Roulette Rules Guide
Introduction
Roulette is one of the most iconic and elegant casino games in the world. Known as the “Queen of Casino Games,” it is simple to learn, thrilling to play, and perfect for both beginners and experienced players. In this guide, you’ll discover the essential rules of roulette, how the wheel and table work, the types of bets available, and the main game variants.
The Roulette Wheel and Table Layout
The roulette wheel is divided into numbered pockets.
- In European and French roulette, there are 37 pockets: numbers 1–36 and a single zero (0).
- In American roulette, there are 38 pockets: numbers 1–36, zero (0), and double zero (00).
The table layout mirrors the wheel, giving players multiple betting options. Numbers are organized in rows and columns, while additional areas allow for bets on red/black, odd/even, or ranges of numbers.
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How the Game Works
The gameplay in roulette is straightforward and follows three main steps:
- Players place their chips on the betting layout, choosing numbers, colors, or groups of numbers.
- The dealer spins the wheel and launches the small white ball in the opposite direction.
- When the ball lands in a pocket, the winning number and color are announced. Bets that match the outcome are paid according to the payout table.
Inside Bets
Placed directly on numbers or small groups of numbers:
- Straight Up – a single number (pays 35:1)
- Split – two adjacent numbers (pays 17:1)
- Street – three numbers in a row (pays 11:1)
- Corner – four numbers in a square (pays 8:1)
- Six Line – six numbers in two adjacent rows (pays 5:1)
Outside Bets
Placed on larger categories with higher winning chances but lower payouts:
- Red / Black – bet on the color of the winning number (pays 1:1)
- Odd / Even – whether the number will be odd or even (pays 1:1)
- High / Low – 1–18 vs. 19–36 (pays 1:1)
- Dozen – choose 12-number sets (pays 2:1)
- Column – one of three vertical columns (pays 2:1)
Roulette Payouts Table
| Bet Type | Numbers Covered | Payout | Probability (European) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Straight Up | 1 | 35:1 | 2.70% |
| Split | 2 | 17:1 | 5.41% |
| Street | 3 | 11:1 | 8.11% |
| Corner | 4 | 8:1 | 10.81% |
| Six Line | 6 | 5:1 | 16.22% |
| Dozen | 12 | 2:1 | 32.43% |
| Column | 12 | 2:1 | 32.43% |
| Red/Black | 18 | 1:1 | 48.65% |
| Odd/Even | 18 | 1:1 | 48.65% |
| High/Low | 18 | 1:1 | 48.65% |
Main Variants of Roulette
Inside Bets
Placed directly on numbers or small groups of numbers:
- Straight Up – a single number (pays 35:1)
- Split – two adjacent numbers (pays 17:1)
- Street – three numbers in a row (pays 11:1)
- Corner – four numbers in a square (pays 8:1)
- Six Line – six numbers in two adjacent rows (pays 5:1)
Outside Bets
Placed on larger categories with higher winning chances but lower payouts:
- Red / Black – bet on the color of the winning number (pays 1:1)
- Odd / Even – whether the number will be odd or even (pays 1:1)
- High / Low – 1–18 vs. 19–36 (pays 1:1)
- Dozen – choose 12-number sets (pays 2:1)
- Column – one of three vertical columns (pays 2:1)
Roulette Payouts Table
| Bet Type | Numbers Covered | Payout | Probability (European) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Straight Up | 1 | 35:1 | 2.70% |
| Split | 2 | 17:1 | 5.41% |
| Street | 3 | 11:1 | 8.11% |
| Corner | 4 | 8:1 | 10.81% |
| Six Line | 6 | 5:1 | 16.22% |
| Dozen | 12 | 2:1 | 32.43% |
| Column | 12 | 2:1 | 32.43% |
| Red/Black | 18 | 1:1 | 48.65% |
| Odd/Even | 18 | 1:1 | 48.65% |
| High/Low | 18 | 1:1 | 48.65% |
Main Variants of Roulette
- European Roulette – single zero, house edge of 2.7%.
- American Roulette – single zero + double zero, house edge of 5.26%.
- French Roulette – single zero, with special rules La Partage and En Prison, house edge of 1.35% on even-money bets.
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Comparison Table
| Variant | Pockets | Special Feature | House Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| European | 37 (1–36 + 0) | Single zero | 2.7% |
| American | 38 (1–36 + 0, 00) | Double zero | 5.26% |
| French | 37 (1–36 + 0) | La Partage / En Prison rules | 1.35% |
Quick Tips for Beginners
- Start with outside bets for safer gameplay.
- Take time to learn the wheel sequence — it’s not in numerical order.
- Set a budget before you play and avoid chasing losses.
- Remember that roulette is a game of chance — no strategy guarantees a win.
Recommended Tools
Before you start playing, use our calculators to understand real odds and payouts for every bet type.
Roulette Odds Calculator
Choose roulette type and bet to get exact winning probabilities and house edge.
Open Odds CalculatorRoulette Payouts Calculator
Enter stake and bet type to see profit, total return, probability and ROI.
Open Payouts CalculatorConclusion
Roulette is easy to understand but offers endless excitement. By learning the basic rules, wheel layout, bet types, and main game variants, you can approach the table with confidence. Whether you’re playing European, American, or French roulette, the game delivers a unique blend of suspense, luck, and style.
FAQ – Roulette Rules
Is roulette easy to learn?
Yes, roulette is one of the easiest casino games. The rules are simple, and you can start playing after just a few minutes of practice.
What is the difference between European and American roulette?
European roulette has 37 pockets (0–36) and a lower house edge (2.7%). American roulette adds a double zero (00), raising the house edge to 5.26%.
Can I win more with inside or outside bets?
Inside bets offer higher payouts but lower odds of winning. Outside bets pay less but win more often, making them safer for beginners.
What is La Partage in French roulette?
La Partage is a rule that refunds half your bet when the ball lands on zero, but only for even-money bets. This lowers the house edge to 1.35%.
What is the minimum I should know before playing roulette?
Learn the basic bet types, know your budget, and start with outside bets like Red/Black or Odd/Even for safer play.