Roulette is a classic casino game that has been played and enjoyed for centuries. In this guide, we’ll take a look at everything you need to know about playing roulette.
Basic Rules
The start of the game
Once the players have placed their bets, the croupier, also known as the dealer, releases a ball into the spinning roulette wheel. It is important to note that players can continue placing bets while the wheel is spinning.
While the ball is in motion, the croupier announces, “No more bets,” indicating that players are no longer permitted to place additional bets at that moment.
Eventually, the ball comes to rest on a specific number within the roulette wheel. If any players have made winning bets on that particular number, section, or colour, they will receive rewards based on the odds associated with their bets.
Next step: Types of Bets
Let’s proceed with the next step: The players exchange their money for chips or bring their own chips to the table and proceed to place their bets. They have the option to bet on various numbers or propositions:
- Inside bets involve placing chips directly on one or more specific numbers.
- Outside bets involve placing chips on specific propositions, such as high or low numbers, odd or even numbers, red or black colours, or the first, second, or third dozen, among others.
- Additionally, there are other combinations of bets that players can choose to make.
Roulette Bets
In this chapter, the different types of bets are introduced. This is a short introduction but there is much more to discover when you learn more about playing roulette in NZ.
Inside Bets
Inside bets are wagers placed directly on specific numbers or small groups of numbers on the roulette layout.
The Straight up
The Straight up or it is also known as “En Plein” (French for “Straight Up”), place your bet directly on one or more specific numbers on the layout. If the ball lands on your chosen number(s), you win with a payout of 35 to 1 for that particular number. The house edges for this bet are as follows: 5.26 percent for the American double-zero wheel and 2.70 percent for the European single-zero wheel.
Split Bet
Split bet is a betting option that is also called “A Cheval” (French for “Split Bet”), which allows you to place your chips on the line between two numbers, thereby betting on both numbers simultaneously. If either of the two numbers is the winning number, you will receive a payout of 17 to 1. The house edges for this bet are 5.26 percent for the American double-zero wheel and 2.70 percent for the single-zero European wheel.
The Street Bet, or Three Number Bet, or “Side Bet,” or the Trio
The Street Bet, or Three Number Bet, or “Side Bet,” or the Trio or in French Transversal, is a betting option. Despite the various names given to this bet, you might expect it to have an extravagant payout of thousands to one. However, it is simply a wager on three numbers. To place this bet, you place your chips on the outer border of the three numbers. If your bet wins, you receive a payout of 11 to 1. The house edge for the American double-zero wheel is 5.26 percent, while it is 2.70 percent for the single-zero European wheel.
The corner, the square, the four-number bet
In this bet, you choose four specific numbers, and your wager is placed on the intersection where all four numbers meet, forming a square. It’s quite clever that this bet is called “The Square.” If any of the four selected numbers wins, you will be rewarded at a payout of 8 to 1. The house edge for this bet is 5.26 percent on American double-zero wheels and 2.70 percent on single-zero European wheels. It is also known in French as “Carre”.
The five-number bet, or “Monster”, or “The Beast”
This bet, commonly found on American double-zero wheels, involves five numbers: 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3. If any of these numbers wins, the payout is 6 to 1. However, be prepared for a staggering house edge of 7.89 percent! If you’re inclined to bet on these five numbers, a wiser approach would be to place individual chips on each number, which would reduce the house edge to 5.26 percent.
The line bet, or six number bet, or sixline bet
The line bet, or six number bet, or sixline bet, is a wager made on a group of six consecutive numbers on the roulette layout. This bet is placed by placing chips on the outer edge of the two rows where the six numbers intersect. If any of the six numbers wins, the payout is 5 to 1. The house edge on this bet is the same as the other inside bets, which is 5.26 percent on the American double-zero wheel and 2.70 percent on the single-zero European wheel. In French, this betting option is called Sixain.
Outside proposition bets
Outside proposition bets are wagers made on various groups or characteristics of numbers on the roulette wheel. These bets are placed outside of the main number grid on the layout. Here are some common types of outside proposition bets:
- Red or Black: You bet on whether the winning number will be red or black. The payout is 1 to 1.
- Odd or Even: You bet on whether the winning number will be an odd or even number. The payout is 1 to 1.
- High or Low: You bet on whether the winning number will be in the high range (19-36) or the low range (1-18). The payout is 1 to 1.
- Dozens: You bet on whether the winning number will be in the first dozen (1-12), second dozen (13-24), or third dozen (25-36). The payout is 2 to 1.
- Columns: You bet on whether the winning number will be in the first column (1, 4, 7, 10, etc.), second column (2, 5, 8, 11, etc.), or third column (3, 6, 9, 12, etc.). The payout is 2 to 1.
- Snake Bet: This bet is made by placing chips on a specific combination of numbers resembling a snake pattern on the layout. The payout varies depending on the casino rules.
Outside proposition bets provide different betting options with varying payout odds. The house edge on these bets is typically lower than the inside bets, making them popular choices among players.
