If you’ve ever been curious about how to play roulette, you’re not alone—this iconic casino game has been a mainstay for over two centuries thanks to its elegant design, fast pace, and variety of betting options.
At its core, roulette is simple: a ball is spun around a wheel, and players bet on where it will land. It’s a game of probability, risk management, and smart betting systems—and while luck drives the outcome of each spin, knowledge of roulette rules can help maximize your chances.
Game Versions and Wheel and Table Layout
There are three primary versions of the game you’ll find live and at roulette apps:
- European roulette: Features 37 pockets (numbers 1–36 and a single zero). Known for its lower house edge.
- American roulette: Adds a double zero (00), increasing the total to 38 numbers. This raises the house edge slightly.
- French roulette: Uses the same wheel as European, but includes special rules like la partage and en prison that can further reduce the casino’s advantage.
Each version changes the odds and gameplay slightly, so learning the differences is crucial for new players.
Before placing any bets, it’s important to understand the wheel layout and table layout. These elements shape everything from your betting options to the flow of the game.
Wheel Layout
The roulette wheel is divided into numbered slots—alternating red and black—with a green zero (and in American versions, a green double zero). Numbers are non-sequentially arranged to balance the odds around the wheel. In:
- European and French roulette, the wheel contains numbers 1–36 plus a single 0.
- American roulette adds a 00, creating an additional pocket that increases the house margin.
This seemingly small addition has a big impact: European wheels offer a return to player (RTP) of about 97.3%, while American versions drop to ~94.74%.
Table Layout
The roulette table layout mirrors the wheel, offering areas for placing inside bets (on specific numbers or number groups) and outside bets (on broader outcomes like red/black or odd/even). These sections are clearly marked and color-coded, making it easy to locate and place chips before each spin.
There are also special layouts used in French roulette, which include areas for call bets like voisins, tiers, and orphelins—groupings of numbers based on wheel proximity rather than numerical order.
As we move through this roulette guide, you’ll see how the table’s layout helps define your betting strategy, risk level, and potential payout.
How to Play Blackjack: Bet Types & Payouts
One of the most exciting aspects of learning how to play roulette is exploring the variety of available bet types. Each wager comes with its own odds, risk level, and roulette payouts, and understanding the differences is essential to shaping your strategy.
Inside Bets
Inside bets are placed on the numbered section of the table layout and tend to offer higher payouts with lower probability of success. These include:
- Straight-up bet: A bet on a single number (pays 35:1)
- Split bet: A bet on two adjacent numbers (pays 17:1)
- Street bet: A bet on a row of three numbers (pays 11:1)
- Corner bet: Covers four numbers in a square layout (pays 8:1)
- Six-line bet: Covers two adjacent rows (six numbers total, pays 5:1)
Inside bets appeal to players looking for big wins, but they come with higher volatility.
Outside Bets
Outside bets are placed on the outer portion of the table and cover broader outcomes. These bets offer lower payouts but much better odds of hitting:
- Odd/Even
- Red/Black
- High/Low (1–18 or 19–36)
- Dozen bet (1st 12, 2nd 12, 3rd 12 — pays 2:1)
- Column bet (one of the three vertical columns — also pays 2:1)
These bets are ideal for beginner roulette players because they hit more frequently and allow for slower bankroll loss while you get used to the game.
Special Bets (French Roulette)
In French roulette or some European tables, you’ll encounter call bets (also called announced bets), based on sections of the wheel:
- Voisins du Zéro: “Neighbors of zero” — a bet on 17 numbers surrounding the zero
- Tiers du Cylindre: Covers a third of the wheel opposite zéro
- Orphelins: The “orphans” — numbers not covered by the other two
These bets are more advanced and usually require familiarity with wheel layout, often called out verbally to the croupier in live games.
Understanding the balance between inside and outside bets—and their respective odds to payoff ratios—is key to improving your win rate and managing your risk as you refine your roulette strategy.
Gameplay Steps
Once you’ve chosen your table and placed your chips, the casino roulette experience begins to come alive. Whether you’re playing in a real casino, trying online roulette, or sitting at a live dealer roulette table, the structure is nearly identical.
Buy-In and Chips
When you sit at a roulette table, you’ll exchange cash for specially colored chips unique to you. This helps the croupier track everyone’s wagers. Chip colors are essential for clear betting and avoiding disputes, especially at busy tables.
Each table has betting limits, including minimum and maximum bets, which apply separately to inside and outside wagers. Always check these before placing your first bet.
