Roulette is a game of chance, but many betting systems promise to give players an edge. All roulette games have the same basic rules. Players bet on where the ball will land on the spinning wheel. Payouts vary based on the bet’s odds.
Before assessing roulette betting systems, it helps to review the game basics. Roulette wheels have either 37 or 38 numbered pockets. American roulette uses 38 numbers from 1 to 36, plus 0 and 00. European and French roulette wheels have just one 0. Players bet on an individual number or a range of numbers. Odds are lower, but payouts are higher on inside bets. Even money outside bets win more often but have smaller payouts. The edge comes from the 0 and sometimes 00 pockets. If the ball lands in 0 or 00, the house wins all even money bets. The house edge is 5.26% for American roulette and 2.70% for European games. While the odds favor the best online casino for south african players, betting systems aim to overcome that mathematical edge.
Testing methodology
The systems are analyzed across European, American, and French roulette games. Each system starts with a set bankroll and fixed minimum and maximum bets. Performance metrics include total profits, longest losing streak, and risk of ruin. The systems aim to win over time by maximizing wins and minimizing losses. Mathematical analysis reveals whether the systems maintain an edge despite roulette’s odds. This testing methodology evaluates real extended gameplay rather than short-term wins.
Martingale system
The Martingale system is the most popular roulette betting system. It instructs players to double their bet after each loss. This system aims to recoup losses and earn a small profit.
- Set a base bet amount like $5
- Bet $5 on an even money outside bet like red/black
- A losing bet should be doubled
- Double your bet until you win
- When you win, revert to the $5 base bet
This system guarantees a profit after a win. The cumulative wins should be greater than the cumulative losses. The downside is the risk of long losing streaks. A 10-spin losing run would require a $5,120 bet to win back prior losses. Most players hit the table limit well before that.
Paroli system
Martingale uses a similar approach as the Paroli system. Instead of chasing losses, the Paroli aims to ride winning streaks:
- Set a base bet amount
- Make a bet
- If you win, double the next bet
- Double the bet again if you win
- After 3 consecutive wins, revert to the base bet amount
This system casts a positive momentum betting strategy. Short winning streaks maximize profits. By capping the number of doubled bets, the Paroli limits losses during losing runs.
