Roulette is the classic casino game that has been bringing glamour, mystery and excitement to casinos since the 17th century. It is easy enough for beginners to enjoy, yet offers a surprising level of depth for serious bettors who understand the odds involved and how to maximize their chances of winning. The house edge is low and there are many different bets that can be placed, with some offering higher odds of success than others.
Before the ball is spun around a wheel, players place chips on the table map in specific locations that indicate their bet. Bets on individual numbers are called Inside bets and those on larger groups of numbers are called Outside bets. The exact location of the chips is important as it determines the amount of money paid out if a bet wins.
The Roulette wheel consists of a solid wooden disk slightly convex in shape. Its rim is lined with metal partitions that form thirty-six compartments numbered alternately in red and black from 1 to 36. An additional green compartment is numbered 0 on European wheels and two on American ones.
A croupier spins the ball around the wheel and it eventually comes to rest in one of the compartments. The croupier then announces the number and pays or collects the winning bets. The house takes 2.70% of all even-money bets if the “La Partage” rule is in effect. Otherwise it is 1.35%.
There are a number of ways to win at Roulette, from simple luck to intricate systems designed to beat the maths. But a few things should be kept in mind:
First and foremost, always play within your budget. Each table carries a placard that describes the minimum and maximum bets allowed. Choose a table that allows you to play multiple games without going over your bankroll, and make sure the minimum bet is large enough to cover any losses. You can also set a maximum betting limit before you start playing, and stick to it. This will prevent you from getting too greedy and losing your hard-earned cash. In addition, be sure to tip the dealer if you win. The average tip is 5% of your total profit, but you should do whatever is comfortable for you.