The game of roulette derives its name from a French origin meaning a small wheel. A very primitive form of roulette was introduced by a Mathematician, known as Blaise Pascal in 17th Century France. He introduced the wheel only as an experiment but it is said that one of his friends saw the spinning wheel as a great prospect for gambling. It was initially played in Paris and was first noticed in 1765. This gaming layout and rules resemble the roulette that we play in the modern days.

Roulette is considered to be one of the oldest casino games. Though the origin of the game of roulette is traced back to French culture but some are of the opinion that the game was brought to Europe by the Dominican monks from China. At times a Roman reference is also associated with roulette.

In later years, the emigrants from France brought this game to USA. In 1800, in New Orleans the first American casino was set up. The game became very popular in America with the Gold Rush in California. Soon after in 1861, Monaco came to be known as a hub for playing casino games with establishment of a casino. In Europe this game was banned in 1873.

Several legends are associated with roulette. The most popular being about Francois Blanc. It is said that he founded a casino in Monte Carlo and is known to sell his soul to devil to acquire the secret knowledge about roulette. And if the numbers on a roulette wheel is added, it will sum up to 666, known as the number of the Devil. Blanc was also known for introducing the 0 slot on the spinning wheel.

By 20th Century, casinos at Monte Carlo continued the gaming style following the traditional single zero French wheel and the casinos at Las Vegas followed the double zero American style of playing. Generally the trend of playing with double zero wheel is prevalent in areas of South America, USA and Caribbean Islands whereas single zero wheel strategy is followed elsewhere.

Now roulette can be played at a casino online and in a land-based casino around the world. The French casino en ligne gratuit is a great place to try playing roulette for the first time. You can play for free using your online casino bonus, get a feel for the game and hopefully make some money in the process. Good luck!