Roulette Guide β How to Play & Understand the Odds (2025)
Roulette is one of the most iconic and exciting casino games ever created. Whether you’re playing online or at a live table, the wheel offers fast-paced entertainment with simple rules. This guide explains how roulette works, the different types of bets, odds, strategies, and tips to help you play smarter in 2025.
π‘ How Roulette Works
Roulette is played using a spinning wheel with numbered pockets and a small metal ball. Players bet on where they think the ball will land. Once bets are placed, the dealer spins the wheel, and the ball determines the winning number and color.
The numbers go from 0 to 36, with the following layout:
- Red or Black (18 numbers each)
- Even or Odd
- Low (1β18) or High (19β36)
- Single Zero (0) on European wheels
- Double Zero (00) on American wheels
The goal is simply to predict the number, color, or group the ball will land in.
π Types of Roulette Wheels
The three main roulette variations youβll see online or in live casinos are:
European Roulette
- Single zero (0)
- 37 total pockets
- House edge: 2.70%
French Roulette
- Single zero (0)
- Includes special rules:
- La Partage β Lose only half on even-money bets if ball lands on 0
- En Prison β Bet stays for next spin instead of losing
- House edge can drop to 1.35%
American Roulette
- Two zero pockets (0 and 00)
- 38 total pockets
- House edge: 5.26% (worst version)
Recommendation: Always play European or French roulette if available.
π― Inside vs Outside Bets
Roulette bets fall into two categories: inside bets (specific numbers) and outside bets (larger groups with higher chances).
Inside Bets (Higher Risk, Higher Payouts)
- Straight Up: Single number (35:1 payout)
- Split: Two numbers (17:1)
- Street: Three numbers (11:1)
- Corner: Four numbers (8:1)
- Six Line: Six numbers (5:1)
Outside Bets (Lower Risk, Lower Payouts)
- Red / Black (1:1)
- Odd / Even (1:1)
- Low / High (1:1)
- Dozens (1β12, 13β24, 25β36) (2:1)
- Columns (2:1)
π Roulette Odds & Payout Table
| Bet Type | Payout | Probability (European) |
|---|---|---|
| Straight Up | 35:1 | 2.70% |
| Split | 17:1 | 5.41% |
| Red / Black | 1:1 | 48.65% |
The house edge affects the long-term results, but your bets determine the risk level you prefer.
π§ Roulette Strategies Explained
While roulette is a game of chance, some betting systems are commonly used by players. These wonβt change the house edge but can help structure your play.
Martingale System
- Double your bet after every loss
- Goal: Recover previous losses + small profit
- Risk: Can hit table limits or drain bankroll quickly
Fibonacci System
- Use Fibonacci sequence to size bets
- More controlled than Martingale
Flat Betting
- Bet the same amount every spin
- Best for bankroll longevity
- Good for beginners
Important: No strategy overcomes the house edge. Play for fun.
π‘ Tips for Playing Roulette Smarter
- Always choose European or French roulette when possible.
- Set a budget before you start.
- Outside bets offer safer, more frequent wins.
- Avoid American roulette if you want the best odds.
- Don’t chase losses β take breaks and enjoy the game.
π₯ Best Casinos for Playing Roulette Online
Looking for the best places to play roulette? Here are our recommended casinos:
- Omni Slots β Excellent live roulette
- Spinnalot β Modern interface & live dealer tables
- Whamoo β Good variety of roulette games
- Fruits4Real β Simple & user-friendly
