Roulette is a casino game where players place bets on a number, various groupings of numbers, whether the number is odd or even, if the color is red or black, and so forth. A croupier spins a wheel that has numbered pockets ranging from 0 to 36; on some American tables, there’s also a “00.” The roulette ball eventually settles in one of the compartments where bets have been placed. Depending on the bet, the player can win a large amount of money.
The Game
There are many different strategies for playing roulette, but they all boil down to luck in the end. Some bets are more likely to hit than others, but the important thing is to be patient and walk away when you’re ahead. Generally, you should start by placing bets on outside bets—groupings of numbers instead of individual digits—because they’re cheaper and more likely to hit.
The Roulette Wheel
Before you begin playing, you must purchase a roulette chip from the dealer—or “croupier.” These chips come in a variety of denominations and are typically a color to signify their value. Each player should get a different color, so it’s easy to distinguish who is betting what. The croupier will then announce that the table is open for bets and throw the ball onto the spinning wheel.
Once the ball has settled, the croupier will mark the winning number and announce the payouts. The payouts for inside bets are much higher, but the chances of winning are lower. Outside bets are a good option for new players because they’re safer and offer a greater chance of winning, but still have a decent payout.
The Dozens Bet (Passe et Manque in French)
This bet is made by putting your chips in one of the three dozens on the layout—the first 12, the second, or the third. If the winning number is in any of those dozens, you win. Otherwise, you lose. The odds of winning this bet are 2-1. Like other even-money bets, this bet pays out 1-1.