Introduction to French Roulette
French Roulette is a classic and popular casino game that originated in France during the 18th century. It is a variant of the traditional roulette game, and it offers some unique features that make it stand out from its counterparts. If you’re new to French Roulette or have some questions about it, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll cover ten frequently asked questions to help you better understand and enjoy this exciting game.
How to Play:
The basic rules of French roulette are the same as European or American roulette. You simply place your bet on the roulette table and the dealer will spin the wheel. If the ball lands on your chosen number, you’re a winner. Just bear in mind that the roulette table might come with French translations for even/odd *(pair/impair)* and 1-18/19-36 *(manque/passe).* See where to play live Roulette games or if live gaming is not for you see electronic tables.
1. Place your bet
2. The dealer spins the wheel
3. The ball lands in one of 37 numbered pockets
4. The dealer pays out any winnings
In More Detail: The Specifics of Playing French Roulette
1. Understanding the Table:
The French roulette table is similar to European and American roulette tables but has a different layout. It features the numbers 1 to 36 in alternating black and red colours, with a single green pocket for the number 0. The numbers are arranged in three columns of twelve, and there are additional betting options located on the sides of the main grid.
2. Placing Bets:
Before the dealer spins the wheel, you have time to place your bets on the table. There are various betting options, and each bet covers different numbers or groups of numbers. Here are some common bet types in French roulette:
3. Spinning the Wheel:
Once all bets are placed, the dealer will spin the roulette wheel in one direction and then spin the ball in the opposite direction around the edge of the wheel.
4. Ball Landing:
As the wheel slows down, the ball will eventually lose momentum and land in one of the 37 numbered pockets (0 to 36).
5. Payouts:
If the ball lands on a number that corresponds to your bet, you win according to the payout for that bet. The dealer will then pay out your winnings.
Two Unique Rules to French Roulette Are:
French Roulette, unlike American and European Roulette, offers two unique rules known as “La Partage” and “En Prison.” Please see our explanations below and find out why these rules matter to your bottom line.
La Partage Rule:
The La Partage rule is applicable only to even money bets, which include Red/Black, Odd/Even, and High/Low wagers. When the roulette ball lands on the single green 0 pocket, the dealer immediately enacts the La Partage rule. Under this rule, all even money wagers are split into two equal parts.
One half of each bet is kept by the house, while the other half is returned to the player. Essentially, if you placed an even money bet and the ball lands on 0, you will only lose half of your wager. This provides an added layer of security or insurance, as it reduces the house edge for even money bets to an advantageous 1.35%, making French Roulette more appealing for players seeking better odds.
En Prison Rule:
French Roulette Call Bets:
French roulette call bets are a set of unique wagers available in French roulette that cover specific groups of numbers on the roulette wheel. These bets are distinct from the standard inside and outside bets found on the main roulette table and are often displayed on a separate racetrack layout in online roulette.
Here are the most common French roulette call bets:
Voisins du Zéro:
Translated as ‘Neighbors of Zero,’ this bet covers a total of 17 numbers on the wheel, including 22, 18, 29, 7, 28, 12, 35, 3, 26, 0, 32, 15, 19, 4, 21, 2, and 25. It requires nine chips to place and consists of five split bets, a corner bet on 2/26/28/29, and a three-number bet on 0/2/3.
Tiers du Cylindre:
Tiers du Cylindre covers approximately one-third of the wheel, comprising the 12 numbers between 27 and 33, namely 27, 13, 36, 11, 30, 8, 23, 10, 5, 24, 16, and 33. This bet is made using six split bets to cover all the numbers.
Les Orphelins:
Les Orphelins covers eight numbers that are not included in the Voisins du Zéro and Tiers du Cylindre bets. It includes the three numbers to the right of the 0 pocket (17, 34, and 6) and the five numbers to the left (1, 20, 14, 31, and 9). This bet requires five chips, with four chips placed as split bets and one chip as a straight-up bet on number 1.
Jeu Zéro:
Jeu Zéro bet covers seven numbers closest to the 0 pocket. These numbers are 12, 35, 3, 26, 0, 32, and 15. The bet is made using four chips, with one split bet on 0-3, another on 12-15, a straight-up bet on 26, and a final split bet on 32-35.
Finales en Plein:
With Finales en Plein, you wager on individual numbers that end in the same digit. For example, ‘Finale 0 en Plein’ covers 0, 10, 20, and 30, while ‘Finale 1 en Plein’ covers 1, 11, 21, and 31. All these bets are straight-up wagers, and winning numbers pay out at 35:1.
Finales a Cheval:
Finales a Cheval allows you to bet on two specific numbers of your choosing, and it covers all combinations of those numbers ending in the same digit. For example, if you choose 0 and 1, the bet includes 0, 1, 10, 11, 20, 21, 30, and 31. The placement of split and straight bets will depend on the chosen numbers.
French roulette call bets add a layer of complexity and excitement to the game, and they are particularly popular among experienced players looking to explore different betting strategies.