Placing Bets
Bets must be placed before the croupier calls “no more bets.” In live games, this window is short—usually 15–20 seconds. In online roulette, timers or prompts will guide you. You can stack chips across multiple bet types, mixing inside bets, outside bets, or even specialty wagers.
In demo mode, players can practice this phase at their own pace, perfecting timing and table layout awareness.
The Spin and Outcome
Once all bets are in, the dealer spins the roulette wheel in one direction and launches the ball in the opposite. Eventually, the ball settles into a numbered slot. That number and color determine the outcome.
The croupier will place a marker on the winning number and begin payouts, returning chips for winning bets according to their odds. Losing bets are swept from the table, and the next round begins.
It’s worth noting that roulette spins are independent spins—previous outcomes have no effect on the next. While betting patterns and systems are popular, each round is a fresh statistical event.
Learning how to play roulette includes mastering this rhythm: place bets, observe the spin, get paid, repeat. Once you’re comfortable with these steps, you can focus more on optimizing wagers and reducing the house edge.
Understanding the House Edge and Odds in Roulette
If you want to play smart, you need to understand how the house edge affects every bet you make. One of the keys to improving at how to play roulette is learning which wheels, rules, and bets offer better long-term value—and which are designed to drain your bankroll faster.
House Edge by Game Variant
The house edge is the built-in advantage that casinos have over players. In roulette, it varies depending on the wheel used and the rules in play:
- European roulette: ~2.70% house edge
- American roulette: ~5.26% house edge (due to the double zero)
- French roulette: ~1.35% house edge on even-money bets (thanks to special rules)
These numbers are essentially the opposite of the return to player (RTP) percentage:
- European: ~97.3% RTP
- American: ~94.74% RTP
- French: Up to ~98.65% RTP with la partage
So while the basic mechanics stay the same, choosing the right variant can cut the house’s take by more than half.
Bet-Specific Odds
Each roulette bet comes with its own odds to payoff ratios. Here are a few key examples:
- Straight-up bet: 35:1 payout, 2.70% win chance (on European wheel)
- Split bet: 17:1 payout, 5.41% chance
- Red/Black: 1:1 payout, 48.65% chance
- Dozen bet: 2:1 payout, 32.43% chance
Note that these probabilities don’t sum to 100% because of the zero (or double zero), which tips the odds in favor of the house.
Understanding these numbers helps players balance high-risk bets with safer, lower-variance plays like outside bets.
Special Rules That Reduce the House Edge
Some casino roulette variants include special rules that reduce the house’s advantage, particularly on even-money bets like red/black, odd/even, and high/low. These rules are most common in French roulette, though some high-end American and European tables may offer them as well.
La Partage Rule
The la partage rule applies when you make an even-money bet and the ball lands on zero. Instead of losing your entire wager, you only lose half, and the casino keeps the other half. This cuts the house margin on these bets from 2.70% to 1.35%—a huge benefit for long-term play.
This rule is automatic and requires no player input. It’s one of the best features available to serious players who want to reduce variance and maintain better RTP.
En Prison Rule
The en prison rule is similar, but instead of losing half your bet, your even-money wager is “imprisoned” (held over) for the next spin if zero hits. If your bet wins on the next spin, it’s returned to you without profit. If it loses, it’s gone.
This adds a bit more complexity, but the math is nearly identical to la partage in terms of value—it lowers the house edge to about 1.35% on applicable bets.
Surrender in American Roulette
A handful of American roulette tables (mostly online or in high-limit rooms) offer a version of surrender, which mirrors la partage for even-money bets. When zero or double zero is spun, players lose only half their bet instead of all of it.
Because the American wheel already has a higher base house edge, this rule brings it closer to European levels—but not quite as good. Still, it’s worth seeking out if you’re playing in a double-zero environment.
Summary of Key Reductions
| Rule | Applies To | Result | Adjusted House Edge |
| La Partage | Even-money bets | Lose half on 0 | ~1.35% |
| En Prison | Even-money bets | Bet held on 0 | ~1.35% |
| Surrender | Even-money bets | Lose half on 0/00 | ~2.63% |
If you’re serious about optimizing your approach to how to play roulette, choosing tables with these special rules is one of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce risk.
Roulette Strategy & Betting Systems
While roulette is a game of chance, there’s still room for structure. A smart roulette strategy doesn’t guarantee wins—every spin is random and independent—but it helps you manage risk, stay disciplined, and stretch your bankroll.
Flat Betting
The simplest approach is flat betting: wagering the same amount on every spin, regardless of the result. This method doesn’t attempt to chase losses or capitalize on wins, making it ideal for casual players or those sticking to outside bets like red/black or odd/even.
