Roulette is one of the most famous casino games worldwide, offering glamour and mystery to players. Its rules are relatively simple and offer a surprising level of depth for serious betters, allowing them to reap high rewards.
The game began in the late 1700s in Paris and has since spread throughout the world, making it a staple in both physical and online casinos. The game has spawned many variations and features, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for a new challenge.
While the game is based on luck, there are some betting strategies that can improve your chances of winning. The Martingale system advises you to make even-chip bets and double your stake each time you lose. While it will not help you win every spin, this strategy is a great way to limit your losses and prevent your bankroll from emptying completely. Another strategy is the Labouchere system, which has you picture your desired win amount and adjusts your stake amounts accordingly.
Outside bets, which are placed on options found around the outside of a roulette table, have lower payouts than inside bets but a higher probability of success. The most common outside bet is the straight bet, where players place chips on a single number. If the ball stops on that number, the player will receive a payout of 35 to 1.
Other outside bets include the corner and basket bets, which are placed on groups of numbers found on the roulette felt. A successful basket bet pays out 6 to 1 and requires the placement of five chips. A successful column bet pays out 2 to 1 and requires the placement of three chips in a row on the roulette table map.
The most popular roulette variant is the European version, which is played at both physical and online casinos. It differs from the American version in that it has a single zero pocket on the wheel, reducing its house edge to a coveted 2.7%. This makes it the best form of the game in terms of its odds. It also features two additional rules: la partage and en prison, which make the game more favorable to players.