Roulette is a casino classic. But contrary to popular belief, it’s not just about luck — strategy plays a big role too. By understanding the rules, mathematical probabilities, and the approaches used by experienced players, you can significantly increase your chances of winning. Here are 10 well-tested techniques that help reduce the house edge and make your gameplay more intentional. Each is explained in detail so you know why it works and how to apply it.
1. Play European Roulette with a Single Zero
The main advantage of European roulette lies in the numbers. It has 37 pockets instead of the 38 found in the American version, which includes a double zero. This difference reduces the house edge from 5.26% to just 2.7%. While it may seem minor, over time it saves you hundreds of bets. When playing consistently, every percentage point in your favor counts.
2. Look for Tables with the La Partage Rule
La Partage, a rule rooted in French roulette, allows players to recover half their even-money bets if the ball lands on zero. This reduces the house edge to 1.35%. It’s one of the most player-friendly conditions in roulette, especially for those placing medium-sized bets. It helps soften losing streaks and stretch your bankroll further.
3. Use the En Prison Rule
Similar to La Partage, but even more flexible, En Prison applies when the ball lands on zero. Your even-money bet is “imprisoned” and carried over to the next spin. If the bet wins the next round, it’s returned in full. This also brings the house edge down to 1.35%. It’s essentially a free second chance without additional cost.
4. Understand the Odds of Winning
Pro players rarely bet randomly. They use structured betting schemes and know the payouts and probabilities in advance. The better you understand the odds, the more strategically you can manage your bankroll and react to streaks. For instance, knowing that a single number bet wins on average once every 37 spins helps with session planning and chip allocation.
5. Track the Results
Even though each spin is independent, many players analyze past outcomes. Some versions of roulette even highlight hot and cold numbers. You can do this manually too — it helps you identify patterns or simply stay mindful of your game flow. Statistics can indicate when to pause, shift strategy, or re-center your approach.
6. Try the Martingale System
This classic strategy involves doubling your bet after each loss. Eventually, a win recovers all prior losses and adds a profit. But you need a sizeable bankroll and no table limits. Always calculate in advance whether you can handle 10–15 straight losses. This system rewards patience and discipline and is best used on even-money bets.
If table limits exist, be selective — start your sequence after seeing 3–5 repeats of the same outcome. This lowers your risk and still lets you use the method effectively. This variation is often called the “smart Martingale” and suits environments with tighter restrictions.
7. Learn the Aggressive Makarov Strategy
This method involves always betting on a single number. It’s simple and potentially very profitable (with a 35:1 payout), but requires strong nerves. The key is knowing when to stop. Many players quit after their first win to avoid a long streak of losses. It’s a high-risk, high-reward tactic best for short sessions and fixed budgets.
8. Maximize Coverage with Minimal Chips
The more numbers you cover, the higher your chances of hitting. Some strategies let you cover up to 32 numbers with just 5 chips. The Kavouras system, for example, uses 8 chips to cover 20 numbers. These methods offer more control and allow for frequent, smaller wins. The trick is to balance payout potential with efficient chip placement.
9. Know When to Walk Away
One of the most underrated tactics is knowing when to stop. Set clear targets for winnings and losses. Some players pause after a big win, others play until they’ve lost a set amount. Choose the approach that fits your temperament and stick to it. Setting a “financial stop” protects your gains and prevents emotional overspending.
10. Never Chase Losses
This is the golden rule: don’t let your emotions drive your bets. Losses happen — trying to recover them aggressively often leads to worse outcomes. Take a break, cool off, then return with a clear head. Tilt can destroy even the best strategy and spiral into reckless play. Self-control is your most valuable asset.
Where Can You Try These Strategies?
You can test all of these tactics at ShangriLa Casino, a licensed platform offering European and French roulette — including live dealer games from Evolution. With an MGA license, the site ensures fair RNG results and transparent conditions. New players get a 100% bonus on their first deposit.
Roulette isn’t magic — it’s a blend of math, psychology, and timing. With the right mindset and strategy, it becomes not just more exciting, but far more rewarding.
