Roulette is packed with interesting wagers, and a few stand out simply because they look different. One of the more unusual options has a distinctive name and a pattern that twists across the layout like a winding trail.
Plenty of players wonder whether this particular bet is actually offered, how it’s put together, and what happens once the wheel is in motion. That curiosity is understandable—it doesn’t appear on most tables, yet there’s a way to make it happen.
Read on to learn more.
What Is the Red Snake Bet in Roulette?
The Red Snake Bet refers to a group of individual number selections that trace a specific visual shape across the layout. Though not grouped on the wheel itself, these numbers create a striking zigzag pattern on the felt.
In total, the bet includes twelve red numbers: 1, 5, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 23, 27, 30, 32, and 34. Each is selected using a separate chip. What makes the Snake stand out is that it builds on straight-up bets—each number is chosen on its own, rather than through a shared area like splits or dozens.
This format doesn’t alter how roulette functions, but the visual order appeals to those who like structure in how they choose their numbers.
How Does the Red Snake Bet Work on the Roulette Table?
In practice, the Snake involves placing twelve chips individually on the numbers mentioned earlier. Unlike some preset wagers, there’s no shortcut or designated area for the Snake—just twelve precise placements made one by one.
This means that the total stake is simple to calculate: one chip per number. For instance, placing £1 per position results in a £12 spin. The numbers span multiple rows, but the shape they form is clear once all chips are down. Many players enjoy the visual of confirming the pattern before each spin.
Of course, knowing how to place it is one thing—but does the casino allow it?
Do Casinos Allow the Snake Bet?
Since the Snake isn’t displayed as a preset or announced bet on most tables, it often goes unlabelled. Still, the majority of casinos will allow players to place the twelve red-number chips if they choose to.
The key lies in understanding that the Snake is simply a collection of individual number bets. If the name isn’t recognised by the dealer or interface, describing it as “these twelve red numbers” is typically enough.
Whether it can be used often comes down to two main considerations:
- Minimums per number: some tables set limits per chip, which makes twelve-number groupings more expensive.
- Game types: while some digital versions let you save custom layouts, including this one, not all titles offer that feature.
In any case, the chips are handled exactly like any other straight-up selections. But what do these selections return?
Red Snake Bet Odds and Payouts Explained
When the twelve numbers of the Snake are covered, about 32.4% of the wheel is active, on a European layout with 37 numbers. Each individual chip functions as a standalone straight-up, returning 35 to 1 when it hits.
To break it down:
- Stake: £12 total (12 x £1 chips)
- If a covered number lands: £36 is returned—£35 in winnings plus the £1 chip—while the other eleven chips are lost. This leaves a net gain of £24.
- If none hit: the entire £12 is lost for that spin.
The overall outcome follows standard expectations. On European wheels, the house retains a consistent 2.70% share. That equates to an average of about £0.32 lost per £12 bet over repeated spins. On American wheels with 38 pockets, the margin increases to 5.26%.
Also worth noting: the zigzag is purely visual. While it appears structured on the table, the numbers are scattered across the actual wheel.
But payout maths only tells part of the story—how it feels to play also matters.
Is the Red Snake Bet Worth Playing?
If you’re considering the Red Snake Bet, whether it suits you really comes down to what you’re looking for at the roulette table. Compared to placing a single chip on one number, the Snake creates a more involved spin—it gives you twelve chances for a hit, while still offering the standard 35 to 1 payout if one of your chosen numbers lands.
Of course, there are a few things you might want to weigh up:
- Outlay per spin: Since the Snake uses twelve individual chips, the total cost per round is higher than a single-number bet. When one of your numbers hits, the return is sizeable, but each spin without a match can take a more noticeable chunk from your balance.
- Outcome over time: Because it’s built entirely from straight-up bets, the underlying return remains the same as it would with any similar wager. What changes is the way those results play out across spins—more frequent hits, but also more at stake each time.
- Style of play: You might enjoy the process of setting out a clean zigzag pattern and making sure each position is covered before the wheel spins. Or you might prefer broader areas like red/black or dozens, which typically involve fewer fluctuations from one spin to the next.
So, if you like structured number selections and the idea of seeing more of the table covered each time, the Red Snake can offer a more dynamic approach, without altering the base mechanics of the game. If the format appeals to you and the minimums match your preferred spend, it might be an engaging way to approach roulette.
Discover The Best Roulette Casinos Online
If you’re considering exploring different types of roulette, the site you choose can shape how straightforward and enjoyable the experience feels. Some casinos offer a broader range of games, more flexible betting options, and support that’s straightforward to access if needed.
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If you decide to play online, it’s worth taking a moment to find a platform that matches your preferences. Choosing a site with the right features can help you manage your play, play within your comfort zone, and enjoy the game on your terms.
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