Curious about how to play online roulette but not sure where to start? You’re not alone, everyone has to start somewhere. In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of the game, common betting strategies, and common pitfalls that new players fall into, all from real-world experience with online casinos in Canada.
How We Put This Guide Together
This guide aims to make online roulette accessible and enjoyable by addressing the following areas:
- Game Rules & Variants: We break down the rules and popular variants of roulette.
- Practical Strategies: We offer practical advice and strategies that can be applied immediately.
- Odds & House Edge: We point out the odds and house edge of each variant to help you make an informed decision.
- User Experience: We evaluate online platforms for ease of use and smooth gameplay.
Our aim is to give you practical advice in a non-technical manner, making roulette easy to understand for all levels.
About author
Cody Aceveda has been writing about casino games and gambling strategies for Canadian readers since 2018. His articles are dedicated to explaining the rules of various games, probability, and responsible gambling. This guide is based on personal experience with roulette games on licensed sites and official rules of popular software companies.
The Roulette Wheel Structure
Before you start playing, it’s important to understand the structure of the roulette wheel. The wheel itself determines the outcome of each spin, and knowing the differences between the types of roulette can help you make better decisions.
European Roulette: This roulette wheel has 37 pockets, numbered from 1 to 36 (alternating between red and black), and one green pocket marked zero.
American Roulette: The American roulette wheel has 38 pockets, with an additional green pocket marked double zero (00) alongside the numbers 1 to 36.
French Roulette: This is similar to the European roulette wheel, but it may also come with some other rules that may influence your betting choices, such as the “La Partage” or “En Prison” rules.
Key Concept: Each spin of the roulette wheel is an independent event, and the result of the previous spin does not influence the outcome of the next spin.How does the roulette wheel work?
The roulette table displays all possible betting options, ranging from individual numbers to group numbers such as red/black or even/odd. In online roulette, players choose the values of the chips and click on the areas to place bets. Players can place multiple bets in one spin, and the results are determined by the ball after the betting closes
How Random Number Generators Work in Online Roulette
The Random Number Generator (RNG) roulette game relies on computer algorithms to simulate the spinning of the wheel, and the outcome is produced through complex mathematical equations. Online casinos use licensed RNGs, which are tested by third-party agencies such as eCOGRA, iTech Labs, or GLI. These organizations verify that:
- Outcomes are statistically random and unpredictable
- The distribution of results matches theoretical probability over large sample sizes
- The RNG cannot be manipulated or predicted by players or operators
The RNG certification reports can be published by the casino or the testing lab. In a regulated market such as Ontario, the RNG testing is mandatory as per iGaming Ontario.
Misconception: Online roulette does not have “hot” and “cold” numbers. Every spin is an independent event, and the results of previous spins do not influence future results.
Understanding house edge
The house edge is the mathematical advantage that the casino has over the players. In European roulette, the house edge is 2.7%, and in American roulette with two zeros, the house edge is 5.26%. This means that for every $100 bet, the average loss will be $2.70 in European roulette or $5.26 in American roulette. There is no betting system that can beat the house edge
Types of Roulette Bets and Payouts
Roulette offers two main categories of bets: inside bets (on specific numbers or small groups) and outside bets (on larger groups or characteristics).
Inside bets
| Bet Type | Description | Numbers Covered | Payout | Probability (European) |
| Straight Up | Single number | 1 | 35:1 | 2.7% |
| Split | Two adjacent numbers | 2 | 17:1 | 5.4% |
| Street | Row of three numbers | 3 | 11:1 | 8.1% |
| Corner | Four numbers forming a square | 4 | 8:1 | 10.8% |
| Six Line | Two adjacent rows | 6 | 5:1 | 16.2% |
Outside bets
| Bet Type | Description | Numbers Covered | Payout | Probability (European) |
| Red or Black | All red or all black numbers | 18 | 1:1 | 48.6% |
| Even or Odd | All even or all odd numbers | 18 | 1:1 | 48.6% |
| High or Low | 1-18 or 19-36 | 18 | 1:1 | 48.6% |
| Dozen | 1-12, 13-24, or 25-36 | 12 | 2:1 | 32.4% |
| Column | One of three vertical columns | 12 | 2:1 | 32.4% |
Each type of standard roulette bet has the same house edge per spin (2.7% for European roulette, 5.26% for American roulette). More expensive bets with higher payouts, such as straight-up bets, are not “riskier” in terms of house edge; they’re just less likely to win.
Understanding the Different types of roulette
There are primarily three variations: European, American, and French. Each has its unique layout and house edge. Here are a few key differences between each variant:
| Game Features | French Roulette | European Roulette | American Roulette |
| Wheel Layout | Single Zero (0) | Single Zero (0) | Single Zero (0) and Double Zero (00) |
| Number of Pockets | 37 | 37 | 38 |
| Betting Options | Standard + Additional French Bets (e.g., Voisins du Zéro) | Standard | Standard |
| ‘La Partage’ Rule | Yes (Half back on even money bets when ball lands on 0) | No | No |
| ‘En Prison’ Rule | Yes (Option to leave the bet for the next spin if the ball lands on 0) | No | No |
| Racetrack Bets | Yes | Dependent on the Casino | No |
French roulette may include one of two rules that reduce the house edge on even-money bets (red/black, odd/even, high/low):
- La Partage: If the ball lands on zero, players lose only half of their even-money bet. This reduces the house edge to 1.35% on these bets specifically.
