In the past, roulette was a game that was reserved for the upper echelons of
casinos. It was a game that attracted quite a bias towards the rich and famous.
Although the game has become more inclusive in the past few decades - especially
with the rise of the online casino industry - roulette still remains relatively
unchanged with a proud heritage. For this reason, it is important to know the
rules and etiquette of the game very well before you venture into an online
casino to play roulette.
A roulette table can take up to eight players. Unlike a game like poker, you
will not play against other players but rather against the dealer.
With so many different players at the table, with each player placing bets
across different numbers and options, things would be very confusing if it
weren't for each player getting different colour chips.
Some casinos allow playing chips to be cashed in for money chips which can be
kept until you have finished at the table. These chips are then "cashed in" when
you log out.
Bets can be placed according to these odds:
- Straight-up bet: win 35:1
- Two-number bet: 17:1
- Three-number bet: win 11:1
- Four-number bet: 8:1
- Six-number bet: 5:1
- Outside dozen/column bets: 2:1
- Outside even money bets (Red/Black, Odd/Even and High/Low): 2:1
Furthermore, it is not just about sticking to the rules. It is about how you
play the game. There are some online casinos which offer live chat at the
roulette tables. This privilege should never be abused. If you lose after a
spin, you should do so gracefully and not interfere with how your fellow players
are playing. This said, you may not place any bets after the dealer has called
"no more bets" and you may not tamper with the table once the ball is in play,
even if you want to change your bet.
More Complex Rules
En Prison - This is a special rule that only takes place in certain casinos.
In general, if the ball lands on 0 or 00 you will automatically lose your whole
bet. However, this bet refers to bets placed on even money areas. If the ball
lands on a zero in this case, you can either lose half your bet or stay in for
the next spin with the full bet in place.
La Partage - This rule is similar in nature, but you just lose half your bet
without the option of a re-spin.
It is not only about knowing how to play. The fact remains that when you are
gambling at an online casino you are playing with real money, even if your chips
are made up of pixels. You should never lose sight of this fact. By knowing all
the rules, you will teach yourself not only to be diligent in the game but also
with how you manage your bankroll.