Progressive Betting Systems
Many players explore betting systems in roulette that involve adjusting your stake based on outcomes. These include:
- Martingale system: Double your bet after each loss. The idea is that one win recovers all losses plus a profit. It can work short term, but hitting the table limits or draining your bankroll during a long losing streak is a real risk.
- D’Alembert system: Increase your bet by one unit after a loss, decrease by one after a win. Less aggressive than Martingale, but still risky over time.
- Fibonacci system: Follows the famous numerical sequence (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, etc.). You increase bets based on this progression after each loss. Safer than Martingale, but still built on chasing.
- Labouchère system: Set a sequence (e.g., 1–2–3). Bet the sum of the first and last numbers. If you win, cross them off. If you lose, add the amount to the end. It’s complex, but gives players a sense of structure.
- James Bond strategy: A flat betting setup where you spread bets across high numbers, zero, and a lower third of the wheel. It feels clever, but it’s not immune to variance.
Choosing the Right Approach
Take a look at US online gambling statistics, and you will see that a lot of money is being made by operators, which certainly means that there’s a lot of risk when spending money gambling online or otherwise. No system beats the house edge, but some help you stay engaged while limiting emotional decisions. The key is matching your bankroll management style to your risk tolerance. Don’t use a progression system unless you understand how fast bets can escalate. Flat betting on even-money wagers with la partage or en prison in play gives you the best long-term return.
Playing Online & Live Dealer Roulette
Thanks to technology, players can enjoy roulette from anywhere—whether through online roulette apps or immersive live dealer roulette streams. Each format has unique pros and cons, but both follow the same core roulette rules.
Online Roulette (RNG-Based)
Most digital roulette games use a random number generator (RNG) to determine outcomes. These games are fast, frictionless, and available 24/7. You can play multiple rounds per minute, often with flexible betting limits and customizable features like chip colors or bet saving.
One major advantage is the ability to play in demo mode, which lets you test strategies and learn the table layout without risking real money. This is a great option for beginner roulette players looking to practice roulette bets and pacing.
However, since RNG reshuffles every round and isn’t tied to a physical wheel layout, some players feel less trust or immersion. That’s where live dealer games come in.
Live Dealer Roulette
Live dealer roulette brings the authenticity of a real casino to your screen. The wheel is physical, and a real croupier manages spins and bets via livestream. You can usually see recent results, interact with other players, and even place call bets on advanced layouts like French roulette.
Gameplay is slower than RNG versions, and some variants include special rules like en prison or surrender—especially in premium lobbies. These games often cater to players seeking more realism, strategy depth, and even lower house margin environments.
Choosing Where to Play
Whether online or live, always select licensed casinos with fair play certification, published roulette odds, and a good reputation. Stick to providers like Evolution, Playtech, or NetEnt for top-tier experiences.
Mobile compatibility is nearly universal, so you can learn how to play roulette on the go—perfect for quick sessions or dedicated practice.
Tips & Common Mistakes for Roulette Beginners
Even with simple rules, roulette has plenty of traps that can drain your bankroll if you’re not careful. Learning how to play roulette effectively means avoiding common errors, staying calm, and playing the long game.
Avoid the Five-Number Bet (American Roulette)
One of the worst roulette bets you can make is the five-number bet on 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3. Exclusive to American roulette, this bet has a 7.89% house edge—far worse than any other option on the table. Skip it entirely.
Stick to Outside Bets at First
For a beginner roulette strategy, focus on outside bets like red/black, odd/even, or high/low. These offer nearly 50/50 outcomes and lower volatility. They’re ideal for stretching your session and gaining confidence before trying inside bets.
Don’t Chase Losses with Betting Systems
Progressive betting systems can be fun, but they often lead players to increase bets recklessly after losses. Doubling down in frustration rarely ends well. Whether you’re using the Martingale system or the Fibonacci system, always set hard limits—and understand the risk.
Choose Favorable Table Rules
If possible, play European roulette or French roulette with la partage or en prison. Avoid tables with 6:1 payout gimmicks or excessive side bets. Casino rules variations matter more than many players think—small differences in house edge have a big impact over time.
Respect Table Etiquette
When playing in-person, follow basic casino etiquette: don’t place chips after the dealer calls “no more bets,” don’t touch your winnings until payouts are complete, and don’t stack your chips on top of others in shared betting areas.
By keeping your approach disciplined and informed, you’ll avoid the rookie mistakes that separate recreational players from those who play smart.
