Roulette is primarily a game of luck, as the outcome of each spin is determined by random chance. The layout of the wheel and the distribution of numbers are designed to ensure randomness and make it difficult to predict where the ball will land.

A player may bet on single numbers, rows of numbers, or on adjacent numbers. A player also may play colors, odd or even numbers, among others. A bet on a single number pays 35 to 1, including the 0 and 00. Bets on red or black, odd or even pay 1 for 1, or even money.