Roullete, also known as roulette, is a casino game in which players wager on a single number or various groups of numbers. Each bet type offers different odds of winning and has a distinct payout structure. These bets are generally categorized as either inside or outside.
Despite its simplicity, roulette has become one of the most popular casino games worldwide and can be played at land-based casinos and online. Many people are under the impression that this game is purely chance, but there is a certain level of strategy involved. With the right strategy, a player can increase their chances of winning and minimize their losses.
While there are many theories about the origin of roulette, most believe that it was invented in 17th century France by the French physicist Blaise Pascal as part of his attempts to create a wheel that could demonstrate perpetual motion. Roulette was later adapted in the United States by gambling den operators to prevent cheating and it acquired its modern layout and rules.
The Roulette Table
Before you start playing, familiarize yourself with the table map and the betting options. Each roulette table carries a placard that describes the minimum and maximum bet amounts. Choose a table within your budget and place your chips according to the bet types available.
Outside Bets
The outside bets (called extérieurs in French) are the best bets for beginners because they cover large areas of the table. They are made by placing your chip(s) on the outer edges of the table, either on a straight line or on a corner. These bets offer the highest payout if they win, but they are more likely to lose.
There are two interesting symmetries on the European roulette wheel. The first is that all the black low numbers are on one side of the wheel, while the red high numbers are on the other. The second is that the numbers 13 and 24 form a group called the second dozen, while the rest of the numbers make up the other dozen.
The Dozens Bet is another even-money bet that covers a group of 12 numbers. It is similar to the Street Bet but the chips are placed straddled between two rows instead of on individual numbers. The payout is 2-1. If the ball lands in a 0 or 00, all outside bets will lose. The Dozens bet is a safe bet for beginners because it can yield big wins, but it can also produce some big losses.