Online Roulette Battle Of The Wheels: American Vs European
Exciting players with its blend of chance and strategy, roulette is one of the world’s most iconic games!
Whether played in a brick-and-mortar casino or enjoyed as online roulette in Canada and beyond, this game has stood the test of time. But not all roulette wheels are created equal. Two of the most beloved roulette variants are American Roulette and European Roulette – but what sets them apart?
Let’s take a spin through their histories, differences, and which version might be the best fit for you.
History of European Roulette
European Roulette, the older of the two, has its origins in 17th-century France. The game was developed from earlier wheel-based gambling games. But it was Blaise Pascal, a French mathematician, who inadvertently created a version of the roulette wheel while attempting to invent a perpetual motion machine.
By the 18th century, roulette was a fixture in the casinos of Europe. Refined over time, the game eventually adopted the now-familiar wheel with 36 numbered pockets and a single green zero (0). The inclusion of just one zero gave players better odds, making European Roulette a favourite among casino-goers.
History of American Roulette
As Europeans settled in the United States, they introduced gambling – with roulette eventually making its way across the Atlantic Ocean in the 19th century. Those early American casinos, however, made a significant modification: the addition of a second zero (00). This version, known today as American Roulette, increased the house edge, making it more favourable to casinos but slightly less advantageous for players.
American Roulette became the standard across the U.S., principally in the bustling casino hubs of Las Vegas and Atlantic City. Despite its higher house edge, the game remains popular due to its rapid action and the extra betting options created by the double zero.
American Vs European Roulette: What’s the Difference?
While both roulette variants share the same core gameplay, a few key differences set them apart:
The Zero Factor
European Roulette: One green zero (0)
American Roulette: Two green zeros (0 and 00)
Wheel Layout
The numbers on the two wheels are arranged differently. While this doesn’t impact the odds significantly, it can affect betting strategies for experienced players who use number sequences to inform their choices.
House Edge
The house edge represents the advantage the casino has over the player. In European Roulette, the single zero (0) results in a house edge of 2.7%, offering better returns for players over time. In American Roulette, the extra double zero (00) increases the house edge to 5.26%, making it a tougher game for players looking for long-term success.
Additionally, the difference in rules between the two versions impacts player odds. In European Roulette, all outside bets (such as Red/Black or Odd/Even) have better statistical returns due to the lower house edge. In American Roulette, the extra zero shifts the probability in favour of the casino, making bets slightly riskier.
Betting Options
The additional double zero (00) in American Roulette creates an extra bet type known as the Five-Number Bet (0, 00, 1, 2, 3). While this may seem appealing, it has one of the worst odds in casino roulette, with a house edge of 7.89%.
Why Play Online Roulette At Spin Casino?
Because we’ve got you covered – whether your preference is the fast action of American Roulette or the more amenable pace of European Roulette.
At Spin Casino in Canada, our online roulette games offer something for everyone thanks to fair gameplay, immersive features, and crisp-clear visuals.
But are these the only two roulette variants available? Not at all! We also offer French Roulette. It’s like European Roulette but has special rules like En Prison and La Partage, which can further lower the house edge.
That’s why Spin Casino is the ultimate destination to take your pick in the Battle of the Wheels.
Why not join us for a spin and find out which version suits you best?