Learning Tools & Practice Resources
The best way to improve at how to play roulette is through hands-on learning and guided repetition. Fortunately, there are many tools to help you practice without financial pressure.
Free Play & Demo Mode
Many online casinos offer demo mode roulette, which uses virtual credits and the same rules as real games. It’s a perfect way to experiment with inside bets, understand roulette payouts, or try different betting systems roulette players use—without any risk.
Use this mode to simulate real play, track results, and test things like flat betting, column bets, or special options like call bets if you’re exploring French tables.
Strategy Charts & Simulations
While not as common as in blackjack, basic roulette guide materials do exist—especially around betting systems, payout odds, and wheel sectors. Many players also build spreadsheets or use free online simulators to test outcomes over thousands of spins.
These tools can help you evaluate your RTP, explore variance across systems, and understand just how independent each spin truly is.
Start Small at Real Tables
When you’re ready to move beyond simulations, look for low-stakes tables—either in live casinos or online platforms. Set clear bankroll management limits and treat the session as a learning experience.
Don’t worry about memorizing every table layout or system. Focus on core principles: know your bets, understand probability, and play patiently.
As with any casino game, the more you play, the more comfortable you’ll become—and the easier it is to identify patterns, opportunities, and mistakes worth avoiding.
Conclusion
Learning how to play roulette is all about combining simplicity with strategy. At its heart, roulette is a game of chance—but understanding the roulette rules, knowing the difference between inside bets and outside bets, and selecting favorable game variants can significantly improve your results.
Start with the basics: choose European roulette or French roulette over American roulette whenever possible, make use of la partage or en prison rules, and favor even-money wagers while learning. As you become more comfortable, you can experiment with advanced betting systems like the Martingale or Fibonacci, but always keep your bankroll management in check.
Whether you’re playing in a casino, testing your skills in demo mode, or trying live dealer roulette from your phone, the key is consistency. Focus on steady bets, disciplined play, and smart table selection—and you’ll get the most out of every spin.
FAQs
What are the basic rules of roulette and how do I play?
Roulette involves betting on where a ball will land on a spinning wheel. After placing bets on the table layout, the croupier spins the wheel, and payouts are made based on the winning number and bet types. Understanding how to play roulette means knowing the flow: place chips, wait for the spin, and collect winnings or place new bets for the next round.
What’s the difference between American, European, and French roulette?
American roulette has 38 numbers (1–36, 0, 00), leading to a higher house edge. European roulette has 37 numbers with a single zero. French roulette is like European but includes rules like la partage and en prison that reduce the house advantage on even-money bets.
How do inside and outside bets differ and what are their payouts?
Inside bets target specific numbers or small groups (e.g., straight-up, split, corner), offering high payouts (up to 35:1) but low odds. Outside bets cover broader outcomes (red/black, odd/even, dozens), offering even-money or 2:1 payouts with higher chances of winning.
What is the house edge and how does it vary by roulette variant?
The house edge depends on the game: ~5.26% in American roulette, ~2.70% in European, and as low as 1.35% in French roulette (with special rules). Always check the wheel layout and available rules before betting.
How do La Partage and En Prison rules impact odds?
Both rules apply to even-money bets when the ball lands on 0. La partage lets you recover half your bet. En prison holds the bet for one more spin. Both reduce the house margin, especially in French roulette.
What are the most common betting systems (Martingale, Fibonacci, etc.) and how do they work?
Systems like Martingale, Fibonacci, and Labouchère use betting progressions to try to recover losses over time. Martingale doubles bets after each loss, while Fibonacci increases bets by following a sequence. None can overcome the house edge, but they can add structure to your play.
Should beginners stick to outside bets or try inside bets?
Outside bets are better for beginners due to lower variance and higher win probabilities. Start with red/black or odd/even before exploring inside bets like split or street bets.
How do I practice roulette online and what is demo mode?
Most online roulette platforms offer demo mode, which allows you to play for free with virtual chips. This is great for testing strategies, learning the table layout, and understanding roulette payouts.
How does live dealer roulette differ from RNG-based online roulette?
Live dealer roulette uses real wheels and human dealers streamed live, offering an immersive experience. RNG-based games use computer software to determine results and move faster. Both follow the same roulette rules, but live dealer games often include more realistic features and advanced rule variants.
What mistakes should I avoid when learning to play roulette?
Avoid chasing losses with aggressive betting systems, skip the five-number bet in American roulette, and don’t ignore casino rules variations. Stick to favorable tables, manage your bankroll, and focus on consistency over “hot streaks.”
