Explore the differences between European and American roulette, from wheel design to house edge. Learn how these variations impact gameplay and discover which version offers better odds for players.
What is the difference between European and American roulette
Among classic casino table games, roulette stands out for its elegance and sophistication.
While fundamentally simple to play, a key nuance exists between the two major roulette variants – European and American.
Let’s break down their distinguishing features and how they impact gameplay.
Shared Traits of All Roulette
Before examining differences, it’s helpful to review commonalities. Both American and European roulette adhere to the following standards:
- Wheel with numbered pockets – The iconic spinning wheel contains numbered slots the ball can land in to determine wins.
- Colored pockets – Slots alternate between red and black colors. The house pocket(s) remain a contrasting color.
- The layout – The felt table covering displays the numbers and allows players to place bets.
- Cylinder rotation – Dealers spin the cylinder pocket wheel in one direction, then spin the ball in the opposite direction.
- Numbered pockets run 1-36 – Standard gameplay revolves around where the ball lands in relation to your bets on the 38-number sequence.
With this shared foundation established, let’s contrast the two dominant roulette variants.
Defining the European Roulette Wheel
European roulette uses a wheel containing only a single zero pocket marked 0 along with the standard 1-36 number sequence.
The zero pocket gives the house an edge but otherwise does not impact standard gameplay mechanics. Bets relate to your chosen numbers, colors, odd/even and so forth.
Some key traits:
- 37 numbered pockets total
- Numerals 1-36 plus single 0
- Pockets alternate between red and black
- Fairly balanced simplicity of design
- Single house pocket gives a 2.70% house edge
Overall, the single zero wheel keeps gameplay straightforward and the house advantage reasonable. It allows players to concentrate on classic betting strategies. This original form remains prevalent in Europe.
Introducing the American Roulette Wheel
American roulette elevates the house edge by adding a second house pocket marked 00 alongside the standard 0 and 1-36 sequence present in European games. This double zero changes dynamics significantly.
Attributes of the American wheel:
- 38 numbered pockets total
- Numerals 1-36, plus 0 and 00
- Alternating red/black along with green 0 and 00
- Addition of the 00 pocket tilts favor further toward the house
- Double zero raises house edge to 5.26%
The extra 00 pocket became an American adaptation and increased casino profits. But it also raised the complexity for players by altering bet outcomes.
Gameplay Impacts of the Double Zero
Adding 00 to roulette wheels seems minor, but has meaningful gameplay ramifications:
- More problematic house edge – The extra 00 nearly doubles the house advantage to over 5%, making winning tougher.
- Altered bet payouts – Bets on dozens or columns now pay 2:1 instead of 3:1 to account for added risk from 00.
- More frequent losses – More pockets equates to more ways to lose, decreasing win chances per spin.
- Higher complexity – The extra element adds nuance that interrupts straightforward gameplay.
- Negated bets – 00 voids certain called bets like splits that would win on 0.
- Increased volatility – Additional pocket magnifies the high variance already inherent in roulette.
While American wheels dominate many US casinos, the classic European form remains popular worldwide for its elegance and player-friendly structure.
Choosing Your Roulette Style
When playing roulette, the version of wheel used impacts the experience and strategy. Key differences to consider:
- Simplicity or complexity – Single vs. double house pockets.
- Lower or higher house edge – 2.7% vs 5.26% on average.
- Streamlined or disrupted bets – 00 alters some bet resolutions.
- Maintaining focus – Additional decisions introduce distraction for players.
- Preferred aesthetics – European style provides a certain old-world elegance.
- Availability – Both variations are widely offered live and online.
With its pure wheel uncomplicated by 00, European roulette lets you enjoy this sophisticated casino game in its cleanest original form.
But American roulette also provides added complexity for an extra challenge. Ultimately, the nuanced difference between these closely related games gives players more choices to experience roulette however they prefer.
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