How Do I Play Roulette at the Casino?

Roulette is quite probably the globe’s most popular and thrilling casino game. Its rotating wheel, flying ball, and sheer thrill all won over newbies and experts alike. You might be new to the world of casino games or simply curious about learning the ropes of playing roulette. This book guides you through all you need to know about playing roulette—rules, bets, odds, strategy, and casino manners—so you will be comfortable playing.
What is Roulette?
Roulette is “little wheel” in French. Roulette itself is a wheel with pockets wherein the numbers are inscribed and a ball, which moves in the reverse direction of that of the revolving wheel. Bets are made by players on where the ball will eventually stop. It is the alluring suspense until the wheels stop, which makes everyone adore roulette.
There are two versions of the game that hold sway to the largest extent:
- European Roulette (single zero): 37 slots (1–36 and 0)
- American Roulette (double zero): 38 slots (1–36 and 0 and 00)
European roulette has a marginally infinitesimally small house advantage, and hence, most people bet on this form.
Step-by-Step: How to Play Roulette
Step 1: Buy Chips
First, visit the roulette table and buy chips from the croupier (more commonly called the dealer). Chips are given to all players in a different color so that there will be no confusion. They’re specially made casino chips and can only be used at that specific table.
Step 2: Place Your Bets
You will be asked to put your bets before the wheel is rolled. You can bet chips on:
- Individual numbers
- Groups of numbers
- Colors (Red or Black)
- Odd or Even numbers
- Ranges like 1–18 or 19–36
You may place a number of bets as long as they are between the minimum and maximum bets for the table.
Step 3: The Spin
The dealer releases the ball and the wheel spins after all bets have been paid. No bets are placed when the ball starts slowing down.
Step 4: Winning Number
When the ball falls into a pocket, the color and number of the winning number are announced by the dealer. The stakes of the winner are paid for odds, and the chips of the losers are removed from the table.

Types of Roulette Bets
There are multiple forms of bets one can place on Roulette. These are generally categorized into two types: inside bets and outside bets.
Inside Bets
These are wagers on a single number or small sets of numbers. They have larger payouts but more risk.
- Straight Up: Wager on a single digit (pays 35 to 1)
- Split: Wager on two digits side by side (pays 17 to 1)
- Street: Wager on a three-number line (pays 11 to 1)
- Corner: Wager on a four-number square (pays 8 to 1)
- Line: Place a bet on two adjacent lines, each of which contains six numbers (pays 5 to 1)
Outside Bets
These wager on larger numbers of numbers, but with more chances of winning for less paid out.
- Red or Black: Wager on color (pays 1 to 1)
- Odd or Even: Wager on odd or even (pays 1 to 1)
- Low or High: Wager on 1–18 or 19–36 (pays 1 to 1)
- Dozens: Bet on 1–12, 13–24, or 25–36 (pays 2 to 1)
- Columns: Betsoft on a 12-number column (pays 2 to 1)
Roulette Variants: European vs. American
Of course, there are known to be the two most popular versions of the game:
European Roulette
- One zero (0)
- House edge: 2.7%
- Better odds for players
American Roulette
- One zero (0) and one double zero (00)
- House edge: 5.26%
- Higher risk, lower winning odds
If at all possible, play European Roulette since the one-zero wheel provides you with a higher possibility of winning.
Basic Strategies for Beginners
As much as roulette is a game of chance, there are certain strategies that can help you manage your bankroll and also maximize your experience.
1. The Martingale Strategy
Double up on each loss. Here, there is a feeling that you will cover all the losses of the past when you win at last and you’ll be left with a minimal profit. This does need an extremely gigantic bankroll and sometimes even too risky.
2. Reverse Martingale
Double up on each win. This prevents the destruction of winning streaks but ensures a minimum loss.
3. Flat Betting
Bet the same on every spin, win or lose. This is safest and best for beginners.
4. Bet Outside
Beginners should bet outside bets such as red/black or odd/even. These almost always have a 50% chance of winning and are low-risk.
Table Etiquette and Tips
Etiquette knowledge at the roulette table enhances your game and others’.
- Wait your turn: Bet prior to the dealer’s “no more bets.”
- Do not touch chips once betting is closed.
- Tip the dealer: For winning a jackpot or expressing gratitude for service rendered.
- Keep drinks away from the betting zone to prevent spillage.
- Do not utilize standard casino chips on the roulette table.
- Ask questions: Dealers are generally happy to instruct you on the game if you are inexperienced.
- Chasing losses: It’s so easy to fall into the pattern of raising stakes when losing. Set limits and adhere to them.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Chasing losses: It’s easy to fall into the trap of increasing bets after a loss. Set limits and stick to them.
- Betting on too many inside bets: While the payouts are tempting, the risk is high.
- Ignoring the house edge: Always remember the odds slightly favor the casino.
- Playing American roulette when European is available: The extra zero in American roulette increases the house edge.
Read More:
Mostbet Official Online Betting Site in India 2025
What Is a Casino Game in Gambling?
Final Thoughts
Roulette is a traditional casino game that offers simplicity with thrill. It doesn’t need complex rules or mathematics, so it is accessible to serious and adventurous gamblers alike. Knowing about betting options, bankroll, and simple etiquette rules, you can play without apprehension.
Whether you win big or not, roulette will be a social, social, and thrilling experience. And don’t forget, the right way to play roulette is to play it as entertainment—and not the road to riches.
The next time you visit a casino and hear the spin of the wheel and clickety-clack of the ball, sit down, put your bets in, and enjoy!