The key element is the "house edge," which is the casino's built-in advantage. Roulette by the Numbers
Roulette is a game of pure luck,
casino but its outcomes are governed by the laws of probability. Understanding the math behind the wheel can't change the odds, but it can help you make more informed decisions and appreciate the game on a deeper level.
1994: The first online casino is introduced, changing the industry forever. 19th Century: Saloons with gambling get widespread in the American West. Important Dates
1638: The Ridotto is established in Venice. 1931: Gambling is authorized in Nevada, paving the way for Las Vegas. Late 1700s: Casinos gain popularity in spa towns like Baden-Baden and Monte Carlo.
Never touch your cards in a game where they are dealt face-up. Poker
Don't talk about a hand you're not in. Act in turn and don't "splash the pot" (throw your chips into the middle). Keep your hands out of the way when the shooter is rolling the dice. Pastime
Important Rule
Blackjack
Use hand signals to indicate Hit or Stand. Craps
Don't say the word "seven" at the table. Roulette
Wait for the dealer to remove the dolly (marker) from the winning number before placing new bets or collecting winnings.
Look for wagering requirements, game restrictions (some games contribute less to wagering), and time limits before accepting any offer. Scenario
Wagering Requirement
Total Bet Amount
$100 bonus
20x the bonus
$100 x 20 = $2,000
$100 bonus (from a $100 deposit)
30x the bonus + deposit
($100 + $100) x 30 = $6,000
50 Free Spins (winnings are bonus cash)
40x the winnings
If you win $20, you must wager $20 x 40 = $800
Always read the terms and conditions.
These offers can seem very generous, promising free cash or spins. Making Sense of Offers
Online casinos use incentives to attract new players and retain existing ones. However, they almost always come with terms and conditions, the most important of which are wagering requirements. Grasping how these work is key to properly evaluating a bonus.
The Technology Behind Slots
Slot machines are the most popular attraction in any casino, both online and offline. Their straightforward nature is a major draw, but there's complex technology working behind the scenes. Every modern slot machine uses a Random Number Generator (RNG) to certify that every spin's outcome is completely random and independent of previous spins.
Playing by the Unwritten Rules
Walking into a casino;
page, for
casino the first time can be daunting. Observing these social norms will help you fit in and avoid any awkward situations with dealers or other players. Beyond the official rules of the games, there's a code of conduct, or etiquette, that ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Important Terms to Understand
RNG (Random Number Generator): A computer algorithm that produces sequences of numbers with no discernible pattern. Volatility (or Variance): Describes the risk level of a slot. This ensures fairness. Low volatility slots pay out small wins frequently, while high volatility slots offer larger wins but less often. RTP (Return to Player): A percentage that indicates how much of the wagered money a slot is expected to pay back to players over a long period. A 96% RTP means it pays back $96 for every $100 wagered over millions of spins.
Rules for the Floor
Know the Rules Before You Play: Don't sit down at a table without understanding the basics of the game. When making a bet, place your chips neatly in the designated area. Handle Your Chips Correctly: Don't touch another player's chips. Limit Phone Use at the Table: Most casinos frown upon using your phone while at a table game. Be Respectful to the Dealer: Dealers are professionals doing their job. Don't Ask for Advice: Do not ask the dealer or
casino other players how you should play your hand. Be polite, and if you're winning, a small tip is always appreciated. Watch for a bit first or play online for free to practice. It slows down the game and can be a security concern. Decisions are yours alone.
Free Spins: A set number of free plays on a specific slot machine. The most crucial part of any bonus is the wagering requirement. Cashback: The casino returns a percentage of your net losses over a certain period. This is the amount you must bet before you can withdraw the bonus funds or any winnings from them. It's expressed as a multiplier (e.g., 35x). Frequent Promotional Deals
Welcome Bonus / Match Deposit: The casino matches a percentage of your first deposit, e.g., "100% match up to $200."
No Deposit Bonus: A small bonus given just for signing up, with no deposit required. Reload Bonus: A match bonus for existing players on subsequent deposits.
Roulette Differences
European Roulette: Features numbers 1-36 and a single zero (0). French Roulette: Similar to European Roulette, but includes rules like "La Partage" or "En Prison" that can reduce the house edge on even-money bets to as low as 1.35%. American Roulette: Features numbers 1-36,
casino a single zero (0), and a double zero (00). Let's look at the probabilities and payouts for common bets on a European wheel. The extra pocket nearly doubles the house edge to 5.26%. The house edge is 2.7%. For casino (
Ritmourbano blog post) this reason, knowledgeable players always prefer European or French Roulette when available.