Roullete is a simple, yet intriguing game of chance that brings excitement to the casino. The game has been popular with players since its inception in the 17th century, and is now found in casinos worldwide. It’s easy enough for beginners to understand, but offers a surprising amount of depth for those who wish to pursue a strategy.
The game is played on a circular table with a spinning wheel in the center. A small ball is released in the opposite direction of the wheel, and bets are placed on which numbered compartment it will land as it comes to rest. Each bet has a different payoff, depending on the odds. The game originated in Europe, and the rules of play have been standardized since the 18th century.
A croupier, who is also the dealer, spins the wheel and pushes a small disk with holes in it to mark the numbers. The numbering on the disk is randomized, so that every other number is either red or black. There are thirty-six colored compartments, which are called “canoes” by roulette croupiers, grouped in three sets of twelve numbers each (a total of six dozen bets). The numbers on European wheels alternate between red and black, while the American wheel has two green compartments labeled 0 and 00.
Roulette was derived from older games hoca and portique, and its current layout and wheel structure were developed in the 18th century. It became the most popular of all casino games in Europe, and quickly spread to gambling dens and gaming houses in the United States. The American version of the game grew out of the European one, with modifications made to prevent cheating by players and dealers.
Each roulette table carries a placard that describes the minimum and maximum bets allowed. Set a budget before you hit the tables, and choose a table within your limit. Then, start with the outer bets — they’re cheaper and have a higher payout if you win. Avoid betting large sums on the inside bets, which have lower payouts. Also, don’t be tempted to watch other players, hoping that they know something you don’t. That won’t improve your odds more than random chance will.