European and American roulette are two popular variations of the classic casino game. While they share similarities, there are several key differences between the two. Here’s a breakdown of the main distinctions:
The Differences Between European and American Roulette
- Wheel Layout: The most noticeable difference is the wheel layout. In European roulette, there is a single zero (0) pocket, while American roulette has both a single zero (0) and a double zero (00) pocket. This additional double zero pocket in American roulette alters the odds and affects the overall gameplay.
- House Edge: The presence of the double zero pocket in American roulette increases the house edge compared to European roulette. The house edge in European roulette is typically around 2.7%, while in American roulette, it increases to approximately 5.26%. This means that the odds of winning are slightly higher in European roulette.
- Betting Options: Despite the wheel layout differences, the betting options in both variations are generally the same. Players can make inside bets (such as straight-up, split, or corner bets) or outside bets (like red/black, odd/even, or high/low).
- En Prison and La Partage Rules: In European roulette, there are two special rules that can impact even-money bets: en prison and la partage. En prison allows players to choose whether to surrender half their bet or keep it “in prison” for another spin if the ball lands on zero. La partage is similar but automatically returns half the bet to the player. These rules can enhance the odds for players in European roulette.
- Popularity: European roulette is more commonly played in European and international casinos, while American roulette is the dominant version found in casinos in the United States. This regional popularity has led to European roulette being considered the traditional and “authentic” version of the game.
When choosing between European and American roulette, it’s important to consider the differences in odds and house edge. European roulette offers slightly better odds due to the absence of the double zero pocket, but both variations can provide an exciting and enjoyable casino experience.
