Roulette rules vary according to the table you're playing at, and remember
that you can always ask the dealers specific questions, don't hesitate
to; they might even appreciate the conversation. Basically, roulette is
a game of chance where players bet that a marble spun about a wheel will
land in a particular pocket, of which there are 38 around the rim of the
wheel. These pockets are either red or black, the only exception being
a green 0 pocket, and in American roulette a green double 0 pocket. You
may bet on any one number coming up, and you may bet on as many numbers
as you like. Combinations of numbers and bets on spreads are also acceptable,
within the limits of the game. For a comprehensive look at roulette betting
read our play page, it's a perfect follow up after reading this roulette
rules section.
@ The Table
Just to get started, let's take a look at the table and who stands around it. The croupier (or dealer) stands along one length of the table. In American roulette rules there are usually multiple dealers operating a table, where as off of North America it is often just one. Players stand along the other side, and at the end opposite the wheel itself.
Players usually stand around the roulette table, but there are sometimes a few seats available if you're among the first to arrive. If you do sit down, be prepared for players who don't have a seat to be leaning over you while placing their bets. Keep a keen eye on your chips if there is anyone getting a little too close for comfort.
When Chips Are Chips
Playing roulette is a fairly uncomplicated process once you're used to it. One of the most common stumbling blocks comes with the very first thing you do when you get to the table, cash in. According to roulette rules, casino chips are not actually casino chips, they are called checks. Basically this means that whenever you play blackjack or craps or any of the other table games with normal casino chips, those chips are actually called checks. This is why you may hear people asking for 'check' change at the craps table. They are exchanging one denomination of check for another. Only at the roulette table are the tokens actually called 'chips'. You'll notice early on that at the roulette table you play with different tokens than anywhere else. In fact, the dealer gives you your own color of chip, which nobody else uses, so that they can keep proper track of your chips. Each color is not associated with a value by default; the choice is up to you. If you want to play with five-dollar chips and you're given the color yellow, the dealer will put a $5 marker on a stack of yellow chips on the dealers side of the table.
