How to play roulette for beginners
Roulette is one of the most popular and recognizable casino games worldwide, loved for its straightforward gameplay and thrilling betting opportunities. Whether you're a beginner just getting started or an experienced player aiming to sharpen your skills, our guide will clearly explain how to play roulette, covering everything from essential rules to different wagering options you can enjoy at casinos across the USA.
Introduction to Roulette
Roulette is all about predicting numbers! A typical roulette setup includes a spinning wheel, a small ball, and a betting table (known as the 'layout') displaying all possible numbers and additional betting choices. To play, simply place your chips on the layout, wagering on the number or outcome you believe the ball will settle on once the wheel stops spinning.
Roulette Basics Explained
Understanding the Roulette Wheel
The roulette wheel is a fundamental part of the game, typically featuring numbered pockets ranging from 1 to 36 that alternate between red and black colors, plus at least one additional pocket marked zero (0) in green. In American roulette, there's an extra pocket labeled double zero (00). These numbers aren't sequentially arranged; instead, they're strategically positioned to maintain a balanced distribution of odd and even numbers, high (19–36) and low (1–18) numbers, and the alternating colors.
Navigating the Table Layout
The roulette table layout is the area where players place their bets, matching the numbers and categories on the wheel. It's clearly divided into two primary betting sections:
- Inside Bets: These wagers are placed directly on individual numbers or specific small groups of numbers, offering higher payouts but lower chances of hitting. For example, placing your chips on one specific number or between two or four numbers are common inside bets.
- Outside Bets: These wagers cover broader groups or categories, such as betting on red or black, odd or even, or larger number groups like 1–18 or 19–36. While outside bets have lower payouts, they come with significantly higher odds of winning, making them popular choices for newer players or those looking for a more cautious betting strategy.
How to Play Roulette: Step-by-Step Guide
Placing Your Bets
When you arrive at a roulette table, you'll first need to exchange your cash for roulette-specific chips from the dealer, also known as the croupier. Roulette uses unique colored chips assigned to each player to avoid confusion and keep track of everyone's bets clearly. These chips can only be used at the table where you received them.
Once you get your distinctive colored chips, you—and everyone else at the table—can clearly identify which bets are yours. Be sure to check the minimum and maximum betting limits, as these vary between roulette tables and will be prominently displayed.
When placing inside bets (bets on specific numbers or groups of numbers), always put your chips directly on top of any existing chips from other players, rather than beside them. This practice ensures your bets are correctly placed and clearly visible.
If you're unsure or unable to reach certain areas of the table layout, don't hesitate to ask the dealer for assistance. Dealers are typically happy to help, and it’s best to request assistance before the ball is spun.
Once betting is complete, the croupier will spin the ball around the roulette wheel and announce clearly, "No more bets." From this point onward, no players are allowed to adjust, place, or remove any chips from the betting layout until the round is complete.
Spin and Outcome
After all bets are finalized, the dealer spins the roulette ball in the opposite direction of the wheel's rotation. Eventually, the ball loses momentum and settles into one of the numbered pockets. The croupier places a marker, commonly known as a "dolly," onto the winning number to indicate the winning result.
All losing bets are collected by the dealer, clearing the table. The dealer will then pay out any winning bets according to the type of wager placed and corresponding payout odds.
Cashing Out
When you're ready to leave the roulette table, inform the dealer you wish to "cash out." The dealer will exchange your colored roulette chips for standard casino chips. These standard chips can be freely used at other gaming tables or exchanged directly at the casino's cashier (also called the Cash Desk) for real money. Always remember to cash out your roulette chips before leaving the table area, as they are not accepted at other games or tables.
Types of Roulette Bets
Roulette provides players with a diverse array of betting options, each offering different odds and payout possibilities. Below is a clear breakdown of the most popular roulette bets and their associated payouts:
Inside Bets
1. Straight Up
A bet placed directly on any single number on the roulette table.
Payout: 35 to 1
2. Split
A bet placed on the line separating two adjacent numbers. This covers both numbers.
