Have you ever wondered where on Earth one of the most popular casino games sprung from?
The origins of roulette go all the way back to 18th-century France. But even with that, some believe its roots go even deeper! Roulette is a product of multiple developments from games involving spinning wheels and chance. Imagine those early gamblers in knee-length coats and long lacey dresses placing their bets with bated breath!
Origins of Roulette – The Birth of a Classic Casino Game
Roulette didn’t just pop up overnight. It comes from a historical background, trickling from one place, one point in time, to another.
The Influence of Blaise Pascal and His Invention
The roulette wheel itself owes its existence, at least in part, to a famous mathematician! Blaise Pascal, a brilliant 17th-century French philosopher and mathematician is the man who invented roulette by accident.
He wasn’t trying to invent an iconic casino game that would be loved and appreciated by many generations to come. He was actually trying to invent a perpetual motion machine. Lucky for us, he inadvertently made the great, great, grandfather version of the roulette wheel instead.
The Introduction of Roulette in French Casinos
Roulette started in the gambling scene in the 18th century through French casinos. But it quickly evolved, with early wheels bearing different layouts and betting options. When the 1790s came dashing in, the version of roulette that we know and love today began to take shape and the game spread across Europe.
Roulette in 19th Century Europe – Spreading Across the Continent
Roulette’s popularity wasn’t tethered to a single location. The game was quick to dominate other territories, too!
Roulette’s Popularity in France and Europe
By the 19th century, roulette’s popularity spread like wildfire across Europe. It was particularly appreciated in France, where the game made itself a regular feature in the grand casinos of Monte Carlo.
Single-Zero Roulette in Germany
Apart from France, Germany played an important role in the development of the classic casino game, too. However, this group liked the single zero version more since it had better odds for the players.
Key Innovations and Early Rules of Roulette
The earlier versions of the roulette game were a tad different from the modern ones we’re familiar with today. Over time, the wheel design was refined, and the rules became set in stone. Early variations of the la partage rule and the en prison rule were soon introduced.
How Does Roulette Work
Before the round starts, place your bets on a table with numbers and betting options before the dealer spins the wheel. The ball will bounce until it settles into one of the pockets. If the ball lands on a number you’ve bet on, you win!
Now, you might have heard of those people trying to “beat” roulette using a roulette computer. Casinos are well aware of these devices, and they’re not only illegal but also ineffective.
Roulette’s Journey to America – The Rise of Double-Zero Roulette
Just like any other good thing, roulette had to be shared. So the concept crossed the Atlantic, where it underwent a transformation. American casinos introduced the double zero to the wheel, soon filling US casinos.
The Modern Era of Roulette – From Land-Based Casinos to Online Gaming
Today, roulette is still going strong! It’s a true icon of the casino world, a game that’s as exciting now as it ever was.
Roulette’s Role in Modern Casinos
Fast forward to the 21st century, and roulette is still just as popular, if not more! In modern casinos, roulette takes on a luxurious feel, with sleek, lavish tables and professional croupiers.
The Introduction of Live Dealer Roulette
Lately, roulette has become even more available to players, even those away from the physical casinos. Players can now bask in the realistic casino experience from the comfort of their own homes through a high-definition live stream of the games hosted by actual dealers.
Interesting Facts and Legends About Roulette
Almost everything has dark, mysterious lore nowadays, and roulette is no different:
The Myth of the “Devil’s Game” and the Number 666
One of the most famous legends surrounding roulette is the belief that it’s cursed, often referred to as the “Devil’s Game.” When roulette wheels were first created, the numbers on the wheel added up to 666, tying it to the devil in the Christian tradition.
Famous Roulette Wins and Lucky Players
Roulette has seen some jaw-dropping wins throughout history. One of the most legendary wins was in 2004 when an anonymous French player managed to take home €1.3 million in one spin.
Unique Roulette Variations Around the World
In addition to the traditional European and American versions, you’ll find unique variations like French Roulette. This gives players back half their bet if the ball lands on zero. The “Multi-Wheel Roulette” lets you bet on multiple wheels at once. Every country has put its own spin on the game!
Our Thoughts
The roulette casino game has come a long way since its humble beginnings. It’s the classic origin story, the intent to invent something different but then ends up creating a whole new object that mankind didn’t know it needed. So, the next time you’re ready to take a chance, remember: the roulette wheel isn’t just a game. It’s a story in itself.
