The above two roulette wheels, an American and a European, can be compared side by side and spun to obtain realistic results. You can also track the spin results that are updated below each roulette wheel. These interactive simulators help to show the visual differences between the two types of roulette wheels and allow the wheels to be spun to compare the results. Let's dive deeper...

American vs European Roulette: Understanding the Key Differences

Roulette is one of the most popular casino games worldwide, offering a mix of excitement, chance, and the potential for big wins. It has several versions, with American and European styles being the most played. Both offer the thrill of watching the wheel spin and the ball bounce to its final resting place, but they have different features that affect the odds and player strategy of the game.

As you can see when you see these two online roulette wheels side by side, it is clear that the European roulette wheel has one green pocket (zero). This means that if the ball lands on the wheel, the house wins. There are 36 other pockets that are marked red or black.

An American roulette wheel has two green pockets, zero and double zero. Again, the house wins if the ball lands in either of these. Similarly, there are 36 other pockets that are marked black or red.

American roulette and European roulette differ primarily in the layout of the wheels and the house advantage. The American version includes an additional pocket with double zero (00), which increases the house advantage and thus affects the player's winning chances. In contrast, the European version has a single pocket with zero (0), offering the player better odds. This distinction is crucial, as it not only affects a player's potential return on investment but also the overall strategy one might use in approaching the game.

Key Takeaways

• Variations of roulette affect game odds and strategies.
• American roulette includes an extra double zero, increasing the house advantage.
• European roulette offers improved player odds with a single zero wheel.

Historical Evolution of Roulette

The modern roulette game is the result of centuries of development, with notable differences between the American and European versions.

The Origin of Roulette

The origin of roulette can be traced back to 17th-century France. Blaise Pascal, a prominent mathematician, inadvertently laid the foundation for the prototype of the game in his quest for a perpetual motion machine. The game evolved from earlier gambling games and was structured with a spinning wheel and a ball, resembling the roulette known today.

Development of American and European variants.

The roulette game crossed the Atlantic Ocean, leading to different versions in Europe and America. European roulette remained closer to the original French game, with a single zero (0) on the wheel, giving it a lower house edge.

American roulette developed a distinctive variant, initially seen at the border and in the improvised gambling dens of the new territories. They added a double zero (00) to the wheel, increasing the house edge and creating a unique playing style. This differentiation held and marked a clear separation between the American and European versions of the game.

Roulette Variations and Rules

Roulette, a game of chance, differs significantly between American and European versions in terms of rules and layout. Understanding these differences is essential for players.

American roulette rules

American roulette has a wheel with 38 divisions, including the numbers 1 through 36, along with 0 and 00. This double zero increases the house edge to 5.26%. If a player bets on one number and wins, they receive a 35 to 1 payout. These are the basic rules:

• The croupier spins the wheel and launches the ball.
• Players bet on the number they think the ball will land on.
• Bets can be both inside and outside bets.
• Once the ball has landed, the croupier collects the losing bets and pays out the winners.

European roulette rules

In contrast, European roulette consists of a wheel with 37 divisions featuring the numbers 1 through 36 and a single 0, reducing the house edge to 2.7%. Winning with a bet on one number pays 35 to 1. The rules are similar to American roulette with a few variations:

• The wheel contains only one zero, affecting the odds.
• Bets are placed in the same manner with inside and outside options.
• The payouts are identical to those of American roulette for different types of bets.

Influence of French Roulette

French roulette also has a wheel similar to the European one, but contains two important rules that favor the players: Delen and En Prison. These rules apply only to even money bets:

• Delen: If the ball lands on zero, players lose only half of their even money bet.
• En Prison: On a spin of zero, the player can either take back half of the bet or leave it 'in prison' for another spin. If the next spin is a win, the original bet is returned.

What can you get free spins for real money?

There are several online casinos where people can play roulette and often they give free spins if you provide a bonus code. Here are some of those bonus codes:

Roulette Wheel and Table Layouts

The difference between American and European roulette lies in the design of the wheel and the betting layout, each affecting the odds and the player's strategy of the game.

Overview of American and European Wheels

American roulette wheels have 38 pockets: numbers 1 through 36, a single zero, and a double zero. The numbers are not in order and alternate between red and black, while the zeros are green. In contrast, European roulette wheels have 37 pockets with the numbers 1 through 36 and a single zero. The absence of the double zero in European roulette lowers the house edge.

