Roulette is a casino game that has offered glamour, mystery and excitement to gamblers since the 17th century. Its rules are relatively simple, but the game offers a surprising level of depth for players who take the time to learn the game.
The game begins when players place bets on numbers, sections or colors of the wheel. The dealer, also known as a croupier, then spins the wheel and throws a ball into it. When the ball lands on one of the numbers or color groups, winning bettors are awarded according to their betting odds. These odds are calculated by multiplying the number of places a bet covers, the probability of hitting that number and the amount of the bet itself.
Bets are made by laying chips on a special betting mat, with precise placement indicating the bet type. There are 10 types of bets, ranging from 1 to 35 chips, each with different payouts and win-to-stake ratios. The highest-win-to-stake bet is a straight-up bet on a single number, which pays 35 times your stake.
Before the wheel is spun, a player can change or retract their wagers, as long as they do not interfere with any other bets. Once the spinning ball starts to slow down, the croupier will announce that “No More Bets, Please” and any bets on the table’s wagering area will no longer be able to be changed or withdrawn.
After the ball lands on a number, the dealer clears all losing bets and pays out any winning bets. Then he or she places a marker on the winning number (or winning chips), and the process repeats.
While there are many different variations of the game, European roulette is by far the most popular both at physical casinos and online. Its coveted single zero wheel and lower house edge makes it a favorite for players.
In addition to European roulette, the other major variants of the game include American and double-zero wheels. Some online casinos offer these two as well as a handful of other unique variations of the game. Regardless of which version you choose to play, the basic rules are the same. Each bet has a different payout and win-to-stake ratio, but each can provide an exciting and rewarding experience for gamblers of all skill levels.