Rules of Roulette Casino Games – Roulette is one of the most recognizable casino games in the world, known for its spinning wheel, numbered pockets, and simple betting layout. While the game appears straightforward, it follows a clear set of rules that determine how bets are placed, how outcomes are decided, and how payouts work. Understanding these rules helps explain how roulette functions in both land-based and online casinos.
1. Basic Structure of the Game
Roulette consists of three main elements: the wheel, the ball, and the betting table. The wheel is divided into numbered pockets, typically ranging from 0 to 36. Players place bets on the table layout, predicting where the ball will land once the wheel stops spinning. After bets are placed, the dealer spins the wheel and releases the ball, and the winning number is announced.
2. Types of Roulette Wheels
There are several common variations of roulette, each with slightly different rules:
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European Roulette has numbers 1–36 and a single zero (0).
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American Roulette includes numbers 1–36 plus a single zero (0) and a double zero (00).
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French Roulette is similar to European roulette but includes additional betting rules and terminology.
The number of zero pockets affects the overall structure of the game and is an important rule difference between variations.
3. Betting Rules
Before the wheel is spun, players must place their bets within a designated betting period. Once the dealer announces that betting is closed, no additional bets or changes are allowed. Bets are placed by positioning chips on specific areas of the table layout, each representing a different type of prediction.
4. Types of Bets
Roulette bets are generally divided into two categories:
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Inside Bets: These are placed on specific numbers or small groups of numbers, such as a single number or a split between two numbers.
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Outside Bets: These cover larger groups of numbers, such as red or black, odd or even, or high and low ranges.
Each bet type has defined payout rules, which are determined by how many numbers the bet covers.
5. Payout Rules
Payouts in roulette are fixed according to the type of bet placed. Bets that cover fewer numbers typically offer higher payouts, while bets covering more numbers offer lower payouts. The casino pays winnings based on the table’s posted payout structure, and losing bets are collected after each round.
6. House Rules and Fairness
Casinos operate roulette games using regulated procedures to ensure fairness. Online roulette games often use Random Number Generator (RNG) systems, while live roulette uses real wheels and dealers. Licensed casinos are subject to audits and oversight to confirm that results are random and unbiased.
7. Betting Limits
Roulette tables usually have minimum and maximum betting limits. These limits vary by platform and table type and are enforced to manage gameplay and maintain consistency.
8. Responsible Play Considerations
Roulette rules also include responsible play features on many platforms, such as time limits, betting caps, or self-control tools. These rules encourage informed and balanced participation.