Estimated reading time: 18 minutes
Roulette has long mesmerized players with its spinning wheel and the thrill of predicting where the ball will land. While many players stick to the basics—betting on single numbers or colors—the game offers deeper layers of strategy, especially with “call bets.”
Call bets, or “French bets,” allow players to wager on specific combinations of numbers based on their position on the roulette wheel. These bets, typically more popular in European and French roulette, are commonly used by experienced players who enjoy the added strategy they bring to the game.
Unlike standard bets, call bets involve the player verbally calling out the wager, while the croupier places the chips on the table. This method enables players to cover broader sections of the wheel, such as “Voisins du Zero” (numbers near zero) or “Tiers du Cylindre” (numbers on the opposite side), creating more sophisticated betting options.
Though luck still governs the outcome, understanding and using call bets can enhance a player’s strategy and deepen their roulette experience. This advanced approach not only adds excitement to the game but also gives players the chance to explore roulette’s rich strategic possibilities.
With the rise of iGaming in the 21st century, the casino industry has transformed, expanding into global online platforms that offer players flexibility, a broad game selection, and the ability to play from anywhere. Roulette, a classic casino game, has evolved with this digital shift, and call bets—strategic wagers typically seen in European-style roulette—have made their way into both online and land-based casinos.
In online casinos, especially offshore platforms, roulette enthusiasts can experience perks like instant play, diverse game variations, and even the option to play anonymously with cryptocurrency. Despite these new features, the fundamentals of call bets remain the same, regardless of where you play. Also known as “announced bets,” call bets are special wagers in which players state their bet type aloud to the dealer, who then places the chips on the appropriate numbers.
Call bets are divided into fixed and variable types. Each type allows players to cover sections of the roulette wheel, offering a more strategic edge than standard, single-number bets.
These are bets that cover set groups of numbers every time, focusing on specific sections of the wheel.
Voisins du Zéro (“Neighbors of Zero”): Covers 17 numbers around the zero, including numbers on either side, creating a popular option for players wanting coverage near zero.
Jeu Zéro (“Zero Game”): Covers a smaller selection of seven numbers closest to zero, ideal for players focusing tightly on the zero area.
Tiers du Cylindre (“Thirds of the Wheel”): Covers 12 numbers opposite zero on the wheel, extending from 27 to 33, covering a broad section away from zero.
Orphelins (“Orphans”): Covers eight numbers not included in the Voisins or Tiers sections, giving players coverage in the remaining pockets.
These bets adjust based on the player’s chosen number, allowing for more flexibility.
Neighbor Bets: Players choose a number and include the two numbers on either side, covering a total of five numbers around a central point on the wheel.
Final Bets: This option allows players to bet on all numbers ending in the same digit (e.g., all numbers ending in 3).
European roulette is known for its sophisticated betting options, especially with the unique array of fixed call bets available to players. Fixed call bets focus on specific segments of the roulette wheel, allowing players to cover groups of numbers in a single wager. Unlike traditional inside and outside bets, fixed call bets are typically “called” to the croupier instead of physically placing chips on the table, offering a streamlined way to play strategically. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the most popular fixed call bets and how each works.
The “Voisins du Zéro” (Neighbors of Zero) bet is popular among European roulette players. This bet covers 17 numbers around the zero pocket, specifically from 22 to 25. These numbers are 22, 18, 29, 7, 28, 12, 35, 3, 26, 0, 32, 15, 19, 4, 21, 2, and 25. Voisins du Zéro is a complex bet structure designed to maximize coverage around the zero. Because of the specific sequence around the zero on the wheel, this bet is exclusive to European roulette.
To place this bet, nine chips are used:
Five chips go to split bets covering the pairs: 4–7, 12–15, 18–21, 19–22, and 32–35.
Two chips are placed as a trio bet on 0, 2, and 3.
Two chips cover a corner bet for numbers 25, 26, 28, and 29.
This intricate distribution allows players to leverage a high degree of coverage around the zero, making it a strategic choice.
Payout: Depending on the winning number, payouts vary by bet type. Split bets pay at +1,700 odds, the corner bet pays +800, and the trio bet on 0, 2, and 3 pays +1,100.
Jeu Zéro, meaning “zero game,” originated in Germany as “zero spiel.” This bet covers seven numbers closest to zero on the wheel: 3, 12, 15, 26, 32, and 35, along with the zero itself. While it includes some numbers from Voisins, the Jeu Zéro requires only four chips, making it a more compact way to bet around zero.
