Roulette is one of the most popular casino games, found in most gambling establishments. It is a simple game based on chance and offers multiple betting options, making it ideal for players of all skill levels. The first step to playing roulette is understanding the odds of each type of bet. This will help you determine the best strategy for your personal style of play.

The roulette wheel consists of a static bowl and a rotating wheelhead with numbered pockets in the outer edge. The numbers are randomized and alternate between red and black, as well as odd and even. The pockets are also varying sizes, with some deeper than others. The game is named after the French word for little wheel, and the earliest known version of it dates back to the 17th century. It is believed to have been invented by French mathematician Blaise Pascal.

After the dealer clears the table of winning bets, he or she will spin the wheel and throw the ball. The player can continue placing their bets until the dealer announces “no more bets.” Once the ball stops spinning, the croupier will place a marker on the number of the winning bet. This process is repeated each round of the game.

There are two main bets in roulette: Outside bets and Inside bets. Outside bets are placed on a group of numbers, such as the first 18 numbers (1-18), or a specific range of numbers (second or third dozen). The payout for these types of bets is 1:1. Inside bets, on the other hand, are placed on individual numbers. These bets have a higher house edge but offer larger payouts.

It’s important to understand the odds of each bet type before you start wagering, as this will help you predict the outcome of a game. It is also helpful to know which bets have a lower house edge than others. If you can find a bet type that suits your personal style of play, it can lead to long-term success.

The odds of hitting a single number on a straight bet are 37 to 1 but the payout is only 35 to 1. This discrepancy is how the house gets its huge edge in roulette.