Roulette varieties: European, American, French


Introduction

Roulette is one of the most recognizable and popular games in online casinos. Its essence is extremely simple: players bet on a number, color or combination, and the outcome is decided by the rotation of the wheel with the ball. However, roulette has several key varieties that differ in rules and odds of winning: European, American and French. These three formats determine how big the casino advantage is and which strategies are best used.

European roulette

Features

The wheel contains 37 sectors: numbers from 1 to 36 and one zero (0).
The advantage of the casino is 2.7%, which makes it the most popular among players.
Players can bet on both simple chances (red/black, even/not enough) and complex combinations.

Advantages for the player

Balanced combination of risk and payments.
A smaller advantage of the casino compared to other versions.
Suitable for both beginners and experienced users.

American roulette

Features

The wheel contains 38 sectors: numbers from 1 to 36, one zero (0) and double zero (00).
The casino advantage rises to 5.26%.
Payments are the same as in European roulette, but the chances of winning are lower.

Advantages and disadvantages

Faster and more dynamic format.
Suitable for players who are looking for a high level of excitement.
A significant disadvantage: the probability of winning is worse than in other versions.

French roulette

Features

The wheel is similar to the European one: 37 sectors, one zero.
The main difference is special rules:
  • La Partage: If zero falls, the player gets back half bet on equal odds.
  • En Prison: Betting on equal odds at zero "freezes" on the next spin.
  • The advantage of casinos on bets with equal chances is reduced to 1.35%, which makes it the most profitable for players.

Advantages for the player

Minimal casino advantage.
Favorable conditions for long-term play.
More complex rules that require understanding nuances.

Comparison of roulette varieties

CharacteristicsEuropeanAmericanFrench
Number of sectors37 (with one zero)38 (with zero and 00)37 (with one zero)
Casino Advantage2.7%5.26%1.35% (with rules)
Risk LevelMediumHighLow
Rule ComplexitySimpleSimpleMedium

Conclusion

Roulette varieties form different conditions for players. European roulette is considered the gold standard thanks to balanced odds. The American version attracts with dynamics, but almost doubles the advantage of the casino. French roulette offers the best conditions for betting on equal chances and is suitable for those who want to minimize risks.

For beginners, European roulette will be the best choice, for lovers of classics with minimal risk - French, and for those who play for pure adrenaline - American.