The Origins of the Game Roulette
As with many games of skill and chance, the game of Roulette has been around for a long time, and has a colorful history. And while Roulette is a fun game that generates a lot of excitement, players that are new to the ever-popular spinning wheel may not realize it dates back farther than imagined.
As with many of these types of games, the true origin of Roulette is shrouded in mystery. It is, however, said to have originated as far back as the 18th century, and is believed to be a combination of several different games, such as: Roly-Poly, Ace of Hearts, E.O. as well as such games as Hoca, Biribi, and a French game that also shares the name of Roulette (in all honesty, the very name means “small wheel” in France.)
One of the people who helped to bring the game into popularity was Prince Charles of Monaco who intended to use the game as a means to help his country’s economy (considering how the heads of state still tend to gamble with their respective economies, it’s clear not too much has changed today.)
One of the first references to Roulette was mentioned in an early list of Canadian regulations. The game, as it is known today, dates back to 1796, in the colorful city of Paris, France, where it was mentioned in the book “La Roulette ou le Jour”. It was later brought over to the United States, and was a popular game during the Gold Rush of California, and in New Orleans, Louisiana.
In 1842, the number “0” was added to the wheel in order to expand the potential for larger house odds. It was this same year that Roulette became prominently established in the casinos of Monte Carlo.
American casinos chose not to use just the “0” on the Roulette wheel, instead deciding to evolve their Roulette wheel with the addition of the number “00” being added into play. This was done for two reasons: To expand the house odds, and also from a symmetrical aspect as the addition made the numbers even (so if anyone ever says “those odd Americans”, you can reply with “no, they like even!”)
Today, Roulette’s popularity is very strong, despite the healthy house edge – it’s an easy game to play, and they payouts are generally large. It’s also very recognizable, as almost all casino advertisements feature a roulette wheel.
Given its fast paced, easy play and “anything goes” sense of excitement, spinning that wheel has never been more fun to get involved with. Good luck!
