A game of chance played on a table with a revolving wheel. It has compartments, or pockets, numbered 1 to 36 (or 38 on American wheels), with two green compartments marked 0 and 00.

Players place chips on the table, waiting for the croupier to spin the wheel. They can bet on either inside or outside bets, with the latter having a lower chance of success.

Origin

The origin of roulette is not entirely clear. However, it is likely that the modern version of the game originated in France in the 1700’s, when it was introduced to gambling houses in Paris. The game became popular amongst French aristocracy due to its ability to offer a high degree of entertainment for a relatively low cost. It is also believed to have been influenced by older games such as portique, hoca and bassette, as well as the Greek game roly poly.

Some historians have attributed the invention of the roulette wheel to 17th-century mathematician Blaise Pascal. Others suggest that it evolved from a board game called Biribi, which was played in Italy around the same time. Alternatively, it is possible that roulette came from the ancient Chinese, and was transmitted to Europe by Dominican monks who visited China as part of their travels.

Variations

Roulette variations can add a new dimension to this classic game. They are based on different betting rules and additional bets. These changes can increase the odds of winning or losing. Choosing the right version of a Roulette game depends on the player’s skill level and experience. If you’re a beginner, stick to the European format that features a single zero and a friendly house edge. However, you can also try out a more adventurous variant such as Key Bet Roulette which offers prizes from additional bets.