Calculating Roulette Odds

Before playing any roulette game, whether online, on live TV, via internet streaming, or even (if you've managed to get out!) in a live casino, it's important to know the odds, and to have some idea of how to calculate them. Not knowing the house edge, or constantly betting with a 1/37 chance of a win is very likely to result in a sudden loss of money far faster than you could intend. Smart roulette is possible - you just need to know the odds.

Generally speaking, as with most online, live casino games, the house has the advantage. There is no exception when it comes to roulette. In fact, they have a +5% advantage on each wheel spin. The best secret to remember is to leave the table while you are ahead; which is always easier said than done. Statistically, if you continue to play, even after you've had a successful winning streak, eventually you will give all your winnings back to the house.

Specially speaking, the house's edge is 5.26%, or so, with a slightly worse odd if one were to play a 5 number bet. Despite knowing the house has the edge, people still play and still win. Often they are drawn to the simplicity of the game. For example, while a skilled blackjack player may have an edge on the house; it takes more knowledge to become so proficient in blackjack. Roulette allows the novice to walk up and place a bet on red...black....or what he or she chooses. There are definite ways to develop strategies in roulette, but mostly people are drawn to the game for its simpleton reputation and social aspect.

The game of roulette can be very entertaining and most simply enjoy the thrill of prediction. For more serious players, strategies are refined and more fully developed. Before getting too serious about the game, play for fun to start with. Unless you are comfortable with the different types of bets and payoffs associated with them, there is no sense in playing for real money. Expect at least 8-10 hours of practice before indulging yourself into playing with real money.

The following are a few tips on improving your odds at roulette. First read everything you can about roulette. Be sure to completely understand the rules and the different types of bets. It is also helpful to print out the odds associated with each type of bet and then commit the list to memory. Understand that you are at the mercy of odds and luck in roulette. Unlike blackjack or poker where a player has the ability to learn to count cards or read poker faces, your chances lie in the hands of the little white ball. If at all possible, seek out a European Wheel. This wheel has one less number and therefore, makes your odds of winning slightly better. The house edge percentage is reduced by a couple of percentages; an advantage to you as the player.

Overall, play to have fun, aspire to win. Gain knowledge of the different kinds of roulette table such as the American wheel and the European Wheel. Educate yourself on the odds and different types of bets associated with the greatest advantage for you as a player.