Roulette is a game of chance where players bet on the outcome of a spinning wheel. It is popular around the world and has offered glamour, mystery, and excitement to casino-goers since the 17th century. However, it is not as easy to play as it might seem.

Whether you are new to the game or have been playing it for years, it is important to understand how the game works. In order to do this, you must know the rules of the game and the different betting combinations.

There are three main types of bets that can be made in roulette: inside bets, outside bets, and announced bets. Each type of bet has its own payout odds and winnings.

Inside Bets

These are bets that are placed on a specific number, range of numbers or pockets, or a combination of these choices. They are the most popular and are usually the lowest costing bets.

Outside Bets

These bets are placed on different groups of pockets based on their positions. They are often more expensive than inside bets and have a lower probability of winning.

Announced Bets

These special betting combinations are most commonly featured in French Roulette but they can also be found in European Roulette variations. These are very special bets that you can place only if you have the right knowledge of the rules.

One of the most common announced bets is the ‘5 and the neighbours’ bet, which covers a five-number grouping including numbers 5, 24, 16, 10 and 23. This bet pays 8-1 if it wins, and 5-1 if the bet loses.

Alternatively, you can bet on the “Racetrack” section of the table where you can place the same bet but with neighbouring numbers on each side. This bet is not available in all European Roulette games, but it is one of the most common announced bets and is a great way to increase your chances of winning.

When you are ready to bet, just ask the dealer for chips, and she will parcel them out to you. The dealer will then place a mark on each of your chips to indicate their value and you can then cash them in.