A Beginner's Guide to Roulette

When we think of classic casino games that have truly stood the test of time, it's hard to look past the sheer thrill of spinning the roulette wheel.

In fact, few casino table games can boast such a storied history compared with roulette. The classic version of the game as we know it today was first devised in 18th century France, where it became a favourite pastime for players in the fledgling Parisian casino scene. Over the century that followed, the popularity of roulette spread throughout France, Germany and soon across the whole of Western Europe. It wasn't long before the game started popping up across the pond in both Canada and the United States.

Fast forward to today's modern gaming world and roulette remains one of the most popular table games played at both physical and online casinos worldwide. Keen players spend time getting to know the huge range of betting options available on the standard roulette board, rather than simply betting on the outcome of 'red or black'. It's no surprise that most people begin to develop their own personal preferences and tactics that determine the way they place their bets.

But before you dive straight into the action, it's important to be aware that there are multiple variations of the game now available to play, each differing in rules, regulations and odds of winning. Let's start off with a quick breakdown of the two main formats of the game: American and European.

The difference between American and European roulette

A standard American roulette wheel consists of 36 red and black slots, as well as two green slots numbered '0' and '00'. That's different to a standard European roulette wheel, which consists of 36 red and black slots, and just one green zero slot.

Novice players are forgiven for thinking that the difference between the American and European versions of the roulette wheel doesn't amount to much; however, it's essential to realise that even the slightest differences in odds can have a sizeable outcome on a single session playing roulette. With European roulette, the odds of winning on a 37-slot board are 37/1 and the pay-out is 35/1. The player will also receive back the amount of their initial stake. That offers better odds of winning than the 38-slot American version (38/1), though with the same 35/1 pay-out.

How much difference can one extra green zero make? Quite a lot, in fact. The accumulative house edge in American roulette means that, the more they play, a player stands to lose a lot more money in the long run. It's easy to see why most experienced players tend to opt for the European version of the game. At the end of the day, better odds is not a matter of opinion - it's an objective fact.

If you're relatively new to the casino world or only just starting to look at how roulette works, make sure you are absolutely certain of the version and odds you are playing before you start betting big. Sites like Slots of Vegas offer useful tips on other variations available to play, such as French and multiplayer roulette.

Getting to know the board

Whether you're playing an American or European board, it always pays to get a solid grasp of the various betting strategies available.

The concept of betting 'inside' is the term used to describe any bet that's placed directly on the numbers. Alternatively, a player may choose to bet 'outside', which means they are placing a bet on a designated section of the board.

Players that bet inside have the option of betting 'straight' on one specific number; a 'split' that covers two number tiles; a 'corner' that covers four numbers or by several other positions on the board that indicate a set of particular numbers.

Players that bet outside have the option of betting on one or more of the predetermined sections of the board such as 'red or black', 'odd or even', 'dozens', 'columns', '1 to 18' or '19 to 36'. In the European version of roulette, there are also three special sections known as 'voisins du zero', 'orphelins' and 'tier du cylindre'. Each of these designated areas indicates a certain range of numbers on the wheel. It's not advisable to bet on these sections without first researching exactly which numbers they cover.

Quick online tips

Given the fact that many modern players like to enjoy the thrill of roulette from the comfort of their own home, it's only natural that they want to maximise their enjoyment and chances of winning wherever possible.

Before signing up with a particular online casino, check their promotions and bonuses on offer, particularly for new customers. A quality welcome bonus could set you well on your way to winning big by giving you a few more spins of the wheel for free. Many online casinos also now offer a wide range of deposit and withdrawal options, which is perfect if you're looking to make payments using an e-wallet, third-party account or even your preferred choice of bank transfer.

Whatever you do, remember that it always pays to do your research before diving straight in with a big first bet. Happy gaming!