The column bet
The column bet, also known as “Colonne” in French, is a wager placed on one of the columns of numbers on the roulette layout. The objective is to predict which column will contain the winning number. To make this bet, you place your chips at the bottom of the column you believe will be the winner. If the winning number falls within your chosen column, you receive a payout of 2 to 1.
It’s important to note that the columns do not include the 0 or 00 numbers. If either of these numbers appears, the bet is considered lost. The house edge for the column bet is 5.26 percent on American double-zero wheels and 2.70 percent on single-zero European wheels.
By placing a column bet, players have the opportunity to win at a favourable payout ratio. However, it’s crucial to consider the associated house edge, which represents the statistical advantage held by the casino.
The dozens bet
The dozens bet, also referred to as “Douzaine” in French, involves predicting whether one of the three dozen of numbers on the roulette layout will be the winning number. These dozens do not consist of consecutive numbers on the wheel; they are specific groups of numbers defined by the layout. You can place this bet on the First Dozen, Second Dozen, or Third Dozen. It’s also possible to bet on two of the dozens simultaneously.
If the winning number falls within the chosen dozen, the bet pays out at a ratio of 2 to 1. However, it’s important to note that if the 0 or 00 appears, your bet will be lost. The house edge for the dozens bet is 5.26 percent on American double-zero wheels and 2.70 percent on single-zero European wheels.
When placing a dozens bet, players have the opportunity to win with a payout of double their original wager. However, it’s crucial to be aware of the house edge, which represents the statistical advantage held by the casino.
The odd or even bet
The odd or even bet, also known as “Impair et Pair” in French, involves placing a wager on either the odd or even section of the roulette layout. This bet is based on the outcome of the number that the ball lands on. The layout consists of 18 odd numbers and 18 even numbers, excluding the 0 and 00, which do not count for this bet. If the winning number falls within your chosen category, you win the bet.
A successful odd or even bet pays out at even money, which means you receive a one-to-one payout, effectively doubling your original wager. However, it’s important to note that if 0 or 00 is the winning number, the house wins and all odd or even bets are lost. The house edge for the odd or even bet is 5.26 percent on American double-zero wheels and 2.70 percent on single-zero European wheels.
When placing an odd or even bet, players have a 50% chance of winning, as there are an equal number of odd and even numbers on the roulette wheel. However, it’s essential to consider the house edge, which represents the casino’s statistical advantage over the long run.
The high or low bet
The high or low bet, known as “Passe et Manque” in French, involves placing a wager on either the 1 to 18 (low) or the 19 to 36 (high) section of the roulette layout. This bet is based on the range of numbers that the winning number will fall into. If the winning number is within your chosen range, you win the bet.
When placing a high or low bet, it’s important to note that if 0 or 00 is the winning number, the bet is lost. The payoff for a successful high or low bet is even money, which means you receive a one-to-one payout equal to your original wager. The house edge for the high or low bet is 5.26 percent on American double-zero wheels and 2.70 percent on single-zero European wheels.
With the high or low bet, players have a 50% chance of winning, as there are an equal number of numbers in the low and high range on the roulette wheel. However, it’s crucial to consider the house edge, which represents the casino’s statistical advantage over the long run.
The red or black bet
The red or black bet, known as “Rouge et Noir” in French, allows you to wager on the colour of the winning number. You can choose to bet on either red or black, and if the winning number matches your selected colour, you win the bet.
The red or black bet is an even-money bet, meaning that the payout is equal to your original wager. If you win, you receive a one-to-one payout. However, it’s important to note that if the winning number is 0 or 00, the bet is typically considered a loss.
The house edge for the red or black bet is 5.26 percent on American double-zero wheels and 2.70 percent on single-zero European wheels. This represents the casino’s statistical advantage over the long run. Keep in mind that the outcome of each spin is independent, and while the odds may favour the house, individual results can vary.
Rules of Roulette
Playing roulette may seem simple: choose a number or a proposition like red/black, place your bet, and wait for the outcome. While that captures the essence of the game, it doesn’t cover all the rules involved in playing roulette.
Rule #1: Getting Roulette Chips
When playing roulette, acquiring distinctive roulette chips is the first rule. While some casinos use different chips for roulette compared to other table games, regular chips can still be used. These roulette chips often exhibit vibrant colours. However, certain European casinos use the same chips across all games, requiring the dealers to exercise extra caution to prevent confusion among players’ bets. To obtain your roulette chips, place your money on the table during a break in the game, inform the dealer of the desired value for each chip, and receive them accordingly. This ensures your chips hold the intended value.
Rule #2: Timing your bets
Upon exchanging your cash for chips, you’ll observe a small object, often referred to as a “buck” or “puck,” on the table. This object signifies the number that was last hit. Once the dealer removes it, the betting phase commences.
Typically, players are responsible for placing their own bets. However, dealers are available to assist those who have difficulty reaching the desired betting positions.
Rule #3: How to bet that bet or those bets
Betting on a single number is straightforward—simply place your chip(s) on that number. For proposition bets like red/black, odd/even, and high/low, position your wager directly on the corresponding area. These bets yield a 1-to-1 payout.
