Mastering the Basics: What Every New Player Should Know Before Trying Roulette Games
Are you new to roulette? Perhaps it seems like an overwhelming game if so… but it’s also highly alluring, encouraging many people to check it out and learn how to play. There’s something about those red and black numbers that evoke a sense of passion and daring, encouraging us to try them out.
Roulette is a game of many different kinds of bets and fast-paced action, usually without much guidance from other players or the croupier. However, once you get the basics under your belt, playing roulette is a fabulous pastime.
If you’re a table-game-lover, roulette could well be a match for you. However, before you can start, whether you want to play at a physical casino or an online one, you’ve got to master the layout, odds, and types of bets.
Understanding the Layout
The first thing you’ll notice when you hit the tables and start playing roulette is the array of numbers you are presented with. The numbers from 0 (maybe even 00 depending on the version you’re playing) through to 36 are laid out around the roulette wheel, the red numbers alternating with the black ones, and the 0s in green. It might seem daunting at first, but actually, it doesn’t take long to get to grips with it and figure out what kinds of bets are open to you.
Plus, playing online roulette can feel rather less daunting than in person. You aren’t pressured by other players, time constraints, or the croupier spinning the wheel before you’re ready. If you want a bit more thinking time, you’ve got it! The layout at an online casino is no different from what you’ll find in traditional casinos, which makes this a great place to learn more about the game. In fact, when you play online roulette, you can easily try it first in demo mode. This is a good way to try out different bets without risk, offering a hands-on learning option.
Online Roulette: A Great Starting Point
Another great thing about learning online is that you’ll find all kinds of tutorials waiting for you! You can read forums or watch YouTube videos that will explain every element of this game.
Many online casinos also provide tips and strategies themselves. For example, Ignition Casino offers a video guide on roulette strategies. It provides a sound basis for practical approaches to roulette, getting you started with the game – although you should definitely get some hands-on experience in the demo mode too.
More experienced individuals can also find tips and advice online, connecting with other roulette fans to compare betting strategies. If you’re nervous about playing roulette at a physical casino, this approach can really help!
Knowing Your Odds and Bet Types
At the roulette table, there are several different bets you can make, and their odds are quite varied. For instance, if you lay down money on just one number, you’re faced with low payout odds but a high reward if you do happen to get lucky. On the other hand, if you bet on a color like red or black or a group of numbers like dozens and columns, you’ve got better odds of winning. You’ll have to settle for lower payouts, though, as a result.
If you are a beginner, it is important to start with the simplest bets first (odds or evens, or black or red). These are the safest options, offering almost a 50/50 chance of winning. Then, as your experience grows and you gain confidence, explore more complex varieties of roulette betting, such as straight-up or split bets. These carry greater risk and higher rewards!
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
As exciting as roulette is, there are a few common mistakes that new players often make. One of the most typical is putting down too much money with too little thought. It’s possible to become caught up in the fever of play and forget that roulette is a game of chance. Keep to your budget and avoid placing high-risk bets early on.
Another common pitfall is misunderstanding the house edge. While it may be tempting to chase large wins, the casino always holds the advantage, especially in American roulette, because of the addition of the double zero. Be realistic in your expectations and play primarily for fun.
Enjoying Roulette As a Game
Roulette can be a highly enjoyable pastime, thanks to its fast-paced, unpredictable nature and the lack of effort required from the players. You don’t have to strategize or read people – you just decide what you’re betting on and watch the wheel spin. Hopefully, you now have a good sense of the roulette table layout and know about different kinds of bets before you can play with confidence, but here’s a quick recap:
| Bet Type | Odds | Payout |
| Straight-up Bet | 1 in 37 (or 38 in American) | 35:1 |
| Red/Black | 18 in 37 (or 38) | 1:1 |
| Even/Odd | 18 in 37 (or 38) | 1:1 |
| Dozens | 12 in 37 (or 38) | 2:1 |
