Roullete (pronounced “roh-let”) is a casino game in which a ball is spun around a numbered wheel. Bets can be placed on a single number, various groupings of numbers, red or black, odd or even, and high or low. A player wins if the ball drops into one of their bets. A croupier spins the wheel and a small white ball is thrown onto it while it’s in motion. The croupier then calls out a winning number and pays out the player’s wagered chips.
The wheel consists of 38 pockets, with the numbers randomized across the circumference. The pockets are painted alternately red and black, except for a single zero pocket in European roulette, or an additional 00 on American wheels. The pockets are separated by metal partitions, called separators or frets. Each one has a number, from 1 to 36 on European-style wheels and, on American-style wheels, a sign 0 and two green compartments labeled 0 and 00.
Before you play, learn the different types of bets. Outside bets are broader wagers that cover an entire category of numbers and typically offer higher odds of winning, but lower payouts. Inside bets, on the other hand, are narrower bets that are specific to a single number or a range of numbers.
Dozens Bet: Known as douzaine in French, this bet is based on whether the winning number falls within the first dozen (1-18), the second dozen (19-36), or both. The house gets an edge on this bet because it doesn’t include the 0 and 00, which aren’t either red or black and therefore don’t qualify as odd or even numbers. This bet offers a payout of 2-1. Street Bet/Three Number Bet/Side Bet/The Trio: This bet is a classic that works well for beginners, as you’re betting on three consecutive numbers. You place your chip(s) to straddle the line between two rows on the layout and if you win, your payout is 17-1.