To place the Jeu Zéro, four chips are used as follows:
One chip is placed on a split between 0 and 3, One chip is placed on the split between 12 and 15.
One chip is a straight-up bet on 26, One chip is placed on the split between 32 and 35.
This bet also has a variation known as the “five-piece bet,” which adds an extra chip on 19 as a straight-up bet, offering additional coverage on the wheel near zero.
Payout: If 26 is the winning number, the payout is +3,600, making it one of the highest in this category. If any of the other numbers in the bet win, players receive +1,800.
The Tiers du Cylindre bet, or “third of the wheel,” covers 12 numbers directly opposite the zero on the roulette wheel. Spanning from 27 to 33, this bet covers a third of the numbers on the wheel, giving players significant coverage. The numbers included are 27, 13, 36, 11, 30, 8, 23, 10, 5, 24, 16, and 33.
To make this bet, six chips are used to cover six split bets:
Six chips are placed on the following splits: 5–8, 10–11, 13–16, 23–24, 27–30, and 33–36.
Tiers Du Cylindre is a popular choice for players who want to maximize their betting range while maintaining manageable chip placement. This bet provides excellent coverage while minimizing the risk of scattering bets.
Payout: A winning Tiers bet pays out odds of +1,700, adding a rewarding payout for those betting on a larger section of the wheel.
The Orphelins bet, which translates to “the orphans,” covers the numbers not included in the Voisins or Tiers bets. These eight numbers are located in two distinct sections of the wheel, and they are among the most diverse in terms of placement. The numbers covered in this bet are:
Right of zero: 17, 34, and 6.
Left of zero: 1, 20, 14, 31, and 9.
Players place five chips to make the Orphelins bet:
Four chips are placed on splits between 31–34, 17–20, 14–17, and 6–9.
One chip is placed as a straight-up bet on 1.
Because Orphelins covers numbers outside the typical large sections of the wheel, it’s a valuable bet for players looking to cover numbers often left out by Voisins and Tiers.
Payout: A winning straight-up bet on 1 offers a payout of +3,500. If any other number wins, players receive odds of +1,700.
Fixed call bets allow roulette enthusiasts to employ strategic thinking and target specific portions of the wheel. Each of these bets is designed to give players a way to cover multiple numbers at once, making them useful for balancing the risk of missing out on key numbers or zones. By understanding how each bet works and distributing chips according to set patterns, players can achieve a varied payout structure that can enhance their overall experience.
Voisins du Zéro: Best for players who want extensive coverage near the zero and are willing to place a higher number of chips for balanced returns.
Jeu Zéro: Great for those who prefer a compact, efficient bet focusing solely on the numbers closest to zero.
Tiers du Cylindre: Ideal for players looking to cover a larger section on the opposite side of the wheel from zero.
Orphelins: Perfect for those who want to cover unlinked numbers and play outside of the primary large segments.
Each bet has distinct advantages, and experimenting with them can help players find the strategy that aligns with their goals. Fixed call bets are unique to European and French roulette and are favored for their elegance and strategy, allowing players to explore the game on a deeper level.
Roulette’s appeal goes beyond the simple thrill of a spinning wheel. With fixed call bets, players can refine their approach and potentially enjoy higher payouts and more control over their game. For those ready to take roulette to the next level, these specialized bets offer both challenge and excitement.
Roulette offers a range of betting options, and while many players are familiar with fixed call bets that cover specific sections of the wheel, variable call bets introduce a flexible approach. With variable call bets, players can choose numbers based on the position of specific digits or even the proximity of certain numbers on the wheel. Here, we’ll dive into the most popular types of variable call bets and how they work in the game.
Neighbor bets, sometimes called “neighbours,” are a popular yet strategic bet that enables players to cover a number and its immediate neighbors on the wheel. This bet is especially suited for European or French roulette, which have a single zero pocket. Neighbor bets add a layer of complexity to the game, but for players who prefer wider coverage, they can be both thrilling and rewarding.
With a neighbor bet, players pick a specific number on the wheel, along with the two numbers to the left and two numbers to the right of it, for a total of five numbers. For instance, if a player selects 7 as their main number, the bet would cover 7, as well as 12 and 18 on one side, and 28 and 29 on the other.
Payout: Neighbor bets pay out according to standard inside bet odds. For a straight-up winning bet, the payout is typically +3,500.
Final bets, or “finales,” are bets that group numbers ending in the same digit. This bet is great for players who enjoy spotting patterns or following a number sequence. Final bets come in two main types: Finales en Plein and Finales a Cheval.
