Roulette is one of the most iconic casino games, loved for its simplicity and thrill. Its origins trace back to 18th-century France, and it has evolved over time, with many versions popular worldwide today.
Early Beginnings in France
The game of roulette was first developed by French mathematician Blaise Pascal in the 17th century, although it wasn’t intended to be a gambling game. Pascal was working on a perpetual motion machine, and his invention eventually became the basis for the roulette wheel. In the 18th century, roulette became a popular casino game in France, with early versions combining elements of existing French games. By the late 1700s, the roulette wheel had a single zero and a double zero, which gave the house a slight advantage.
European and American Roulette
In the 19th century, roulette spread to Europe and the United States. In Europe, the single-zero version, known as European Roulette, became widely accepted. The single zero reduced the house edge, making it a more favorable option for players. However, in the U.S., the double-zero version (American Roulette) became popular. This version has a higher house edge, giving the casino a bigger advantage.
Modern Variations
Today, roulette can be found in many forms, both in casinos and online. European and American Roulette remain the most common, but other variations exist as well. French Roulette is similar to the European version but includes special rules like "La Partage," which gives players half of their even-money bets back if the ball lands on zero. Online casinos have also created new versions, such as multi-wheel and mini roulette, to appeal to different audiences.
Roulette has grown from a classic French game to a global sensation, with various versions catering to different play styles. Whether in physical casinos or online, roulette continues to capture players’ excitement with each spin of the wheel.