The Martingale wagering system originated in France during the 18th Century. It is presumed to have been created by Mr. John Martingale, a casino owner. John encouraged his patrons to use the system, knowing he would come out on top in the end. The system is based on the premise that, eventually, a gambler will select the winning option.
If a gambler bets on heads and loses, then the system suggests that the player makes the same bet but doubles their wager. If that next bet wins, then all losses are recouped, and the player would break even. But if the bet fails again, double the wager amount once more and make the same pick. When you do win, reset your bets back to the initial amount and continue.
Although the system sounds like a sure thing, there is a significant downside. To make this work, you would need a never-ending bankroll to fund your bets.
Continue reading as we share how to use the martingale wagering system with casino gambling and everything worth knowing about this interesting choice of gambling strategy.
Wagering Analysis
As we said, the limits on a player’s bankroll have a significant effect on coming out ahead. Popular belief is that most chance games will not have the run of ‘losses’ through the course with an either-or bet over five or six rounds.
In reality, a run of losses in many games can be much more significant. And this would quickly drain even the largest bankrolls.
How Does the Martingale Strategy Work?
The martingale wagering system is popular due to its simplicity.
Gamblers do not have to understand any complicated theories, algorithms, or changing wager amounts. Although it becomes quite ineffective when not used predominantly for 50/50 games of chance/bets. For example, games like roulette, craps using the pass/don’t pass bet, and good ole schoolyard coin flips. You can also use it in certain circumstances in baccarat.
The short of it is that if you lose double your bet and keep going until you win, you eventually win all your money back.
While this may sound foolproof, it can be misleading and create a false sense of security for players with their bankroll. They are expecting that they will have frequent small wins that will result in walking away with a large total for their session.
Don’t get ahead of yourself, though. That perception is false because there is no link between ‘rounds’ of play and the next roll, spin or flip.
The Cons of the Martingale System
While there are many reasons why players like the martingale system, there are also many reasons why players shouldn’t be too fussed about following the system.
For starters, the longer you play and continue doubling up on your bets, the higher your chances for massive losses. Meaning, the higher the likelihood of losing all your bankroll.
For example, even starting with a lowly $1 bet will result in this. But losing eight bets in a row will quickly take your losses up to $511.
So it should make sense now why players would need a neverending bankroll.
The Alternative Anti-Martingale System
Many believe the Martingale system is an example of a gambler’s fallacy. A safer alternative to the popular system includes placing slightly different bets. If you lose, your next bet is half and if you win your next bet is double.
This betting system can lead to a better return over the short term. However, if followed over a more substantial period, it can result in the complete loss of a bankroll.
How to Start with Martingale
When it comes to using the martingale strategy in casino games, it can be daunting, especially from a mental standpoint after placing a large bet straight after losing!
What we recommend is that players interested in testing this strategy out do so with free casino games like those that we link to here. Give it a go playing for free and see how it works for yourself — all while not risking your real money.
