No worries if you don’t know how to play roulette yet. As the world’s third most popular casino game, there’s plenty of instructional material to review. But consider this: maybe the point of the game is about more than just guessing. Perhaps there’s a method to all the madness. Let’s find out.
How to play roulette at a casino
You start playing roulette by placing bets on the table. The dealer (or croupier) then throws the ball onto a two-color spinning wheel that’s marked by numbers. Holes, or pockets, are numbered from 0 to 36 in a particular order.
Numbers 1 through 10 and 19 through 28 have red odd numbers and black even numbers. Meanwhile, slots 11 through 18 and 29 through 36 feature black odd numbers and red even numbers. It might help to write down the sequence before sitting down at a roulette table.
Why roulette is so hard to play
It’s difficult to play roulette because the game is all about luck (mostly). Winning is therefore a matter of chance. There are some physics involved as well, but most players can’t predict enough of the variables to play with absolute certainty. That’s why roulette is more popular in casinos than in homes.
Roulette bet types and statistics
Learning how to play roulette means understanding the different types of bets in the game. After buying in for chips, place your bets in one of the following ways:
- Directly on one or more numbers
- Spread over high-low, odd-even, or red-black territories
- Through another combination approved by the dealer
Keep the odds in mind when playing roulette. If you can make smart bets, your chances of winning are significantly increased. Here’s what you need to consider:
- The odds of winning with a single number bet = 2.7%.
- There’s a 5.26% chance of winning when you bet on two numbers.
- Three numbers give you a 7.89% chance of winning.
- With four numbers, you get 10.53% odds in your favor.
- The odds increase at the same rate until you reach three rows (or nine numbers).
That means placing bets on whole rows is better than placing bets on single numbers. There are no rules, though, so gamble however you want to.
Knowing how to play roulette when the stakes are high
Remember, players can place additional bets when the wheel is still spinning. Once the croupier yells, “No more bets,” it’s all over but the crying. You win the pot if the ball lands on the number, section, or color you chose. Your take depends on the rules of the house.
Play smart when the stakes are high. Spread your bet over several numbers or sections to cover as much area as possible. Win incrementally so you have more control over the stakes and suffer fewer damaging losses.
The takeaway
Honestly, roulette stresses some people out. It’s a game of chance and there’s no real way of predicting who will win. However, that’s why some people get addicted to the thrill.
Increase your chances of winning by placing well thought-out wagers. Don’t use lucky numbers or birthdays for inspiration because it doesn’t guarantee anything and it can ruin the meaning behind the number.