The Basics of Roulette

Players place their chips on a roulette table. The table is divided into different areas that correspond to different types of wagers. These wagers can be placed on a single number, a group of numbers, or a color. They can also be combined to make balanced bets such as columns and dozens.

Origins

While some people may think that roulette only existed in Las Vegas, the game has a long and rich history. Its origins are a bit unclear, but most historians believe that it was invented by 17th-century French mathematician Blaise Pascal. He developed the game in 1655 while attempting to produce the first perpetual motion machine.

Although his mission failed, he did develop a wheel that contained 38 (or, on modern European/Latin American tables, 37) pockets and allowed players to bet on whether the ball would land in an even or odd number. Roulette became popular in Europe and eventually made its way to America. During the gold rush of the early 1900s, roulette was played in crude makeshift gambling dens and later became a mainstay in Las Vegas casinos.

Variations

There are many variations of Roulette, each with unique characteristics that affect gameplay. For example, multi-ball roulette injects excitement through dual or triple spheres circulating the customary singular wheel, boosting odds of hitting desired figures in one spin. It is a popular variation that entices risk-seekers craving animated experiences, but it can also complicate strategy.

Choosing the right roulette variant depends on your experience and skill level. For beginners, it is best to stick with the classic European format that offers a friendly house edge. Other popular roulette game variants include Double Ball Roulette, which offers a different payout structure and the option to collect bonus payouts.