The roulette wheel is the heart of the game, featuring numbered pockets. In European roulette, these pockets are numbered 1 to 36, alternating between red and black, with a single green zero. American roulette adds a second green pocket, a double zero (00), increasing the house edge. Players place bets on the table, predicting the number, colour, or range where the ball will settle. The dealer spins the wheel and releases the ball; when the ball slows, it falls into one of the numbered pockets, determining the winning bets.
There are two main categories of bets: inside and outside bets. Inside bets involve wagering on specific numbers or small groups of numbers. Outside bets cover larger groups of numbers, such as red or black, odd or even, or high or low. Each bet type offers different payouts, with higher payouts associated with riskier bets.
While the core gameplay remains constant, different roulette variations exist. European roulette is generally considered the most player-friendly due to its lower house edge compared to American roulette. French roulette, a variation of European roulette, includes rules like "la partage" and "en prison," which further reduce the house edge when the ball lands on zero. Australian casinos predominantly offer European roulette.
There is no guaranteed winning strategy in roulette, as the outcome is based on chance. However, various betting systems exist, such as the Martingale system or the Fibonacci sequence, that players use to manage their bankroll and potentially increase their chances of winning over time. It's crucial to remember that these systems do not alter the house edge and are inherently risky.
Here are some key things to keep in mind when playing roulette in Australia: