Roulette 101: Spin the Wheel Like a Local

Keith Salwoski
2 minutes ago
3 min read

If you’ve ever walked into a casino and been drawn to the cheering crowd and the rhythmic "clack-clack-clack" of a silver ball, you’ve found the heart of the gaming floor: the Roulette wheel. It is the ultimate game of chance, and despite the fancy French name, it’s arguably the most straightforward game in Las Vegas.

At LAS Discounts, we believe you shouldn't feel intimidated by the table. Whether you’re looking to play it safe or hoping for a big "lucky number" payday, here is everything you need to know to place your first bet.

The Basics: How the Game Works

The setup is simple: a large wheel features numbered pockets from 1 to 36 (alternating red and black) and at least one green pocket (the 0). You place your chips on the corresponding numbers or colors on the table layout. The dealer spins the wheel in one direction and the ball in the other. Wherever the ball lands determines the winner!

Inside vs. Outside Bets

The roulette table is divided into two main sections. Knowing the difference is the key to managing your bankroll:

Outside Bets (The "Safe" Bets): These are the large boxes on the outer edge of the layout. They cover large groups of numbers (like Red, Black, Odd, Even, or 1-18). These pay 1-to-1, meaning if you bet $10, you win $10. You have nearly a 50/50 chance of winning these.
Inside Bets (The "Big Payout" Bets): These are the specific numbers inside the grid. You can bet on a single number (which pays a massive 35-to-1) or "split" your bet between two, three, or four numbers by placing your chips on the lines.
The "Green" Rule: Watch Your Zeros

Before you sit down, look at the wheel!

This is where most newbies lose money without realizing it.

Single Zero (0): Best odds for you! (House edge: 2.7%)
Double Zero (00): The Vegas standard. (House edge: 5.26%)
Triple Zero (000): The "avoid at all costs" wheel. (House edge: 7.69%)

LAS Discounts Tip: If you see three green spaces on the wheel, keep walking. Your money will last much longer at a Double Zero table!

Getting Your Chips

Roulette is unique because the chips are different from the rest of the casino. When you "buy in" at a roulette table, the dealer will give you colored chips that belong only to you. This helps the dealer keep track of whose bet is whose in the middle of the excitement.

Important: These chips have no value at any other table or the casino cage. When you’re ready to leave, tell the dealer you want to "color up," and they will swap your colored chips for standard casino cash chips.

Where to Play (The LAS Discounts Guide)

For the Vibe: Check out the center-Strip spots like The Linq or Flamingo. It’s high energy, though you’ll likely see more Double and Triple Zero wheels.
For the Value: Head Downtown to Fremont Street. Places like El Cortez or The D often have lower minimums, meaning your $20 can go a long way.
The "Secret" Strategy: Look for the "Double Ball" Roulette machines. They are fun, flashy, and offer a unique twist on the classic game with lower entry costs.

Final Pro Tip: Don’t Be a "Past Poster"

In Roulette, the dealer will wave their hand and say, "No more bets!" once the ball starts to slow down. After that point, do not touch your chips! Once the ball lands, the dealer will place a small glass marker (called a "dolly") on the winning number. Wait until they remove that marker before you grab your winnings or place new bets.

Is 7 your lucky number, or do you always bet on Red? Let us know your favorite "system" in the comments below!