Layout of the American Roulette Wheel:

• 38 pockets in total.
• Numbers 1-36 (red and black).
• Single zero (green).
• Double zero (green).

Layout of the European Roulette Wheel:

• 37 pockets in total.
• Numbers 1-36 (red and black).
• Single zero (green).

Table Layouts and Betting Options

The layout of a roulette table matches the wheel to enable various betting options. European roulette tables generally offer standard betting options, along with the rules en prison or la partage, which offer player-friendly returns on certain bets when a zero is rolled. American roulette tables offer similar betting options, but the odds are slightly skewed due to the double zero.

Betting Options on an American Roulette Table:

• Inside Bets: Single numbers, splits, streets, corners, and six lines.
• Outside Bets: Columns, dozens, high/low, even/odd, red/black.
• Higher house edge due to double zero.

Betting Options on a European Roulette Table:

• Inside Bets: Betting on single numbers, splits, streets, corners, and six line bets
• Outside Bets: Columns, dozens, high/low, even/odd, red/black.
• The rules En Prison and La Partage apply to even money bets.

The layout for both American and European roulette is designed to make betting easy, with the outside bets surrounding the inner number grid and offering a wide range of betting options tailored to different risk preferences.

Betting Options and Payouts

In American and European roulette, players have various betting options, each with its own payout. Understanding these is essential for any roulette strategy.

Common Bets in Different Variants

In both American and European roulette, players can place multiple types of standard bets. Inside bets include the straight (a bet on a single number) with a payout of 35:1, and the split (a bet on two adjacent numbers) with a payout of 17:1. Other inside bets on the grid are the street (three numbers in a row), with a payout of 11:1, and the corner (a bet on four numbers in a square layout), which pays out 8:1.

For outside bets, players can bet on columns or dozens, both of which cover 12 numbers and offer a 2:1 payout. Additionally, even money bets on options like red/black, odd/even, or high/low offer a 1:1 payout.

• Unique Bets on American and European Roulette:

The main difference in betting options between the two versions is the 'five-number bet' exclusive to American roulette. This involves betting on the numbers 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3, with a payout of 6:1, the least favorable to the player due to the high house edge.

European roulette offers the 'in prison' rule for even money bets, where a ball landing on zero results in the player's bet being 'imprisoned' for the next spin, potentially saving the bet if the next result favors the player. This rule is unique to European roulette and significantly lowers the house edge for even money bets.

Probabilities and House Edge

In American and European roulette, probabilities and the house edge play a crucial role in the player's experience. The presence of a single or double zero significantly affects these factors.

Winners' calculations

The calculation of winning chances in roulette depends on the number of pockets on the wheel. European roulette has a total of 37 pockets (numbers 1-36 and a single zero), while American roulette has 38 (numbers 1-36, a single zero, and a double zero).

For a straight bet (betting on a single number), the winning chance in European roulette is 1 in 37 or 2.70%, while in American roulette it is 1 in 38 or 2.63%. Therefore, the payout for a winning straight bet is the same in both versions: 35 to 1.

Here is a simplified calculation of the odds for a standard bet:

• European Roulette:: 1/37 chance of winning.
• American Roulette:: 1/38 chance of winning.

The impact of zero on House Edge

The house edge, the average percentage of each bet that the casino expects to retain over the long term, is directly influenced by the zeros. In European roulette, the presence of a single zero results in a house edge of 2.70%.

On the other hand, American roulette, with an additional double zero, increases the house edge to 5.26%. This is because the extra green pocket in American roulette does not affect the payout but reduces the chance of winning for each bet.

Here is the calculation of the house edge for both wheel types:

• European roulette: (\ frac [1] [37]\ times 100) = 2.70%
• American roulette: (\ frac [2] [38]\ times 100) = 5.26%

The zeros are the main distinguishing factors, which have a significant impact on a player's odds and emphasize the house advantage in both American and European roulette.

Which roulette game is better for the player - European or American?

European roulette is better for players. This is because the chance of the ball landing on a house pocket (green) is half as likely. Additionally, the return that players get in both games when they land on a pocket is exactly the same.

In short, given the choice between European and American roulette, it would be foolish to play the American version.

Strategy for roulette players

Players often use specific betting systems and strategies to maximize their chances and manage their money. It is important to understand the mechanics and limitations of these methods.

