Roulette is one of the most famous casino games in the world. The reasons for this popularity are its simplicity of play, the aesthetic appeal of the game, and the variety of betting options available. However, not all roulette is the same. One of the most important differences lies in the contrast between European and American roulette odds.
At first, this may seem like a subtle distinction, but the implications of this difference can be quite important for the overall value of the game. It is important for anyone who wishes to play the game more intelligently and responsibly to understand how each version of the game operates.
The Essential Distinction Boils Down to the Wheel
In mechanical terms, the difference in European and American roulette is the number of pockets that the roulette wheel has.
The European roulette wheel consists of 37 pockets. These are numbered from 1 to 36, with one zero. The American roulette wheel consists of 38 pockets. In this variation, in addition to numbers from 1 to 36 and one zero, there is one double zero.
That extra pocket may not appear significant at first, but it is a completely different story when it comes to odds.
The Role of the Extra Zero on the House Edge
The house edge is the mathematical advantage that the casino enjoys. The house edge in European Roulette is about 2.7 percent. It means that the casino will retain $2.70 out of every $100 wagered.
In the case of American roulette, the presence of the double zero raises the house advantage to about 5.26 percent. This is practically double the advantage present in the European roulette.
The payoffs for the bets in both versions of the game are the same, even with the greater number of losing results in the American roulette. This makes the American wheel less favorable.
Odds Comparison on General Bets
The difference in odds can be explained by examining individual bets.
Consider the bet placed directly on the number. For both the European and the American roulette, the payout ratio for this type of bet is 35 to 1. There is, however, a difference in the probability of winning the bet. For the European roulette, the probability of winning the bet is 1/37. For the American roulette, the probability of winning the bet is 1/38.
The same holds when considering even money wagers on red or black. In European Roulette, there are 18 red pockets, 18 black pockets, and one zero pocket. In American Roulette, there remain 18 red and 18 black pockets, with two green zeros.
This implies that even money bets are won less often on an American roulette wheel, even though the payoff odds are the same.
Why European Roulette Is Generally Recommended
From a strategic point of view, European Roulette is seen as the preferable choice for players. The lower house edge allows players’ funds to last longer, giving them more time at the table and access to more playing opportunities.
In fact, some European roulette games have favorable rules for players, including the ‘La Partage’ rule or ‘En Prison’ rule. These rules can lower the house edge even more, especially when it comes to even-money bets, when the ball lands on zero.
Where players are interested in placing bets on something with greater value and potential for longevity, European roulette always proves to be the smarter game to choose.
Regional Differences in Online Availability
While land-based casinos in the United States heavily feature the double-zero wheel, the online landscape in Europe operates differently. In regulated markets like Ireland, the single-zero European wheel is often the standard due to high player demand for better odds. You can see this preference reflected in the game lobbies of major operators servicing the region.
For example, the selection at casino.netbet.ie/roulette prioritizes single-zero variants, which is typical for platforms complying with European gaming standards. This allows players to verify the rule set before joining a table. In contrast to physical venues where you might be forced to play whatever wheel is on the floor, online platforms give you the freedom to check the house edge and ensure you are playing the version that offers the best statistical value.
Does Playing American Roulette ever make sense?
American roulette is preferred by some players despite its having a higher house edge. This can be attributed to familiarity, especially for players who are used to casinos found in America. Additionally, the aesthetically pleasing nature of the double zero wheel is a major attraction.
Further, casual gamers who prioritize entertainment over long-term value may also be less interested in the mathematical difference. For short gaming sessions, the variance can easily overpower the impact of the edge.
However, if one is serious about learning about odds and how to make educated decisions, the choice of roulette will always be European roulette.
Making Smarter Choices
One of the simplest ways to optimize the quality of your play and gamble smartly is to comprehend the difference between European and American roulette. This does not include complicated strategies or calculations. The point is to select the version that has the best possible odds.
Those players who choose to take the time to understand the mechanics of the game will find themselves in a much better position right from the start.
Conclusion
Indeed, the game of roulette is based on chance. However, not all the options in the game are the same. The existence of European and American versions of the game is one way in which slight variations in the rules lead to vastly different results.
By being aware of the role of the extra zero and its impact on the odds, players can make well-informed decisions and enjoy the game with confidence. As far as people trying to gamble wisely are concerned, it is imperative to know the different versions of roulette.
