Roulette is more than just picking red or black. One interesting option is a call bet that groups a small set of numbers into a unique pattern on the layout. It might look a bit odd at first glance, but there’s a method to how those numbers connect.
This blog post covers what this bet includes, how to place it, the way the payouts work, and how it compares to other call bets, helping you decide if it matches your preferences.
Read on to learn more.
What Is the Orphelins Bet in Roulette?
This bet is one of several called “call bets” used in European and French roulette. It involves a handful of numbers that don’t fit into the two larger groups commonly played. Its French name means “orphans,” hinting at how these numbers stand apart.
Though they seem scattered on the betting layout, on the actual wheel, they form two distinct arcs. This wheel-based pattern is what the bet aims to capture.
Curious how this looks on the betting felt? We’ll break it down next.
How Do You Place the Orphelins Bet?
If you’re interested in placing this bet, a combination of inside bets is used: one chip on a single number, and four chips placed on pairs of numbers (splits). The standard setup looks like this:
- One chip straight-up on 1
- Split chips on 6/9, 14/17, 17/20, and 31/34
In total, this covers eight numbers with just five chips. Notably, the number 17 appears twice in the splits. Should 17 come up, both split bets involving it win, creating a unique payout situation within the bet.
In a physical casino, players might place these chips themselves or simply say the name of the bet for the dealer to arrange. Online games often have a shortcut that places all chips automatically.
This chip pattern directly reflects a particular set of wheel numbers, which gives the bet its identity.
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What Numbers Are Covered by Orphelins?
The bet includes eight specific numbers: 1, 6, 9, 14, 17, 20, 31, and 34.
On the roulette wheel, 1 sits by itself in one segment, while the others cluster together in a separate section. Although the table layout shows these numbers spread out, their position on the wheel explains why they are grouped as they are. Remember that 17 plays a special role by being part of two split bets.
Since the bet mixes a single number and pairs, the payouts vary depending on which number comes up.
Orphelins Bet Payouts Explained
This bet combines two types of inside bets, each with distinct payout rates:
- The single number typically pays 35 to 1
- Each split typically pays 17 to 1
For example, if you hypothetically placed one unit on each of the five chips, the total stake would be five units. Should the single number hit, it typically pays out 35 to 1, while the splits would not pay. If a split wins, it typically pays 17 to 1 and the others do not. If 17 comes up, both split bets involving it usually pay 17 to 1, increasing the total payout compared to other splits.
The exact numbers will vary depending on where you’re playing and your stake sizes, but this is the general idea: the mix of straight and split bets shapes how the winnings add up.
Next, let’s see how this bet compares to other popular call bets.
Orphelins Bet vs Other Call Bets
Call bets, sometimes called announced bets, focus on how numbers are arranged around the wheel’s rim rather than their layout on the table.
One option covers a large group near zero with 17 numbers and uses a combination of splits, corners, and a trio, requiring more chips. Another covers 12 numbers opposite the first group, built entirely from splits.
This bet covers eight numbers in two separate arcs and needs just five chips, making it more compact compared to those other two.
All these bets are essentially different ways to organise inside bets. The payout rates for each type of inside bet don’t change depending on which call bet they’re part of. Availability and minimum stakes can vary, so it’s always a good idea to check the rules where you play.
Is the Orphelins Bet Worth Playing?
Deciding to try this bet comes down to personal style and what fits your budget. It provides coverage to two wheel sections not fully included in the larger call bets, with an interesting twist involving the number 17.
The payout rates match those of the equivalent straight-up and split bets placed individually. The main difference lies in how the numbers are grouped together and the streamlined way the bet is arranged.
Some people might like following a wheel-based pattern without committing as many chips as the larger bets require. Others may prefer placing bets on individual numbers or simpler groupings. If this bet’s arrangement appeals and fits your limits, it’s a neat way to keep track of these two arcs without covering a huge portion of the table.
As always, keep things balanced by setting a clear budget and taking breaks when needed. If you choose to try this bet on our roulette tables, always keep responsible gambling practices in mind and never wager more than you are willing to lose.
