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Blog │ Labouchère system: online roulette strategy
Blog │ Labouchère system: online roulette strategy

28/11/2023 16:00

Labouchère system: online roulette strategy

In this article, the Labouchere system will be examined. As we explain this strategy’s complexities we also draw attention to its potential drawbacks and illustrate it with concise real-world examples. We also examine other tactics that can improve your roulette experience at a legal online casino in addition to the Labouchere system. This guide provides useful tips to maximize your game strategy regardless of your level of experience playing online roulette.

Three piles of coins with the PepperMill Casino logo in front of a gold text box with 'The Labouchère Strategy' written on it.

What is the Labouchère strategy?

Playing online roulette with the Labouchere strategy sometimes referred to as the Split-Martingale or cancellation system is an exciting strategy. This tactic has a long history and is heavily based in mathematics. The system was developed in the 19th century by British politician and ardent gambler Henry Labouchere and it has proven to be enduring. Games of chance like roulette and other casino games were very popular when Henry lived.

Through a simple method, you can set and achieve your own profit goals. As a result, this remains a popular strategy in both Belgian online casinos and far beyond.

How does the Labouchère strategy work?

Now that you know the history of the Labouchere strategy lets examine its operation. This betting technique is known as a negative progressive system which means that you raise your stakes following a loss and decrease them based on prior performance.

The unique thing about Labouchere is that you start by setting a specific profit target. You create a series of numbers that make up your target amount. With each bet, you use the sum of the outer numbers in your sequence. If you win, you strike out these numbers; if you lose, you add the lost amount to the end of your series. This method requires you to continue until all the numbers are crossed out or your win target is reached.

The Labouchère strategy is a flexible system, where you can change the range of numbers if the bets get too high. This keeps you in control and allows you to adjust your strategy according to the course of the game.

Example of the Labouchère strategy:

Now that you know the basics of Labouchere strategy, it's time for a concrete example of this online roulette system.

Suppose you have decided that your goal is to win €20. To achieve this, you create a series of numbers that add up to your goal amount. For example, you choose 1-2-3-4-5-5. This sequence adds up to €20. You begin your game by placing a bet equal to the sum of the first and last number in your sequence, in this case 1 + 5 = €6.

Imagine, you win your first bet, great! Now you strip away the outer numbers in your sequence, leaving you with 2-3-4-5. Your next bet is again the sum of the outer numbers, so 2 + 5 = €7. If this bet also wins, you again strip away the outer numbers, leaving you 3-4. Your next bet is then €7 (3 + 4). If you win this round, you will have crossed out all the numbers and reached your goal of €20 profit.

But what if you lose? Let's go back to your first bet of €6. If it loses, you add the lost amount to the end of your sequence. Your sequence then looks like this: 1-2-3-4-5-5-6. Your next bet is then the sum of the new outer numbers, 1 + 6 = €7. If this bet loses, you add €7 again to the end of the sequence, making it 1-2-3-4-5-6-7. Your next bet is then 1 + 7 = €8, and so on.

Very simple principle that requires good control of your bankroll and discipline. It is also important to consider table limits, because if your bets get too high, you may not be able to continue with the system as planned.

This example illustrates the dynamics of the Labouchere strategy. It is a strong roulette strategy that is exciting and also challenging. It offers a structured way to approach your game and work towards a goal.

Pitfalls of the Labouchère system

The Labouchere strategy is a structured way of playing roulette with some pitfalls to watch out for. One of the challenges is the rapidly increasing balance after a series of losses. As you add the lost amount to the end of your series after each loss, the required bets can grow exponentially. This can lead to exceeding your comfort zone and table game limits at the online casino.

A house edge is another feature of roulette that guarantees long-term success for the casino. Because of this it's critical to maintain reasonable expectations and realize that no strategy can ensure success.

Another pitfall of the Labouchere strategy is its complexity. Unlike simpler systems such as the Martingale strategy, Labouchere requires more thought and planning. Keeping track of your string of numbers, especially as it gets longer after successive losses, can be confusing and requires discipline and focus. This can be especially tricky in a lively casino environment or when playing under pressure.

Moreover, the Labouchere strategy can lead to taking greater risks to chase losses. It is useful to set limits to limit financial losses. Stick to your budget and don't go over it. This can lead to chasing your losses and that creates a dangerous mindset.

It is and always will be a strategy to play a game of chance in a dynamic manner. This makes the game more fun to hold a rule but does not guarantee that you will win in a casino.

PepperMill's tips for using the Labouchère system

At PepperMill Casino, we understand the appeal of the Labouchere strategy, but we also stress the importance of playing responsibly. Therefore, we would like to provide some tips that can help you use this strategy safely and effectively.

First, set a clear win goal and loss limit before you start playing. It's easy to get swept up in the excitement of the game, but at PepperMill Casino we recommend that you always keep a predetermined budget. This will help you stay within your financial limits and prevent you from betting more than you can afford to lose.

A second tip is to get familiar with the strategy and rules of roulette before applying it in a live casino. Practice with the Labouchere strategy in a risk-free environment, such as an online simulator or with fake money. This gives you the chance to understand the dynamics of the strategy without financial risk. At PepperMill Casino, we have lots of demo games that you can try out with no obligation.

Thirdly, keep your expectations of the odds reasonable. Recall that there is no method that can outwit the house advantage. Although the Labouchere strategy does not ensure a win, roulette is still a game of chance. Keeping your emotions in check is also essential.

Chasing losses or raising stakes in an effort to turn a profit quickly can be very alluring. Our recommendation is to maintain composure, exercise clear thinking and adhere to your budget and pre-planned roulette strategy.

Finally, consider adjusting the length of your number series. A shorter sequence means less risk and a smaller potential loss sequence.

Alternative roulette strategies

Besides the Labouchere strategy, there are other roulette strategies you can explore, each with their unique playing style and approach. If you're looking for alternative strategies, definitely consider the following systems we've already gone over like the Fibonacci strategy, the Paroli system, the d'Alembert system, and the Tarsoj system.

The Fibonacci strategy is famous for its mathematical sequence that determines your next bet by the previous two. This is a less aggressive approach than the Labouchere and Martingale systems, though. Remember, though, that the risk of large losses is lower so the recovery from losses is also slower.

The Paroli system is also referred to as the reverse Martingale system. After a round of winnings you double your bet using this strategy. Therefore after you win a whole series you get to enjoy your hot streak. . Conservative players also favor the dAlembert system as a tactic. By using this method you can use it to both increase and decrease your bet by one unit in response to wins and losses respectively.

The d'Alembert system is another well-liked option particularly for players who want a more cautious strategy. With this method you wager one unit more after a loss and one unit less after a win. Although this strategy is less risky than the Martingale and Labouchere approaches it still calls for focus and self-control.

Each of these tactics provides a different approach to the roulette game improving your experience. Try out these various roulette strategies to determine which one best fits your style of play. Recognize that there is no method that can improve your chances of winning and play sensibly.