To bet on the first, second, or third dozen or the first, second, or third column, place your wager on the respective proposition. These bets pay 2-to-1.
Here are other bet types, their placement, and their respective payouts:
- Split Bet: To bet on two adjacent numbers, position your chip(s) on the line between them. The win pays 17 units per 1 unit wagered.
- Street Bet, Three Number Bet, Side Bet, or Trio: Wager on three numbers by placing your bet on the outer border of the trio. A win results in an 11-to-1 payout.
- Corner, Square, or Four Number Bet: Bet on four numbers that form a square. Place your chips at the intersection where the four numbers meet. This bet pays 8 to 1.
- Five Number Bet: This bet covers 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3. It has the highest house edge of 7.89% and pays 6 to 1. It is also referred to as the “beast,” “monster,” or “mother-in-law.”
- Line Bet, Six Number Bet, or Sixline Bet: Wager on six numbers by placing your chips on the outside borders. A win pays 5 to 1.
Rule #4: The end of betting
Once the betting is underway, the dealer will spin the wheel. However, at a specific moment, the dealer will pass their hand over the layout and announce, “No more bets.” From that instant onward, all further wagers are prohibited.
However, there are certain players, humorously referred to as PITA’s (short for pain-in-the-as*es), who may continue to place bets despite the dealer’s announcement. In such cases, the dealer has the authority to invalidate those particular bets.
Rule #5: Players at the table
Most roulette players are pleasant individuals, and I assume you are too. However, some can be a bit (let’s put it mildly) uncivilized. Since each player places their own bets, including multiple bets on the same number or proposition, these individuals may resort to pushing and shoving others to secure their wagers. They may even disrupt chip piles, including those belonging to other players.
Fortunately, there is no need for such aggressive behaviour, as dealers provide ample time for placing bets.
You have three options:
- Politely request the aggressive individual to be more considerate when placing their bets, as they have been causing chip spillages and occasionally disturbing others. However, they may grumble and carry on.
- Inform the dealer about the situation. “Excuse me, dealer, there is a disruptive individual here who keeps bumping into other players and knocking over chips.” The dealer may address the matter with them, and it might resolve the issue.
- Alternatively, you can choose to leave the table and find another one.
Rule #6: In case of winning
Once a number lands, the dealer will announce the winning number, possibly mentioning its colour and whether it is odd or even. Placing the “puck” on that number, the dealer will swiftly clear the board of all the unsuccessful bets.
Next, the dealer will award the payouts for the winning bets.
Rule #7: And the betting start all over again
During the time the “puck” remains on the winning bet, no further betting is permitted. Once the winners have received their payouts, the dealer will remove the puck and announce, “You may now place your bets.” It is at this moment that you seize the opportunity to try your luck once more.
By adhering to these basic guidelines, you are bound to have a delightful roulette experience. Roulette has been enjoyed by people for centuries, and it offers an exhilarating gameplay. If you haven’t tried roulette before, why not give it a shot? You’re likely to find it a thrilling game. Just remember always to follow the rules!
Roulette House Edge
Roulette has different house edges depending on the type of wheel. On American double-zero wheels, the house edge ranges from 2.63% to 7.89%, with the usual edge being 5.26%. On European single-zero wheels, the house edge ranges from 1.35% to 2.70%, with the usual edge being 2.70%. The European game is generally considered better due to its lower house edge.
Calculating the House Edge
In a fair game, the payout for a winning bet should be 37 to 1 on an American wheel and 35 to 1 on a European wheel. However, casinos pay back less to maintain their profit. By dividing the retained units (2 on American, 1 on European) by the total number of slots (38 on American, 37 on European) and multiplying the result by 100, the house edge is determined. The house edge on inside numbers and outside propositions like red-black or odd-even is 5.26% on the American wheel and 2.70% on the European wheel.
Reducing the House Edge
The house edges in roulette can be high, especially on American wheels. However, the game’s leisurely pace limits the number of decisions per hour. For outside even-money bettors, some casinos offer options like surrender or prison, which reduce the house edge. Surrender lowers the edge to 2.63% on the American wheel and 1.35% on the European wheel, while prison reduces it to 1.35% on the European wheel.
Choosing Smart Bets
It is recommended to bet on options with the lowest house edge, especially for outside even-money bets. By taking advantage of rules that decrease the edge, such as surrender or prison, players can improve their chances of winning.
Betting and Game Structure
Players use distinct coloured chips to represent different denominations. Betting is allowed until the dealer announces “No more bets,” and any bets placed after that are invalid. The roulette scoreboard displays recently selected numbers, aiding trend bettors in making their choices. The arrangement of numbers on the wheel may vary, but players should focus on the layout rather than the wheel’s design.
Number Sequence on the Wheels
On American wheels, numbers are spread out with alternating pairs of odd and even numbers, with 0 and 00 splitting specific pairs. On European wheels, the number arrangement differs but maintains a balance of odd and even numbers. The colours of the numbers correspond to the layout and are used for red-black bets.
Note: House edges and rules may vary among different casinos.