How to Play Roulette: A Beginner’s Guide to Mastering the Roulette Table
Mastering the Roulette Table with Winning Strategies
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, understanding how to play roulette and master the roulette table can improve your chances of success and make the game even more enjoyable.
From learning the basics to exploring the best casino roulette strategies, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about playing roulette online and in land-based casinos.
Understanding the Basics of Roulette and Mastering the Roulette Table
How do you play roulette for beginners? The roulette game is built around a spinning wheel and a betting table. The wheel has numbered pockets (usually 0-36) and players place bets on where they think the ball will land.
There are different versions of casino roulette games, but the most popular ones are:
European Roulette
This version features a single zero (0), giving it a lower house edge (2.7%) compared to American Roulette. Because of this, it is often considered the best option for players looking for better odds.
American Roulette
Played with both a single zero (0) and a double zero (00), this variation has a higher house edge (5.26%), making it slightly less favourable for players. However, it remains popular in many casinos, especially in the United States.
French Roulette
Very similar to European Roulette, but with unique rules like La Partage and En Prison, which benefit the player. If you place an even-money bet (like red/black) and the ball lands on zero, La Partage returns half your bet, while En Prison allows you to keep your bet for another spin. These rules further reduce the house edge, making French Roulette the most player-friendly version. No matter which version you play, the goal remains the same… predict where the ball will land and place your bets accordingly.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Play Roulette
If you are new to roulette online or in a physical casino, follow these steps to get started
Place Your Bet
Before the dealer spins the wheel, you need to place your chips on the roulette table. There are different types of bets you can make:
Inside Bets (higher payouts, lower odds)
Straight-up (single number)
Split (two numbers)
Street (three numbers)
Corner (four numbers)
Outside Bets (lower payouts, higher odds)
Red or Black
Odd or Even
1-18 (low numbers) or 19-36 (high numbers)
Dozens and columns
Spin the Roulette Wheel
Once all bets are placed, the dealer (or game
software in online roulette) spins the wheel and releases a small ball. The ball will land in one of the numbered pockets.
Check the Winning Number
If the ball lands on a number you bet on, you win!
The dealer pays out the winnings and the next round begins. If your bet loses, you can try again in the next spin.
Best Strategies for Betting on the Roulette Table Results, Let’s Spin the Roulette Wheel!
While roulette is a game of chance, using a roulette strategy can help you manage your bets and increase your chances of winning. What are the best strategies for betting on the roulette table?
The Martingale Strategy
The Martingale strategy roulette method is one of the most well-known systems. It involves doubling your bet after each loss, with the idea that you will recover all losses when you eventually win.
Example: Bet R10, lose → Bet R20, lose → Bet R40, lose → Bet R80, win → Profit.
Works best for even-money bets (red/black, odd/even).
High-risk, requires a large bankroll.
Reverse Martingale Strategy
This is the opposite of the Martingale strategy. Instead of doubling after a loss, you double after a win, maximising hot streaks.
The Fibonacci Strategy
This system follows the Fibonacci sequence (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8…) where you increase your bet based on previous losses. It is a slower, more conservative approach compared to Martingale.
The 1-3-2-6 Betting System
A structured betting system that helps manage profits and minimise losses. If you win four bets in a row, you maximise profits, but if you lose early, you minimise losses.
There is no 100 percent winning tips for roulette, but using these best roulette strategies can help improve your gameplay.
Where to Play Roulette Online for Free and Real Money
If you are ready to try roulette online, many casinos offer both free roulette and real money options. Playing free roulette is a great way to practice before risking real cash.
Casino Name
Bonus Offer
Why Play Here?
Betway Casino
R10,000 Welcome Bonus
Great roulette selection
Jackpot City
80 Free Spins + Deposit Bonus
Fast payouts
GoldRush Casino
100% Match Bonus
Great for South African players
These casinos offer high-quality roulette games, secure transactions and exciting bonuses.
FAQ: How to Play Roulette
What are the different types of roulette games?
The three most popular roulette variants are:
European Roulette – Features a single zero (0) and a lower house edge of 2.7%.
American Roulette - Has both a single zero (0) and a double zero (00), increasing the house edge to 5.26%.
French Roulette – Similar to European Roulette but includes La Partage and En Prison rules, reducing the house edge to 1.35% on even-money bets.
How do you place a bet in roulette?
Players place bets on the roulette table before the wheel spins. Bets are divided into two categories:
Inside Bets (higher payouts, lower odds) – Single number, split, street and corner bets.
Outside Bets (lower payouts, higher odds) – Red/black, odd/even, low/high numbers, dozens and columns.
What happens after I place my bet?
Once all bets are placed:
- The dealer spins the roulette wheel and releases the ball.
- The ball lands in a numbered pocket.
- If the ball lands on a number or category you bet on, you win! The dealer then pays out winnings.
What is the best roulette strategy?
While roulette is a game of chance, strategies can help manage bets. Popular strategies include:
Martingale Strategy – Doubling your bet after each loss to recover losses.
Reverse Martingale – Doubling your bet after each win to maximise winning streaks.
Fibonacci System – A slower, calculated betting progression based on the Fibonacci sequence.
1-3-2-6 System – A structured betting method that minimises losses and maximises profits on winning streaks.
Can I play roulette for free before betting real money?
Yes! Many online casinos offer free roulette games, allowing players to practice before wagering real money.
What is the safest roulette game to play?
European and French Roulette are the best options due to their lower house edge. French Roulette is particularly player-friendly with its unique rules.
Is there a guaranteed way to win at roulette?
No. Roulette is a game of chance, and no strategy guarantees wins. However, using structured betting systems and playing European or French Roulette can improve your odds.
Where can I play roulette online for real money?
Some of the top-rated online casinos for roulette include:
- Betway Casino – Offers a R10,000 Welcome Bonus and an extensive roulette selection.
- Jackpot City – Features 80 Free Spins + a Deposit Bonus with fast payouts.
- Lottostar Casino – A great choice for South African players with a 100% Match Bonus.
Can I play live dealer roulette online?
Yes! Live dealer roulette allows you to play in real-time with professional croupiers via live streaming, offering an immersive casino experience.
How to play roulette and increase your winning chances
To boost your chances in roulette, use a roulette strategy like the Martingale strategy or Fibonacci. Playing European roulette, managing your bankroll and practicing with free roulette can also improve your odds. While no strategy guarantees wins, smart betting can enhance your gameplay.
How do I start playing roulette today?
To get started:
- Choose an online casino from our recommended list.
- Register and claim your welcome bonus.
- Play free roulette to practice or start betting real money.
- Try out different betting strategies and enjoy the game!
Final Thoughts on How to Play Roulette
Now that you know how to play roulette game, you are ready to hit the tables! Whether you are playing for fun with free roulette or aiming for big wins with real money, having a solid understanding of the game and using the best roulette strategies can enhance your experience.
Try out different strategies, practice with roulette online and enjoy the thrill of the game. Ready to spin the wheel? Play now and test your luck!