Payout: 17 to 1
3. Street
A wager placed at the end of a row covering three consecutive numbers horizontally.
Payout: 11 to 1
4. Corner (Square)
A wager placed at the intersection of four adjacent numbers, covering all four.
Payout: 8 to 1
5. Six-Line
A bet covering two adjacent rows of three numbers each, totaling six numbers.
Payout: 5 to 1
Outside Bets
1. Red or Black
A wager on whether the winning number will be red or black.
Payout: 1 to 1
2. Odd or Even
Betting that the winning number will either be odd or even.
Payout: 1 to 1
3. High or Low
A bet that covers either low numbers (1–18) or high numbers (19–36).
Payout: 1 to 1
4. Columns or Dozens
A bet covering a specific column of 12 numbers or one of three consecutive groups of 12 numbers (1–12, 13–24, 25–36).
Payout: 2 to 1
Note: Column and dozen bets lose if the ball lands on zero.
Even Chances (Special Rule)
Even Chances (Red/Black, Odd/Even, High/Low) offer a 1 to 1 payout. However, on European roulette tables, if the ball lands on zero, you may either lose only half of your bet ("La Partage" rule), or your bet is held for a second spin ("En Prison" rule). Be sure to check the specific casino rules.
Roulette Track Bets Explained
Track bets, also known as "call bets," are special wagers in roulette placed on particular segments of the wheel rather than directly onto the standard betting layout. Players typically place these bets on an oval-shaped betting area called the racetrack or verbally through the dealer (croupier). The most common types of track bets include:
1. Tiers du Cylindre
This bet covers roughly one-third of the roulette wheel. Specifically, it includes 12 numbers opposite the zero segment. It’s a popular bet among experienced roulette players, as it covers a sizable portion of the wheel evenly distributed away from zero.
2. Orphelins
"Orphelins," meaning "orphans" in French, refers to a group of eight numbers on the roulette wheel. These numbers are not included in either the Tiers du Cylindre or the Voisins du Zero sections, hence the name. (Note: Availability may vary depending on the casino, and in some places, like Manchester, this bet is specifically listed.)
3. Voisins du Zero
Translating to "neighbors of zero," this bet covers 17 numbers around the zero on the wheel. It’s the largest track bet available, providing extensive coverage around the zero pocket. (Note: This bet might be specifically indicated or available in select casinos, including Manchester.)
1. Tiers du Cylindre
This type of bet involves selecting one main number and covering the two adjacent numbers on both sides, resulting in a total of five numbers. Players verbally instruct the dealer by stating the central number and "neighbors" (for example, "8 and the neighbors"). This bet allows precise coverage of a specific section of the roulette wheel.
Track bets offer experienced players an efficient way to place strategic wagers, covering segments of the wheel rather than individual numbers or broader table bets.
Touchbet Roulette vs. Traditional Table Roulette
Touchbet (Electronic) Roulette
Touchbet Roulette, often referred to as electronic roulette, offers a modern twist on the classic game and is widely available in casinos across the US. This version combines traditional roulette with user-friendly electronic betting terminals, allowing you to place bets digitally while watching either a live roulette wheel or an automated wheel in action.
How to Play Touchbet Roulette:
- Place bets easily: Simply tap the interactive touchscreen to place your chips. Each tap places one chip—tap multiple times or choose different chip values to adjust your wager.
- Comfort and convenience: Enjoy playing at your own terminal, managing your gameplay at your own pace without needing to physically handle chips or interact directly with the dealer.
- Easy cash-out: To finish playing, tap the “cash out” button, which prints a ticket. You can use this ticket at other gaming machines, table games, or exchange it for cash at the casino cashier.
Traditional Table Roulette
Playing roulette directly at a casino table provides the authentic, traditional gambling experience loved by many. At-table roulette emphasizes social interaction, bringing you face-to-face with the dealer (croupier) and fellow players.
