exciting casino game that offers a perfect balance of luck and strategy. By understanding the basic rules, betting options, and odds, you can maximize your chances of winning and have an enjoyable gaming experience.
🎰 Ready to try your luck? Spin the wheel and may the odds be in your favor! 🍀