With Finales en Plein, players choose a specific last digit and place bets on all numbers that share that final digit. For example, if a player chooses to bet on “0 finales,” they would be betting on 0, 10, 20, and 30. Similarly, betting on “5 finales” would cover numbers 5, 15, 25, and 35. This bet requires different numbers of chips based on the chosen digit:
Four chips are required for final digits 0–6, which cover four numbers each.
Three chips are needed for final digits 7, 8, or 9, as these digits appear on only three numbers each on a European roulette wheel.
Finales a Cheval adds another layer of complexity by allowing players to bet on pairs of numbers that share a final digit. This variant is also known as the “split final bet” because it involves split bets. For example, with Finales a Cheval, a player might place split bets on pairs such as 0-1, 2-3, or 7-8.
The number of chips required varies based on the chosen final pairs:
Five chips are used for splits on pairs with four possible outcomes, such as 0–1, 1–2, and 4–5.
Four chips are needed for splits on pairs with fewer possible combinations, like 0–3, 1–4, and 2–5.
Three chips cover the pairs with just three possible outcomes, such as 6–9 or 7–8.
This bet is ideal for players looking to increase their odds by betting on grouped pairs rather than individual numbers.
Payout: Finales en Plein bets can pay out at +3,500 if a number lands exactly, while Finales a Cheval typically pays at +1,700.
A full complete bet is a sophisticated, high-stakes option where all possible inside bets are made on a single number. This type of bet appeals to players who enjoy maximizing coverage on a number and are willing to invest a larger stake to do so. Full complete bets are sometimes called “maximum” or “maximum coverage” bets.
For example, if a player makes a full complete bet on the number 17, they would be placing:
A straight-up bet on 17.
Split bets on the pairs adjacent to 17, such as 17-14, 17-16, and 17-18.
A street bet covering 17, 16, and 18.
Four corner bets that include 17.
Six-line bets covering lines adjacent to 17.
This type of bet is highly specialized, as it involves covering nearly all combinations associated with a single number. While it provides high payout potential, the total amount staked can quickly approach or even exceed the table’s upper betting limits.
Payout: Full complete bets have a substantial payout potential of +3,500 odds if the winning number is hit.
Variable call bets offer a level of flexibility that can be advantageous for players looking to apply strategic thinking to their game. Because these bets allow players to choose numbers based on their positions or relationships, they’re an excellent option for individuals who enjoy the idea of targeted coverage. However, each type of bet requires a solid understanding of the roulette wheel and table layout, which may be challenging for newcomers.
Start Small: If you’re new to variable call bets, consider starting with neighbor bets or simple finales to familiarize yourself with how these wagers work.
Combine with Traditional Bets: Variable bets can work well with other types of bets, allowing players to diversify their strategy and spread their risk.
Know the Rules of the Table: Roulette tables have different limits, and variable bets like the full complete bet can quickly hit these limits.
Use Variable Bets Strategically: Rather than placing variable bets on every spin, consider using them at strategic points to capitalize on winning streaks.
Call bets provide roulette players with strategic options to control broader sections of the wheel, increase their odds, and create a more sophisticated approach to betting. They’re also a formal way of wagering and pair well with strategies like doubling down or betting with patterns. Although luck is still a primary factor, mastering call bets can help players elevate their game, whether online or at a traditional casino. So, the next time you sit down at a roulette table—virtual or otherwise—consider adding call bets to your strategy for an extra layer of excitement and control.
Roulette is a classic casino game that combines luck, strategy, and a bit of intuition. Whether you’re playing in a physical casino or trying your luck online, it’s crucial to approach the game with a smart strategy and responsible mindset. Here’s a comprehensive guide with tips to help you enjoy the game and keep your roulette experience positive and rewarding.
Outside bets, like those on red or black, odd or even, or high (19-36) or low (1-18) numbers, provide better odds than inside bets, though they offer lower payouts. These types of bets are appealing for beginners and casual players because they cover a larger portion of the roulette wheel, making them more likely to yield a win.
Benefits: Outside bets have close to a 50% chance of winning in European and French roulette. Although the payout is smaller (1:1 for color and odd/even bets, 2:1 for column and dozen bets), the higher probability of winning helps players stretch their bankroll and enjoy more extended play.
Strategy: Use outside bets if your goal is to play conservatively or if you’re looking for a more stable betting experience. Outside bets won’t lead to massive wins, but they can keep you in the game longer and provide consistent payouts.
