Roulette is amongst the most popular and traditional table casino games around, and it has been for centuries. There aren’t too many variations, but that is why punters love it – it’s a staple even novice gamblers know at least something about, even if they aren’t quite sure how to play it.
Where Did It All Start?
Scientist and mathematician, Blaise Pascal was investigating ways in which one could create a machine that would be in constant motion in the mid-1600s. In fact, there is much evidence to suggest that this type of machine was even around during Leonardo da Vinci’s time, although not as fully formed as Pascal’s. He too did not quite achieve a turbine that was perpetually in motion, but he did create the design for the roulette wheel.
Roulette, from its inception, has always had connotations of class, sophistication, and elegance. Not to mention the thrill and adrenaline rush when the dealer spins that wheel, or the ball starts to slow down.
Taking the time to learn how it’s played, and the strategies employed, slowly but surely everyone eventually can learn how to play roulette.
Let’s discuss why some people love to play roulette, even if the rules and strategy are a little foggy.
Fun Variations
There are two popular versions of roulette – European and American. The main tangible difference is the way the wheel looks. American roulette has a total of 38 slots numbered 1 to 36, zero and double zero.
European roulette has a total of 37 slots numbered 1 to 36 and a zero.
There is another version that originated in California, where cards are used instead of a roulette wheel, and the rules slightly differ, and a newer one in Las Vegas called Triple 0 roulette.
Of all of these, European Roulette is the easiest and has the best odds for beginner punters.
If You Love Science, Roulette Loves You
The roulette wheel came about, as mentioned, by a scientist attempting to invent a machine that would be in perpetual motion.
So, you can say there is physics involved as the ball is rolling one way (usually by the dealer’s hand if it’s live or land-based), the wheel is spinning in the opposite direction to the ball, and gravity occurs when the ball eventually finds a slot.
We’re not saying this is a way to win, as it will take years of scientific and mathematical study, but it’s still fun to watch and try to guess where the ball will land.
You Can Study the Game – Carefully
Unlike other casino games, where the casino is very wary of people talking notes (to make sure no cheating is occurring), casinos really don’t mind if you watch as many games of roulette as you like before you play.
If you are playing online, you can even get access to free practice games that you can use to try out different strategies.
Odds Aren’t Bad for Beginners
There are so many ways to bet in roulette – outside and inside bets, odd and even numbers, red or black or even zero or double zero depending on the version. You do not have to bet on a single number for every spin.
For example, in American roulette, there are 2 green slots (zero and double zero) and 36 numbers that are going to be black or red and even and odd. This means out of the 38 numbers, you can potentially bet on 18 numbers during one bet or spin.
This gives you an almost 50% chance of winning – which isn’t bad for a casino table game at all.
Convenient and Fun
Playing online is not only a great way to get your thrills and entertainment, but you can also have something very similar to a real casino experience these days with live dealer games. The graphics and sound are immersive, and you don’t have to leave the comfort of your home or your pajamas if you don’t want to.
The best part? You get great sign-up bonuses, cool rewards and even free cash-play or points depending on the casino you choose.
The only thing you must be aware of as a first-time online player is that there will be terms and conditions, and there are some states where online gambling is still illegal.
Now you know why roulette is so popular, so next time you pass by a table or see it at your favorite online casino, why not give it a go?