Benefits of Traditional Roulette:
- Social Interaction: Engage directly with other players and the dealer, creating a lively and exciting atmosphere.
- Physical Gameplay: Physically place your chips on the table layout, adding a hands-on element to the roulette experience.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Enjoy the classic ambience of casino gaming, including the spinning wheel, rolling ball, and real-time dealer announcements.
Which Is Best for You?
- Choose Touchbet Roulette if:
You prefer convenience, faster gameplay, and a more private, relaxed gaming session. - Choose Traditional Roulette if:
You enjoy face-to-face interaction, physical participation, and the classic atmosphere of the casino floor.
Both options deliver a great roulette experience—your choice depends entirely on your preferred gaming style and environment.
Roulette Etiquette
When playing roulette at any casino in the US, it's important to follow proper etiquette to create a pleasant and smooth gaming experience for yourself, fellow players, and casino staff.
Placing Your Bets
Always place your bets carefully on the roulette table layout, being mindful not to overcrowd or disrupt other players' chips. For inside bets, neatly stack your chips on top of existing chips instead of placing them next to others. This approach helps the dealer clearly identify each player's bets, ensuring accuracy and fairness.
Follow the Dealer’s Instructions
Pay close attention to the dealer's announcements. Dealers will indicate when betting begins and will announce "No more bets" before spinning the ball. At that moment, stop placing or adjusting your chips. Adhering to dealer instructions maintains the flow of the game and avoids confusion or potential disputes.
Be Courteous and Respectful
Maintain courtesy and respect toward both casino staff and fellow players at all times. If you require assistance or have questions, politely wait until an appropriate break in gameplay to address the dealer. If a dispute arises regarding bet placement or payouts, calmly bring it to the dealer’s attention, who will promptly and fairly resolve the matter.
Handling Your Chips
Always handle your chips carefully. Clearly separate your bets from others to avoid confusion. If you wish to cash out, wait for the current spin to conclude, then politely inform the dealer you'd like to exchange your roulette chips for cashable casino chips.
Following these etiquette guidelines ensures an enjoyable roulette experience for everyone involved, helping you focus on the excitement of the game without unnecessary distractions.
Additional Roulette FAQs for Beginners:
❓ Can I play roulette online for real money in the US?
Yes. Many reputable and regulated online casinos in the United States offer roulette games for real money, including European, American, and French roulette variations. Always choose licensed and secure platforms to ensure a safe gaming experience.
❓ What’s the difference between European and American roulette?
- European roulette has 37 pockets (numbers 1-36 plus a single zero), resulting in a house edge of 2.70%.
- American roulette features 38 pockets (numbers 1-36, zero, and double-zero), resulting in a higher house edge of 5.26%.
European roulette typically offers players slightly better odds.
What is the best roulette strategy for beginners?
While roulette outcomes are always random, beginners should start with simple outside bets (such as red/black or odd/even) to enjoy frequent wins, even if smaller. It’s also smart to set a clear betting limit and stick to it to manage your bankroll effectively.
How do I know the minimum and maximum bet limits at a roulette table?
Each roulette table clearly displays its minimum and maximum bet limits on a sign or placard near the wheel. Online casinos list this information prominently within the game interface, usually visible before you begin playing.
What is a split bet in roulette?
A split bet is placed on two adjacent numbers on the roulette table layout. If either of those two numbers wins, your payout will be 17:1.
Can I bet after the ball starts spinning?
You can place bets until the dealer announces, "No more bets." After this call, you must not place, move, or adjust any bets until the round concludes and winnings are paid out.
What happens if the ball lands on zero in roulette?
If the ball lands on zero, all inside bets on zero win. All other bets, including red/black, odd/even, high/low, dozens, or columns, typically lose unless specific rules (like La Partage in French roulette) apply.
Is roulette purely a game of luck?
Yes. Roulette outcomes depend entirely on chance due to the random spin of the wheel and ball. No betting system or strategy can guarantee consistent winnings, but understanding bets and odds can help maximize your enjoyment and manage your bankroll responsibly.