Roulette, the game of choice for casino-goers all over the world, offers glamour and intrigue. Its rules are relatively simple and the game is easy to learn, but it also offers a surprising amount of depth for serious gamblers. The right betting strategy can reap high rewards.
Roullete is a game of chance that involves a revolving wheel with numbered pockets and a table for placing bets. Players place bets on which numbered compartment the ball will fall into when it comes to rest. The game originated in France in the 17th century, and its current form was developed in the 18th century. It is believed that 17th-century French physicist Blaise Pascal invented the cylinder-shaped wheel to aid in his quest for a perpetual motion machine.
A specialized form of this game, called mini roulette, is played on a smaller wheel and table than the standard version, and pays out higher odds for winning bets. It is becoming increasingly popular in casinos, especially online.
The roulette wheel consists of a solid, slightly convex wooden disk with metal separators or frets around its perimeter, and 35 to 36 (on European-style wheels) nonconsecutive black and red numbered compartments; the remaining pocket, on American wheels, is green and carries the number 0. Some casinos use a second, identically colored, green zero.
Prior to spinning the wheel, players wager on which numbered slots the ball will land in by laying chips on a betting mat. Each bet type is represented by a different color of chip, and the precise placement of these chips indicates the specific bet being made. The betting area on a European roulette table is marked in French, while that on an American one is marked in English.
After the wheel is spun, the dealer clears the losing bets from the table, and the winners are paid. Then play resumes, with new chips placed in the proper spots on the table. Players should always bet within their predetermined budget and never dip into their winnings for future bets, as this will decrease their odds of hitting.
Choosing the correct bets is essential to maximize your chances of winning, and inside bets offer the best odds. Outside bets, on the other hand, have a lower house edge and offer larger payouts. However, they can be a risky proposition, so you should only make these bets when you have a solid understanding of the game and its nuances. Also, avoid attempting to beat the house by employing complex strategies or watching other players, as this will only confuse you and possibly lead to frustration.
