Roulette has offered glamour, mystery and excitement to casino-goers since the 17th century. While the game seems straightforward, a deeper look at its rules and odds reveals a level of depth that provides high rewards for serious players. The first step is to choose the type of bet you want to place. Each table carries a placard listing the minimum and maximum bets allowed. Once you decide on a table, give the dealer money and ask for “colour”. They will then give you coloured chips with a value equal to the table’s minimum bet. This system allows each player to keep track of his or her bets and prevents spouses from betting together.

Once play starts, the dealer spins the wheel and a small ball is thrown onto the numbered portion of the table. The ball spins around the wheel, bouncing and jumping until it settles on a number. If you have placed a bet on that number, you win. If you have bet on a grouping of numbers, such as the first or second dozen, or on whether the number is red or black, or odd or even, or within certain value ranges, you also win. The house edge on these bets is higher than on outside bets.

Some players use strategies to try to beat the house. A quick search of Google reveals millions of systems for playing (and supposedly winning) roulette, some easy and others complex.

In the end, however, it is impossible to overcome the mathematical odds of a subfair game. The only way to make money is to bet correctly, which requires understanding the game’s rules and knowing the different bet types.

The best way to prepare is to visit the roulette tables before you go to the casino, and choose a table that matches your budget. Each table will have a placard that lists the minimum and maximum bets, which are usually related to the size of bets placed on inside and outside bets. Choose a table that offers you the best chance of winning with your budget, and stick to it!

Finally, practice at home to learn the game’s rules and the odds of different bet types. This will help you feel confident when playing at a live casino. Once you’re ready, take a friend with you and head to your nearest casino! You’ll find that most of the dealers and croupiers are very helpful, so don’t be afraid to ask for assistance. Good luck!