American Roulette is a popular casino game that combines luck and strategy. Played on a wheel with 38 pockets, which includes a single zero (0) and a double zero (00), the aim of the game is to predict where the ball will land. Here, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to help you play with confidence, from the basic rules to the types of bets that can be placed.
How American Roulette Works
In American Roulette, the wheel has 38 pockets numbered 1 to 36, plus the single zero (0) and double zero (00). Numbers 1 to 36 are alternate red and black, while the zeroes are green. Before the ball is spun, players place their bets on the table. If the ball lands in a pocket that matches their bet, they win an amount corresponding to the payout odds.
Types of Bets in American Roulette
In American Roulette, there are two main categories of bets: inside bets and outside bets.
- Inside Bets: These focus on individual numbers or smaller combinations of numbers within the inside area of the betting table.
- Outside Bets: These cover larger groups of numbers and are typically located around the outside edges of the betting table.
Inside Bets
While inside bets offer better odds, your chances of winning are much lower. Here are the main types:
- Straight-Up Bet: A bet on a single number, with odds of 35/1.
- Split Bet: A bet on two adjacent numbers, with odds of 17/1.
- Street Bet: A bet on three numbers in a horizontal row, with odds of 11/1.
- Corner Bet: A bet on four numbers in a square layout, with odds of 8/1.
- Six Line Bet: A bet on two adjacent rows of three numbers, with odds of 5/1.
The Top Line Bet
The Top Line Bet is unique to American Roulette. This wager covers the numbers 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3, and has odds of 6/1. While this bet covers more numbers than other inside bets, it increases the house edge due to the inclusion of the double zero.
Outside Bets
Outside bets cover larger sections of the table and are generally easier to win, although they do have lower odds. Here are the main types of outside bets:
- Red or Black: A bet on the color of the winning number, with odds of 1/1.
- Odd or Even: A bet on whether the winning number will be odd or even, odds of 1/1.
- Low (1-18) or High (19-36): A bet on whether the winning number will be low or high, odds of 1/1.
- Dozen Bet: A bet on one of three groups of twelve numbers (1-12, 13-24, 25-36), with odds of 2 /1.
- Column Bet: A bet on one of the three columns of twelve numbers on the table, with odds of 2/1.
Winning Odds for Each Bet
In American Roulette, each type of bet has specific winning odds. This is represented as a percentage. With 38 pockets on the wheel, including the single and double zero, here’s a breakdown:
- Straight-Up Bet (1 number): Winning odds = 1/38 ≈ 2.63%
- Split Bet (2 numbers): Winning odds = 2/38 ≈ 5.26%
- Street Bet (3 numbers): Winning odds = 3/38 ≈ 7.89%
- Corner Bet (4 numbers): Winning odds = 4/38 ≈ 10.53%
- Top Line Bet (5 numbers): Winning odds = 5/38 ≈ 13.16%
- Six Line Bet (6 numbers): Winning odds = 6/38 ≈ 15.79%
- Column and Dozen Bets (12 numbers): Winning odds = 12/38 ≈ 31.58%
- Even-Money Bets (18 numbers): Winning odds = 18/38 ≈ 47.37%
House Edge in American Roulette
Due to the inclusion of the single and double zero, the house edge for most American Roulette bets is 5.26%. The Top Line Bet has a slightly higher house edge at 7.89%, making it less favorable. This edge means that, over time, the casino keeps an average of around 5.26% of all bets placed.
Placing Your Bets
To place your bets, simply place your chips on the corresponding areas of the betting table. Inside bets usually require a minimum bet per chip, while outside bets often accept smaller wagers. Understanding the different bet types can help you make more informed decisions and increase your chances of success.
Roulette Chips: In-Person and Online
In American Roulette, players use color-coded chips specific to each player, helping dealers track bets and make accurate payouts. These chips are purchased at the table and come in set denominations, such as $1, $5, or $25. Each chip is marked with a unique color. Once finished, players can exchange any remaining chips for cash.
In online casinos, chips are virtual in nature but follow the same principles. Players select chip denominations on screen, and bets are placed by clicking on the virtual table. Many online platforms offer a range of chip values to suit various budgets, and winnings are automatically calculated and added to the player’s balance.
Tips for Beginners
For beginners, it’s often wise to start with outside bets like red/black or odd/even. These offer better winning odds. Be sure to manage your finances carefully, and certainly avoid high-risk bets until you’re more comfortable with the game. Remember, roulette is a game of pure luck, so play responsibly and enjoy the experience.
Online American Roulette
American Roulette is a popular option in online casinos, offering both real-money bets and, in some cases, a free play mode for practice purposes. Every online casino provides a help menu where players can review the game rules and learn about the different types of bets available. This free play mode allows new players to familiarize themselves with the game and try out strategies without risking real money.
Free Demo Play for American Roulette
If you’re new to American Roulette or want to practice without any financial risk, many online platforms offer free demo versions. Demo play allows you to explore the game rules, test out various betting strategies, and understand the payout odds in a risk-free environment. It’s an excellent way to gain confidence and learn more about the game.
Demo games closely replicate the real-money experience, with standard betting options, realistic graphics, and authentic gameplay. What better way to enjoy the thrill of the roulette wheel without spending any money. Once you feel ready, switching to a real-money game is also straightforward.