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
The European roulette wheel features 37 slots in total: numbers 1 through 36, plus a single green zero.
The American wheel, however, features 38 slots: numbers 1 through 36, a single zero, AND a double zero (00).
- 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
If you can find a French roulette table, you will encounter the best possible odds for this specific game.
These rules effectively cut the house edge in half again, dropping it to a phenomenally low 1.35% on outside bets.
| Game Type | Special Rules? | House Edge (Even-Money Bets) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard European | No | 2.70% |
| French (La Partage) | Yes (Half-back on Zero) | 1.35% |
By simply choosing the European wheel, you instantly double your expected mathematical longevity at the casino.