When it comes to casino games, roulette is undoubtedly one of the most popular choices. With its spinning wheel and the thrill of placing bets, roulette has captured the hearts of gamblers around the world. However, there are two main variations of this classic game: European Roulette and American Roulette. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences that set them apart..
1. Wheel Layout
The most noticeable difference between European and American Roulette lies in the wheel layout. In European Roulette, the wheel has 37 pockets numbered from 0 to 36. The numbers are alternated between red and black, with the 0 pocket being green. On the other hand, American Roulette features a wheel with 38 pockets, including a double zero (00) in addition to the single zero (0). The extra pocket in American Roulette increases the house edge, making it slightly less favorable for players.
2. House Edge
Speaking of the house edge, it is another significant difference between the two variations. In European Roulette, the house edge is around 2.7%, while in American Roulette, it is approximately 5.26%. This means that the chances of winning are slightly higher in European Roulette compared to its American counterpart. The higher house edge in American Roulette is primarily due to the additional double zero pocket, which increases the number of possible outcomes.
3. Betting Options
Both European and American Roulette offer a wide range of betting options, including inside bets and outside bets. However, there is one key difference in the betting options between the two variations. European Roulette offers the “en prison” rule, which applies to even-money bets (such as red/black or odd/even). When the ball lands on the zero pocket, players have the option to either lose half of their bet or keep it “in prison” for the next spin. This rule reduces the house edge even further, making European Roulette more favorable for players.
4. Number Sequence
The number sequence in European and American Roulette also differs slightly. In European Roulette, the numbers are arranged in a random sequence around the wheel. However, in American Roulette, the sequence is intentionally designed to maximize the difference between adjacent numbers. This arrangement is aimed at reducing the predictability of the game and adds another layer of excitement to the gameplay.
5. Availability
While European Roulette is the more traditional and widely played version of the game, American Roulette is more common in casinos across the United States. If you are playing in Europe or online, you are more likely to come across European Roulette tables. However, both variations are available in most land-based and online casinos, allowing players to choose their preferred version.
- European Roulette has 37 pockets, while American Roulette has 38.
- The house edge is lower in European Roulette compared to American Roulette.
- European Roulette offers the “en prison” rule for even-money bets.
- The number sequence differs between the two variations.
- European Roulette is more widely available in Europe, while American Roulette is more common in the US.
European Roulette and American Roulette may seem similar on the surface, but they have distinct differences that can affect the gameplay and odds. Whether you prefer the lower house edge of European Roulette or the unique features of American Roulette, both variations offer an exciting and thrilling casino experience.