Win at Roulette: Strategies & Systems for Beating the Wheel
More opinions on Roulette betting strategy exist than there are for all other casino games combined. The fact, however, is that game outcomes are based entirely on chance. No Roulette strategy can insure repeat successes because each spin of the wheel is unique and, therefore, independent of all preceding outcomes.
Still, there are several means of increasing your wins and sustaining your bankroll while playing. Below are just a few of the Roulette strategies seasoned players employ to increase their bankroll and have a winning Roulette experience.
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Roulette Strategy #1 – Choose rules and wheels wisely
The golden rule for those looking to win at Roulette is to bet only at tables whose rules and odds favor the player. Adhering to this golden rule can reduce the house edge by as much as 4%.
An example of a favorable rule is the ‘En prison’ rule, which allows players who made even money bets—odd/even or red/black—to cut their losses after a spin results in zero. When this occurs, these players may either forfeit half their original bet or stake the same bet on the next spin. This rule dramatically reduces player loss because it permits players to either a) lose half, versus all, of his wager or b) “erase” the losing spin and re-wager the initial bet as though it never happened.
In terms of finding favorable odds, the easiest means of achieving this is to play only at single zero (i.e. European) tables. The house advantage falls from 5.26% (American wheel) to 2.7% when playing at a European style table. The addition of another pocket on the wheel—the 00 pocket—just means the addition of another way to lose. Put simply, European wheels have 37 slots and American wheels have 38. It doesn’t take a math whiz to see that a 1 in 37 chance is better than 1 in 38.
Roulette Strategy #2 – Avoid the five number bet!
If you’re unable to locate a single zero table and are forced to play at an American table, at least be sure to steer clear of what is perhaps one of the worst bets in all of gambling: the five number bet. This bet, 0-00-1-2-3, has a casino advantage of 7.89%. Translation: you’ll lose….big.
Roulette Strategy #3 – Know when to say when
Perhaps the most frequently made mistake among gamblers is not knowing when to call it quits. Make certain that you establish your loss limit prior to taking a seat at the table and don’t be afraid to cash in when you’re still ahead.
A few players bet half the board each time. Other players stay with minimum bets on each spin. Find a Roulette strategy you’re comfortable with and don’t be swayed by the excitement around the table.
Roulette Strategy #4 – Find a system that works for you
The truth of the matter is that you can’t do anything to ensure you will always win at Roulette. Many a Roulette strategy claims to have the winning Roulette secret. But, as mentioned earlier, each game outcome is entirely separate and apart from earlier outcomes. Do not be lured by schemes that appear valid on paper. Usually, they don’t work so well in the real world.
That said, you’ve probably heard the hype surrounding a few of the better known variations on Roulette betting strategy and are curious about their parameters. So, in the interest of general knowledge, the two most common are listed and explained below.
Roulette Betting Strategy #1 – Martingale
When it comes to Roulette systems, Martingale is the name to know. This basic betting system is standard negative progression theory as its core. It requires that for every bet you lose, you double the amount wagered on your next bet. The idea is that when you finally win, your return offsets your previous losses. The operative word here is finally because, unless you’re Donald Trump, you’ll likely be in the poor house before you win big.
Roulette Betting Strategy #2 – D’Alembert
D’Alembert is different from Martingale in that it requires you increase your bet by a small fraction when you lose and decrease it by a small fraction after a win. This means the progression is linear rather than exponential (for all the above mentioned math whizzes). Most positive progression theories are based on this idea. But, once again, it must be said that there are no real probabilities in Roulette, so profits are never guaranteed.
Roulette Strategy #4 – Find a system that works for you
Now that you know the various types of Roulette strategy, the question becomes, “Do you believe the hype?” Among traditionalists, die-hards and casual players, there is much disagreement. Some believe Roulette strategy can be employed to choose higher-paying bets; some believe the correct Roulette betting strategy can offset your losses; still others maintain that all of the above is worthless and placing faith in lady luck is the only Roulette strategy any player can truly count on.
Whichever camp you fall into, knowing the differences among Roulette strategy types is important, even if you don’t employ them. Good luck at the tables!