Roullete (from French, meaning little wheel) is a casino game in which a ball rolls around a revolving wheel and bets are made on the number or types of numbers that it will land on. It is one of the most popular casino games, and has been a staple in casinos since the 17th century. While it may seem simple and straightforward, the game has a surprising level of depth for serious players and can reap high rewards with the right strategy.
The game is played on a special table with a revolving roulette wheel in the center. A small ball is spun to come to rest in one of 38 compartments on the wheel. Bets can be placed on the individual numbers, various groupings of numbers, colors red or black, odd or even, and whether the number is high or low. A winning bet is paid out according to the odds, which are determined by the placement of chips on the betting layout.
While there are many fanciful theories as to the origin of the game, it is clear that it was developed from earlier games such as hoca and portique, which were popular in French gambling dens. The modern roulette wheel and betting table were first patented in France in the early 18th century, and it quickly became a top attraction in European casinos and gambling houses.
There are several variations of the game, including American roulette, which has two green pockets instead of one for a 0 and 00. This increases the house edge, but it is still relatively low for a casino game.
Roulette has long been considered a glamorous, mystery-laden game that adds excitement to any casino visit. It is also a very easy game to play and offers a variety of wagering options, from basic straight bets to more complicated exotic bets.
Before you start playing, it is important to establish a budget and stick to it. Each roulette table carries a placard with its minimum and maximum betting limits. It is important to choose a table within this range, and be sure not to dip into your winnings to make future bets.