Roullete, or simply roulette, is a game of chance played with a small ball that spins around a numbered wheel. Players place bets concerning which red or black numbered compartment the ball will enter as it comes to rest. Bets are placed on a table, and pay out at different odds depending on the bet type. The game has a high house edge and is often associated with glamour, mystery, and excitement.
The wheel consists of thirty-six numbered pockets, alternating between black and red, except for the 0 (and 00 on American wheels) which is green. A croupier spins the wheel, and a small white ball is sent spinning through a series of slots until it lands in one. The croupier then places bets on the table, correlating to the number slots the ball can possibly land in.
Each numbered pocket has its own color, and the table map displays all of them. Besides the individual numbers, there are also groups of three consecutive numbers (called streets in French) and rows of three or more even or odd numbers. A single chip is placed on the end of a row to make a street bet, while a double bet (called a carré in French) is made by placing two chips on either side of a line between three numbers to form a triangle. Both bets pay 17-1 if the triangle wins.
While some gamblers swear by complex systems of betting and predicting the outcome, the basic rules of roulette are easy to learn and understand. The first step is to determine how much you want to bet, as the minimum and maximum bets are posted on a placard on each table. Once you’ve settled on a wager, the dealer will give you coloured chips matching your value.
Choosing the right bets is the key to success at roulette. Outside bets have a lower house edge, but they don’t pay as well as inside bets. Choose a bet that fits your budget, and don’t forget to set a break point. Then, enjoy the game and don’t lose sight of your bankroll.