How to Play Roulette Like a Pro
Roulette is a fun and fast-paced casino game that’s easy enough for novices to learn but with plenty of betting options that experienced players can enjoy too. The essential aim of the game is to accurately guess what number the ball will land on. The numbers on the roulette wheel are numbered 1 to 36 and are alternately red and black with a green zero. In the American version of the game there’s an extra green pocket numbered 00.
A ball is spun around the outside of the wheel and then dropped into one of the numbered pockets on the roulette table (aka layout). Each numbered section or “pocket” is marked with either a red or black dot to indicate whether it’s for an odd, even or high bet. There are also a few other bets including the “basket” bet which is placed by placing chips on the outside of the number row and covers two or more numbers at once.
The number of chips you place on a bet will determine how much you can win. Each roulette table carries a placard with a minimum and maximum bet amount. The best strategy is to set a budget and choose a roulette table within that limit. Then select a type of bet such as straight-up, split or street. The next step is to place your chips on the selected area of the roulette table.
After all bets have been placed, the dealer will spin the wheel and then drop the ball into one of the pockets. The winning number is then determined and the player’s winning chips are paid out immediately. Any remaining bets are left up for the next round.
If you’re playing online roulette, you can place a bet by selecting the color, number or area of the roulette table that you want to wager on. Then simply drag and drop your colored chip from the bottom of the screen on the desired spot on the table. Once your bet has been placed, click the spin button to watch the ball whizz around the wheel before landing in one of the pockets.
While some players will try to develop a system of strategies for winning, most roulette games are decided by chance. With this in mind, it’s important to know when to walk away. Especially as the game can be highly addictive, it’s a good idea to set a budget before you start and to always quit while you’re ahead. If you’re not, it’s likely that you’ll lose more than you win.