Roulette can be exhilarating, and the fast-paced nature of the game makes it easy to get caught up in betting more than planned. Setting a budget before you begin is a simple but essential step to avoid potential losses that exceed your comfort level.
Bankroll Management: Set aside a specific amount you’re willing to play with and never exceed that limit. Many players find it helpful to divide their bankroll into smaller amounts for each betting session, helping to avoid overspending on any one round.
Betting Systems: Consider using betting systems to help manage your bankroll effectively. Systems like the Martingale (doubling your bet after a loss), Paroli (doubling your bet after a win), or D’Alembert (increasing your bet by one unit after a loss and decreasing by one unit after a win) provide structured betting approaches that can help extend your bankroll while introducing some strategic thinking to the game.
The type of roulette game you play can significantly impact your overall odds due to variations in house edge. European and French roulette are generally recommended for better odds because they only feature a single zero pocket, unlike American roulette, which includes an additional double-zero pocket.
European Roulette: With one zero pocket, European roulette has a house edge of around 2.7%, giving players slightly better odds than the American version.
French Roulette: This variant is similar to European roulette but includes additional player-friendly rules like “La Partage” or “En Prison,” which reduce the house edge further when players bet on even-money options (such as red/black or odd/even).
American Roulette: Due to the double-zero pocket, American roulette has a house edge of about 5.26%, making it less favorable for players. While American roulette can still be enjoyable, it’s best to approach it as a game of chance with higher risk.
Roulette betting systems can add structure to your game and help you keep track of your wagers, but it’s essential to understand their limitations. While no system guarantees a win, they can be used to manage betting patterns and stay within your budget.
Martingale System: This system involves doubling your bet after every loss to recover previous losses with a win. While this approach can be effective in the short term, it requires a substantial bankroll and can quickly hit table limits.
Fibonacci System: Based on the famous Fibonacci sequence, this system involves betting the sum of the previous two bets, allowing for a gradual increase in bet size. The Fibonacci system can be a more conservative option than Martingale.
Paroli System: Known as a positive progression system, Paroli encourages players to double their bet after a win rather than a loss. This approach aims to capitalize on winning streaks while limiting losses during a losing streak.
Each roulette table has a minimum and maximum betting limit, which can impact your ability to implement certain betting systems or strategies.
Low Minimum Bets: Opt for tables with low minimums if you’re using progressive systems like Martingale, as this will give you more flexibility and allow you to stay within budget for longer.
High Maximum Bets: Higher maximum bets provide a wider range for players using progressive betting systems. Be mindful, however, of the risk involved, especially when increasing bet size.
Some players believe in the idea of “hot” and “cold” numbers, where hot numbers appear frequently and cold numbers seldom do. While this belief can influence betting decisions, it’s essential to remember that each spin in roulette is independent.
Hot Numbers: These are numbers that have appeared frequently in recent spins. Some players choose to bet on these numbers, hoping the trend continues.
Cold Numbers: These are numbers that haven’t shown up recently. Some players might bet on these, believing that they are “due” for a win.
Reality Check: In roulette, each spin is independent of previous spins, so hot and cold numbers are largely a matter of perception rather than statistical advantage. While tracking numbers can add an element of fun, it’s essential to remember that roulette is a game of chance.
The thrill of roulette can sometimes make it difficult to walk away, especially if you’re hoping to recover losses or capitalize on a winning streak. Setting limits on both winnings and losses is a helpful approach to ensure responsible play.
Set a Win Goal: Decide on a target amount you’d like to win before you start. If you reach this goal, consider cashing out to secure your winnings.
Establish a Loss Limit: Equally important is setting a maximum loss limit. If you hit this limit, take it as a sign to step back and avoid chasing losses.
Take Breaks: Regular breaks can help you keep a clear head and avoid making impulsive decisions, especially if you’re experiencing losses or extended play sessions.
If you’re new to roulette or want to try different strategies without risk, online casinos often offer free versions of their games. These demo versions provide a great opportunity to learn the rules, understand different betting options, and test strategies in a low-pressure environment.
Roulette is one of the most exciting casino games, offering a blend of luck and strategy that appeals to all kinds of players. By focusing on outside bets, managing your bankroll, and knowing when to walk away, you can play responsibly while increasing your enjoyment of the game. Remember, roulette is ultimately a game of chance, so it’s essential to approach it with a mindset of entertainment rather than a guaranteed way to win. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your roulette experience, whether playing casually or trying out a strategy.
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