American Roulette and European Roulette are two popular versions of the classic casino game, each with unique characteristics that affect player odds.
American Roulette includes both a single zero (0) and a double zero (00) on the wheel, a feature that generally puts players at a disadvantage. The double zero adds an extra segment that can work against players, except when betting specifically on those fields or placing a Five Number Bet. Other bets are often less favorable due to this additional segment.
In contrast, European Roulette features a wheel without the double zero segment. The numbers are arranged differently, and there’s only one zero on a green field. While this might seem like a minor change, it significantly impacts the player’s odds, enhancing their chances of winning.
The absence of the double zero in European Roulette reduces the total number of pockets to 37, compared to 38 in American Roulette. This single difference improves the player’s odds slightly; in European Roulette, the chance of the ball landing on a chosen number is 1 in 37, whereas, in American Roulette, it is 1 in 38.
Another aspect that favors players in European Roulette is the En Prison rule. This rule applies to 1:1 bets, like red/black or odd/even. If the ball lands on zero, players can leave their bet on the table for the next spin instead of losing it. This rule provides an additional opportunity to win, as opposed to American Roulette, where no such option exists.
Overall, the absence of the double zero and the presence of the En Prison rule make European Roulette a more player-friendly version of the game. It offers better odds and strategic opportunities, making it a preferable choice for many casino enthusiasts.
