Roulette is one of the most iconic and visually thrilling games available on any casino floor.
The variation you decide to play has a massive impact on your mathematical chances of walking away a winner.
The Extra Number That Changes Everything
On a European table, the presence of the single zero is what prevents the even-money bets from being perfectly 50/50.
Conversely, the American layout adds an extra green slot—the double zero—significantly altering the math of the game.
- The single zero is the only reason the casino makes a profit on Red/Black or Odd/Even wagers
- Adding a second zero effectively doubles the speed at which you will statistically lose your bankroll
- The visual layout of the numbers on the wheel itself is also completely different between the two versions
Why French Roulette is Even Better
In addition to the better wheel layout, some European (often called French) tables offer incredibly favorable special rules.
These rules effectively cut the house edge in half again, dropping it to a phenomenally low 1.35% on outside bets.
| Roulette Variation | Number of Zeros | House Edge (Standard Bets) |
|---|---|---|
| American | Two (0, 00) | 5.26% |
| European | One (0) | 2.70% |
By simply choosing the European wheel, you instantly double your expected mathematical longevity at the casino.