Roulette is one of the most iconic casino games. Its allure comes from its simple rules, elegant wheel, and potential for big payouts. However, not all roulette wheels are created equal. Players can find two distinct types of roulette in casinos around the world: American and European. Both share the same basic concept, but there are important differences in their design and gameplay that can influence odds and strategies. In this article, InPlaySoft will explore the differences and similarities between American and European roulette, as well as offer some helpful tips for maximizing your chances of winning.
Similarities Between American and European Roulette.
At the heart of American and European roulette is the same basic concept: a wheel with numbered pockets, a ball that spins around the wheel, and players who bet on where they think the ball will land. The rules and overall experience of the game are almost identical, with the main objective being to predict the correct number or category of numbers that the ball will land in. The main similarities are:
- Basic Layout: Both versions feature a roulette wheel divided into numbered pockets. In European roulette, there are 37 pockets (1-36 plus a zero), while in American roulette, there are 38 pockets (1-36, a zero, and a double zero). Despite this difference, the basic layout of the betting table is nearly identical in both versions.
- Betting Options: Both versions offer a variety of betting options. Players can place inside bets (on individual numbers or small groups of numbers) or outside bets (on larger categories, such as red or black, odd or even, or high or low). The bet types available are the same in both American and European roulette, offering players flexibility and strategy options.
- Wheel Spinning: Roulette works the same way in both versions. The dealer spins the wheel in one direction while throwing the ball in the opposite direction. Players place their bets and the ball eventually lands in one of the pockets. If the ball lands in a pocket that matches the player's bet, he or she wins according to the payout odds.
- Payouts: The payout structure in both versions of roulette is the same for all bet types. A straight bet on a single number, for example, pays 35 to 1 in both versions, while a bet on either red or black pays 1 to 1. The differences in odds between American and European roulette are a result of the pocket added in the American version.
- Number of Pockets European Roulette: The European roulette wheel has 37 pockets, numbered from 0 to 36. The presence of a single zero means that there is a smaller house edge. American Roulette: American roulette, on the other hand, contains 38 pockets. In addition to the numbers 1 through 36 and a single zero, it includes a second green pocket, labeled "00" (double zero). This extra pocket increases the house edge and decreases the player's chances of winning.
House Edge.
The house edge refers to the advantage the casino has over the player in any given game. The difference in the number of pockets has a significant impact on the house edge.
- European Roulette: With only one pocket with a zero, the house edge is 2.7%. This means that for every $100 wagered, the casino expects to keep $2.70 on average over the long run.
- American Roulette: The additional space with two zeros increases the house edge to 5.26%. This means that for every $100 wagered, the casino keeps $5.26 on average over time. The increased house edge in American roulette means that players have a lower chance of winning in this version of the game compared to European roulette.
The Rules of En Prison and La Partage.
In many European roulette games, players benefit from special rules that further reduce the house edge on even-money bets:
- La Partage: This rule allows players to win back half of their your bet if the ball lands on zero when placing an even money bet (such as red or black, odd or even). This rule effectively halves the house edge on these bets, reducing it to 1.35%.
- En Prison: Similar to La Partage, the En Prison rule allows players to keep their bet "in prison" for the next round if the ball lands on zero. If the next round is successful, the bet is returned to the player; otherwise, the casino accepts the bet. This rule also reduces the house edge for even money bets. These rules are typically absent in American roulette, further tilting the odds in the casino's favor.
Tips for Players.
Understanding the differences between American and European roulette can help players make better decisions. Here are some tips to keep in mind when playing roulette:
- Go for European Roulette: If you have a choice, always go for European roulette. With a single zero and a lower house edge, it offers better odds than American roulette, making it a smarter choice for players who want to maximize their chances of winning.
- Understand the House Edge: Be aware of how the house edge works in both versions of roulette. In American roulette, the added double zero increases the house edge, meaning your money is likely to be at risk more quickly. This makes betting strategies like the Martingale (doubling your bets after a loss) more volatile and less effective in American roulette.
- Take Advantage of Special Rules: If you’re playing European roulette, look for games that offer the La Partage or En Prison rules. These rules reduce the house edge on even-money bets and give players a better chance of winning.
- Manage Your Bankroll: Always set a budget before you sit down at the table. Roulette can be an exciting game, but it can also drain your bankroll quickly if you’re not careful. Keep your balance and don't chase losses.
- Know your bets: While inside bets on individual numbers have higher payouts, they also carry higher risk. Outside bets, such as red or black, odd or even, and high or low, offer lower payouts but are more likely to win. If you're looking for more consistent wins, outside bets may be the answer.
Final Thoughts.
While American and European roulette share many similarities, the differences between them, particularly the number of pockets and the house edge, have a significant impact on gameplay. European roulette offers better odds due to its single zero, and players can benefit from rules like La Partage and En Prison. On the other hand, American roulette has a higher house edge due to the additional double zero, making it a less favorable option for most players.
By understanding the differences between these two versions and using smart strategies, players can increase their enjoyment of roulette and increase their chances of winning. Whether playing for fun or aiming for big prizes, understanding the mechanics of the game is essential to making good decisions and managing bets effectively.
Contact InPlaySoft.
InPlaySoft specializes in providing cutting-edge iGaming solutions, tailored to meet the changing needs of today's gaming operators. Founded in 2020 in London, our company has fully compliant KYC and document checks worldwide, as well as being fully adapted to existing and future Brazilian regulations. It is a multi-tenant platform, with which clients can manage multiple brands from the same back office.