French Roulette Odds and Payouts
| Bet Type | Bet Payout | Bet Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Straight | 35/1 | 2.7% |
| Split | 17/1 | 5.4% |
| Street | 11/1 | 8.1% |
| Corner | 8/1 | 10.8% |
| Column | 2/1 | 32.4% |
| Dozen | 2/1 | 32.4% |
| Red/Black | 1/1 | 48.6% |
| Even/Odd | 1/1 | 48.6% |
| Low/High | 1/1 | 48.6% |
Strategy and Tips for Game Play
1. Play using the ‘La Partage’ rule: Whenever possible, opt for online French roulette games that include the ‘La Partage’ rule. With this rule, you get half of your even money bet back when the ball lands on 0. It significantly reduces the house edge to just 1.35%, making French roulette much more favorable compared to American (5.25%) and European (2.7%) roulette variants.
2. Stick to even money bets: For beginners and risk-averse players, it’s advisable to stick to even money bets like red or black, odd or even, and high or low numbers. These bets have the highest probability of winning and offer a safer betting strategy. Although the payouts are modest, you can steadily build your bankroll by doubling your wager on successful bets.
3. Ignore hot numbers: In some online French roulette games, you may notice a display of ‘hot numbers,’ indicating the recent winning numbers. However, it’s essential to understand that each spin of the roulette wheel is independent and random. Previous winning numbers have no influence on future outcomes, so it’s best not to base your bets on hot numbers or any perceived patterns.
4. Always bet within your means: One of the golden rules of gambling is to set a budget before playing and strictly adhere to it. Determine how much money you can comfortably afford to lose without causing financial strain, and use that as your bankroll. Never exceed this amount and avoid chasing losses. Responsible gambling ensures that the game remains enjoyable without risking significant financial repercussions.
5. Consider combination bets for diversity: While even money bets are low-risk, some players may prefer a more diverse betting experience. Consider mixing in a few combination bets that cover multiple numbers on the roulette table. For instance, you can place split bets, corner bets, or street bets to cover specific groups of numbers. This strategy adds excitement to the game while keeping the risks manageable.
6. Practice with free games: If you’re new to French roulette or want to test out different strategies, take advantage of free online roulette games. Many online casinos offer free demo versions, allowing you to play without real money. Use this opportunity to familiarize yourself with the rules, test your betting strategies, and gain confidence before playing with real money.
By following these tips and strategies, you can enhance your enjoyment and increase your chances of success while playing French roulette online. Remember, gambling should always be for entertainment purposes, and responsible gaming is key to a positive experience.
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French Roulette Player FAQ:
1. What is French Roulette?
French Roulette is a casino game that uses a spinning wheel with 37 pockets, numbered 0 to 36. Players place bets on the outcome of the ball landing in one of these pockets after the wheel’s spin. The objective is to predict the winning number or group of numbers.
2. How is French Roulette different from other roulette variants?
French Roulette stands out for its unique “La Partage” rule. This rule comes into play when the ball lands on zero (0). In such cases, players who placed even-money bets (e.g., red/black, odd/even) will receive half of their wager back, reducing the house edge.
3. What are the betting options in French Roulette?
Players have various betting options in French Roulette. These include inside bets (betting on specific numbers) and outside bets (betting on groups of numbers or characteristics like colors and odd/even). Each type of bet offers different payout odds and levels of risk.
4. Can I play French Roulette online?
Yes, many online casinos offer French Roulette in their gaming catalog. You can enjoy the game from the comfort of your home or on the go through mobile casinos. Make sure to choose a reputable and licensed online casino for a safe gaming experience.
5. Is French Roulette a game of skill or luck?
French Roulette, like other casino games, is primarily a game of chance. The outcome is determined by the spin of the wheel and where the ball lands. However, understanding the different betting options and strategies can enhance your overall gaming experience.
6. What are the advantages of playing French Roulette?
French Roulette’s “La Partage” rule reduces the house edge, making it more favorable for players. Additionally, the game’s elegance and simplicity, combined with its historical significance, contribute to its charm and appeal.
7. How do I develop a winning strategy?
While there’s no guaranteed winning strategy in roulette, some players employ betting systems like the Martingale or Fibonacci to manage their bankroll and minimize losses. It’s essential to remember that all betting systems come with risks, and roulette remains a game of chance.
8. Are there any tips for beginners?
For beginners, it’s advisable to start with outside bets (e.g., red/black or odd/even) as they have higher chances of winning but offer lower payouts. Take your time to learn the game’s rules and different bet types before trying more complex strategies.
9. Is French Roulette suitable for all players?
French Roulette is suitable for players of all experience levels. It offers a mix of simplicity and excitement that appeals to both beginners and seasoned casino enthusiasts. Remember to gamble responsibly and set limits on your play to ensure a positive gaming experience.
10. How can I get started with French Roulette?
To get started with French Roulette, you can visit a land-based casino or choose a reputable online casino offering this game. Look for casinos with enticing bonuses and promotions to enhance your gaming experience. Always remember to play within your budget and have fun responsibly.
