Roulette is arguably one of the most popular and recognizable casino games in the world. The origins of roulette can be traced back to 17th century France, but the game has since become a staple in casinos worldwide. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of roulette and provide you with a beginner’s guide on how to play the game.
History of Roulette
The word ‘roulette’ is derived from the French word meaning ‘little wheel’. It is believed that the game was invented by French mathematician Blaise Pascal in the 17th century while he was trying to create a perpetual motion machine. However, the game as we know it today is said to have been developed by two Frenchmen named Francois and Louis Blanc in the 1800s.
Roulette quickly gained popularity in Europe and was introduced to America in the 19th century. The American version of the game features an additional double zero pocket on the roulette wheel, increasing the house edge and making it more challenging for players to win.
How to Play Roulette
Roulette is a game of chance where players bet on where a ball will land on a spinning wheel. The roulette wheel is divided into numbered slots, with the American version containing 38 slots (1-36, 0, and 00) and the European version containing 37 slots (1-36 and 0).
To play roulette, you must first purchase chips from the dealer. Each player is given a different color of chips to avoid confusion. Once everyone has placed their bets, the dealer spins the wheel and drops a ball onto it. Players can continue to place their bets while the wheel is spinning. When the ball finally comes to rest on a numbered slot, the dealer will mark the winning number on the table and pay out the winnings to those who have bet on that number.
There are two main types of bets in roulette - inside and outside bets. Inside bets involve betting on specific numbers or groups of numbers, while outside bets involve betting on larger groups of numbers or characteristics such as color or odd/even. Let’s take a closer look at each type of bet.
Inside Bets
Straight Up - A bet on a single number. Payout is 35 to 1.
Split - A bet on two adjacent numbers. Chips are placed on the line between the two numbers. Payout is 17 to 1.
Street - A bet on three numbers in a row. Chips are placed at the end of the row. Payout is 11 to 1.
Corner - A bet on four numbers that form a square. Chips are placed at the intersection of the four numbers. Payout is 8 to 1.
Line - A bet on six numbers from two adjacent rows. Chips are placed at the end of the two rows. Payout is 5 to 1.
Outside Bets
Red/Black - A bet on either red or black. Payout is even money.
Even/Odd - A bet on either even or odd numbers. Payout is even money.
High/Low - A bet on either high (19-36) or low (1-18) numbers. Payout is even money.
Columns - A bet on one of the three columns of numbers on the table. Payout is 2 to 1.
Dozens - A bet on one of the three groups of 12 numbers. Payout is 2 to 1.
Tips for Playing Roulette
Roulette is a game of chance, and there is no surefire way to win. However, there are a few tips you can follow to increase your chances of winning:
Stick to even money bets (red/black, odd/even, high/low) to improve your chances of winning.
Set a budget before you start playing and don’t exceed it.
Understand the odds before placing your bets.
Play the European version of the game if possible, as it has a lower house edge than the American version.
Conclusion
Roulette is a classic casino game that is enjoyed by players of all skill levels. While it may seem daunting at first, it is actually quite simple to understand and play. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of winning at the roulette table. So, the next time you’re at the casino, give roulette a spin and see if Lady Luck is on your side.