The Basics of Roulette

When you play roulette, know how the game works before placing your bets. Essentially, a round starts after the dealer clears the table and pays the winners. Then, players can place their chips on the table until the croupier announces “No more bets!”

Bet types fall into two categories: Inside and Outside bets. Inside bets are placed on individual numbers or small groups of digits.

Origins

The origin of roulette is a mystery. While some people believe that it was invented by 17th-century French mathematician Blaise Pascal while working on a perpetual motion machine, others claim that the game originated in China and was brought to Europe by Dominican monks who traveled widely. Today, the game is a common feature of casinos and gambling houses throughout the world. The name of the game comes from the French word for “little wheel.” The game has 38 (or on European/Latin American tables 37) numbered divisions around the edge of the wheel, and players place bets by placing chips on a betting mat. There are also a number of variants of the game that use different wheels and layouts.

The game was likely first played in carnivals and then adapted to casino gaming.

Variations

Roulette games offer many variations, each of which offers its own unique experience. Some variants entice risk-seekers with enhanced probabilities. For example, multi-ball roulette injects excitement through dual or triple spheres circulating the customary singular wheel. This multiplies the odds of hitting desired numbers in a single spin, making it easier for players to match betting selections.

To maximize the fun factor of the game, select a Roulette game variant that suits your skill level and experience. Beginners should opt for games that follow the European format with a friendly house edge. Advanced players should try out variants with extra bets and special betting rules. For instance, Lightning Roulette from Evolution Gaming relies on high payout multipliers while IGT’s Triple Bonus Spin Roulette has a 1:12,000 straight bonus win.