Roulette is a game of chance that has offered glamour and mystery to casino-goers since the 17th century. While it is true that the game relies heavily on luck, there is a surprising depth of strategy for serious players. Read on to learn how to play roulette and make smart bets that increase your chances of winning.
Before the dealer spins the wheel, the player places chips on a betting mat that covers a portion of the roulette table. Each bet type has its own precise location on the betting table, and the chips are placed in a way that clearly indicates what bet is being made. The chips are then taken up by the croupiers who then place them on the roulette wheel, where they are then spun around until the ball stops in one of the divisions that line the edge of the wheel. The thirty-six divisions are numbered alternately red and black and on European-style wheels, there is an extra green division marked 0 while on American roulette tables, there are two green zero compartments.
After the wheel spins and the ball settles, the dealer clears the losing chips off the table and pays the winners. It is important to keep in mind that you should never dip into your winnings to bet again on the same number. This is known as “scalping” and it can significantly reduce your odds of winning a bet.
The first step in the process of playing Roulette is choosing a roulette table that is within your budget. Each table carries a placard that describes the minimum and maximum bets allowed. Once you have decided on a table, choose a wager amount that is comfortable for your bankroll and stick to it throughout the game. If you have a limited budget, it is recommended that you start by placing your bets on outside bets, which are typically cheaper and offer higher payouts. This will minimize your losses and maximize your potential for a winning streak. If you have more money to invest, you can switch to inside bets once your bankroll has increased.