- En Prison: If the ball lands on zero, even-money bets are “imprisoned” for the next spin. If the bet wins on the next spin, it is returned without winnings. If it loses, the bet is collected. This also reduces the effective house edge to 1.35% on even-money bets.
Not all French roulette tables offer these rules. When present, they apply only to even-money outside bets, not to inside bets or other bet types.
How to Play Online Roulette: A Simple Guide
Playing online roulette games is quite simple if you are aware of the basic rules and betting possibilities. This article will help you understand the steps you need to follow, from selecting a licensed casino to placing your bets and checking the results. Whether you are a beginner or want to improve your strategy, these simple steps will guide you through.
- Learn the Basics
Understand the rules, bet types, and odds to choose the right platform and game variant (e.g., European vs. American, live vs. RNG). - Pick a Licensed Casino
For real money play, choose a licensed casino (e.g., iGaming Ontario in Ontario). Verify the license on the website or regulator’s database. - Browse the Games
Go to the “Table Games” or “Live Casino” section to find roulette variants with different rules and limits. - Choose Your Variant
Pick between types like European, French, or American roulette. European and French offer better odds. - Set Your Bet
Select your chip value and place bets on the table grid, respecting the table’s limits. - Place Your Bets
Click the areas where you want to bet. Your total bet and potential payout will be shown. - Spin the Wheel
Click “Spin” (RNG) or wait for the live dealer to spin. Live games have a betting window before the spin. - Check the Outcome
The ball lands, determining the winner. Winnings are credited, and losing bets are collected. - Decide to Continue
Place new bets or stop. Stick to your pre-set time and money limits.
Common Betting Systems and Their Limitations
Martingale system
How it works: Double the wager after every loss. When a win occurs, go back to the original wager amount. A win will recover all losses with a small profit.
Limitations: A large bankroll is needed, and the table limits will not allow the doubling to continue indefinitely. A long losing streak may result in a wager that is impossible to recover. The house edge is not affected.
Paroli system
How it works: Double the bet after every win, up to a certain number (typically three). Go back to the original bet after a win or a loss.
Limitations: This strategy depends on winning streaks, which are unpredictable. It does not change the odds of winning, and losses will cut down the profit.
Fibonacci system
How it works: Bets are placed in a Fibonacci sequence. One step forward after a loss, two steps backward after a win.
Limitations: Similar to Martingale, it involves increasing bets after losses, resulting in high stakes. Does not change the house edge.
Labouchère system
How it works: Bet the sum of the first and last numbers in a sequence. Win, and cross them out. Lose, and add the loss to the end of the sequence.
Limitations: Complex to manage. Losing streaks extend the sequence, increasing bet sizes. Doesn’t improve long-term odds.
Recognizing and Avoiding Gambler’s Fallacy
Gambler’s fallacy is the idea that the probability of future outcomes is affected by past results in random events. For example, in roulette, it might mean that red is “due” after a string of reds or that patterns indicate future outcomes. But the reality is that each outcome is an independent event, and the probability is the same (18/37 or 48.6% for red or black in European roulette) regardless of past outcomes, including those shown by the casino.
Responsible Play Guidelines and Common Mistakes to Avoid
Roulette is a form of entertainment with an inherent cost due to the house edge. Approaching it responsibly means understanding the risks and setting boundaries.
Responsible roulette play
Responsible roulette play involves setting limits on time and money, playing for fun, and avoiding the risks of chasing losses or gambling beyond your means.
Set Limits:
- Loss limit: Decide your max loss and stop when you reach it.
- Time limit: Set a time limit to avoid excessive play.
- Win goal: Set a win target and stop once you reach it.
Expected Loss:
The house edge means a net loss over time. For example, betting $1,000 in European roulette typically results in a $27 loss.
Avoid Chasing Losses:
Don’t increase bets to recover losses. Accept losses and stop when needed.
No Betting System Guarantees Profit:
Betting systems don’t change odds, just help with bankroll management.
Play European or French roulette:
European roulette has a lower house edge (2.7%) than American roulette (5.26%).
Signs of Problem Gambling:
Seek help if you:
- Gamble more time or money than intended
- Gamble with money needed for essentials
- Feel anxious or restless when not gambling
- Lie about gambling
- Chase losses
- Gamble to escape problems
Canadian resources for problem gambling
- National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-866-531-2600 (available 24/7)
- Ontario: ConnexOntario – 1-866-531-2600 or visit connexontario.ca
- British Columbia: BC Problem Gambling Helpline – 1-888-795-6111 or visit bcresponsiblegambling.ca
- Alberta: Alberta Health Services Addiction Helpline – 1-866-332-2322
- Quebec: Gambling: Help and Referral – 1-800-461-0140 or visit jeu-aidereference.qc.ca
- Manitoba: Addictions Foundation of Manitoba – 1-855-662-6605
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FAQ
It depends on the province. In Ontario, it is legal and licensed by iGaming Ontario. But in other provinces, the rules are different. Always check the legality and licensing.
No. Every time, the result is random. Past results do not influence future results.
Even-money bets (red/black, odd/even) have the best odds (48.6% in European), but the house edge is the same for all bets. The French roulette version with La Partage rule reduces the house edge to 1.35%.
There is no betting system that can overcome the house edge. They are useful only for managing bets, as the odds remain the same.
RNG is based on algorithms, while live dealer is based on a real wheel and a real dealer. Both have the same rules, but live dealer is more of a social experience, while RNG is quicker.
Only bring what you can afford to lose. A good rule of thumb is 50 to 100 times your minimum wage.
