Roulette is a game of chance, but it can also be a very rewarding game if you master the odds and bet types. Even-money propositions (such as the Dozens bet or a Straight) offer a lower house edge and la partage rules that return your original bet if the ball lands on 0.
Players place their chips on the table until the croupier announces “No more bets.” Each player buys roulette chips at a specific denomination.
Origin
Despite the fact that roulette is a very popular game, it is still hard to know its exact origin. However, there are some theories that imply that the game originated in 18th century France. Blaise Pascal’s attempt to create a perpetual motion machine is said to be the inspiration for the roulette wheel, which later became a staple in Paris gambling houses. The wheels were numbered with red and black pockets, and the rules for placing bets on the game were very similar to those found today.
Other theories suggest that the game was created by Roman soldiers, who played a similar game with shields that had symbols on them. The game may also have been spread by Dominican monks, who taught the game to people as they travelled throughout Europe and Asia.
Variations
Roulette is available in many different variations, with some containing additional betting rules and special bets. The most popular variation is European Roulette, which has only one zero, making it a simpler game to play and offers lower house edge odds. Other variations of the game include French Roulette, which includes the En Prison and La Partage rules to further lower the house edge. Choosing the right variant for you depends on your skill level and experience, as well as your preferences in terms of payouts and basic betting options.
Bets
The roulette table offers a number of betting options for players, ranging from the classic Street bet (which pays 11 to 1) to the more risky Split Bet (or cheval in French) where players place their chips to straddle a line between two numbers on the layout. Other popular bets include the Dozens and Columns, both of which cover 12 numbers in groups. Outside bets are also available, which pay 2-1. These bets cover a group of numbers, rather than specific ones, and are often easier for new players to understand. They are also generally considered safer plays than inside bets, which can have a higher payout but are less likely to win.