Popular gaming systems for roulette

Martingale-systeem: Een speler die de Martingale-strategie gebruikt, verdubbelt zijn inzet na elk verlies, met het idee dat een winnende weddenschap uiteindelijk alle eerdere verliezen zal goedmaken en een winst zal behalen die gelijk is aan de oorspronkelijke inzet. De onderstaande tabel geeft een overzicht van de voortgang van de weddenschappen na elk verlies:

Fibonacci System:: This system is based on the Fibonacci sequence. Each number in the sequence is the sum of the two preceding numbers. Players increase their bets according to the sequence after a loss, and move two numbers back after a win.

Sequence example: 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21...

D'Alembert System: This strategy involves increasing the bet by one unit after a loss and decreasing it by one unit after a win. It is designed for bets with a nearly 50% chance of winning, such as even-money bets in roulette.

• Initial bet: $10
• After loss: $11
• Win: $9

These betting systems are primarily applied to even-money bets, where the chance of winning is nearly 50%.

Strategies available

Strategies Strategies encompass more than predefined betting systems; they include attention to risk management and psychological discipline. Each strategy has its limitations and should be applied with caution.

Probability and Risk: Roulette is a game of independent events, meaning that the probability of a particular outcome does not change from one spin to the next, regardless of previous results. Betting systems do not alter these probabilities.

Strategy Limitations:: No strategy can guarantee wins due to the house advantage in roulette. Players must be aware of the risks, including significant losses when progressive systems like the Martingale reach table limits or deplete players' bankrolls. It is essential to have a clear budget and stick to it.

Players can use these strategies to structure their gameplay, but must remain aware of the inherent risks and the unchanging odds of the game..

Roulette in modern gaming culture

Roulette plays a prominent role in entertainment, with significant appeal in both land-based casinos and the digital world of online gaming.

Roulette in Land-Based Casinos

Roulette stands out in the pantheon of casino games for its simplicity and elegance. Casinos in Las Vegas, known for their lavish gaming floors, continually present roulette as the centerpiece of table games. Visitors are often enticed by the spinning wheel and the characteristic sound of the ball as it circles before landing in a pocket. With European and American versions available, casinos cater to a diverse clientele. The table layout is typically as follows:

Growth of online roulette

Online casinos have transformed roulette from a traditional casino game into a virtual sensation. These platforms offer both European and American versions, providing players with accessibility and convenience to enjoy from home or on the go. They build on technological advancements to create immersive experiences with live dealers, interactive chat, and high-quality graphics. The growth of online roulette demonstrates its adaptation to the digital age, reflecting the evolution of gambling as a form of modern entertainment.

Here are some tips and practical advice for playing roulette:

When approaching roulette, a player's strategy and insight into the game nuances are crucial to enhancing their gaming experience. Good etiquette also contributes to a smoother experience at the table.

Optimal Bets and Gameplay

Best selection: Players should become familiar with the different betting options available in roulette. European roulette has a single zero, which offers the player better odds compared to American roulette, which has a double zero. Betting on outside bets, such as red/black or odd/even, offers better chances of winning compared to single number bets, albeit with smaller payouts.

• Money Management: A player's bankroll should determine the size of their bets. They may consider setting limits for wins and losses to manage their money effectively.
• Playing Within Limits: Players should choose a table that suits their budget. It is advisable to start with low-stakes tables before moving to higher stakes as they gain more confidence and experience.
• Roulette Strategy: While no strategy guarantees a win, some systems like the Martingale or D'Alembert can structure gameplay. These strategies involve adjusting bets based on previous results, but players should be aware of the risks.

Understanding roulette etiquette

Interaction with the Dealer and Players: It is important for players to be polite and respectful towards the dealer and fellow players. This creates a pleasant atmosphere and ensures the game runs smoothly.

• Handling Chips: Players should not touch their chips after the dealer has called no more bets, as this is against roulette rules.
• Placing Bets: To place a bet, a player should wait until the dealer opens the table for new bets. The chips should be clearly placed on the desired betting option on the roulette table. If they are unsure where to place chips for a bet, such as on a corner or a street, they can ask the dealer for assistance.

Every point in this section is designed to equip a player with the necessary knowledge to approach a roulette table with confidence, whether it's about maintaining their bankroll, understanding game etiquette, or simply enjoying the experience of playing in a casino.

To spin individual simulator versions of these online roulette wheels, see the links below:

• European roulette wheel simulator (best odds for players)
• American roulette wheel simulator (best odds for the casino)