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European Roulette, French Roulette, and American Roulette are well-known versions of the classic casino game. Although they share many similarities, it is important to understand their distinct characteristics. This article delves into the key differences between these three roulette styles, highlighting their unique rules, table layouts, and house edges.

European Roulette

European Roulette is one of the most common versions you will find at leading online casinos across Europe. The wheel features 36 numbered pockets plus a single zero (0). This version is widely favored by players. Regarding odds, European Roulette ranks in the middle, with French Roulette offering the best odds and American Roulette the least favorable.

Because of this balance, European Roulette appeals to a broad range of players. To see the benefits this variant offers, consider trying a free demo of European Roulette.

The table layout is very straightforward, with the number grid arranged horizontally. Below the grid, outside bets are split into two rows: the top row contains the three dozen bets, while the bottom row holds options such as Low, Even, Red, Black, Odd, and High bets.

French Roulette

French Roulette uses the same wheel and betting options as European Roulette, making the two versions very similar. However, French Roulette introduces two important rules that give players a distinct advantage.

These special rules are ‘La Partage’ and ‘En Prison’. With La Partage, if the ball lands on zero and you lose an even-money outside bet, you get back half your wager. The En Prison rule gives you a second chance to reclaim your stake when the ball hits zero by keeping your bet “imprisoned” for another spin.

These player-friendly rules are exclusive to French Roulette and significantly improve the odds. To experience why this variant is so attractive, try popular free online French Roulette games.

The layout of the French Roulette table is slightly different from its European and American counterparts. The number grid is placed horizontally, but outside bets are positioned on both sides of the grid, and the dozen bets appear on both the upper and lower right sides.

American Roulette

American Roulette stands apart from the French and European versions primarily because of its wheel design and number arrangement. The addition of a double zero (00) pocket changes the game considerably, especially affecting the house edge.

If you seek a more intense roulette experience, free online American Roulette games offer that thrill.

The American Roulette table layout is similar to the European version but with some subtle differences. The number grid is vertical, with the zero and double zero bets placed on the left side, and outside bets located beneath the grid.

About Odds

The type of wheel used greatly influences the odds of winning. French and European Roulette have a noticeably lower house advantage compared to American Roulette.

European Roulette has 37 possible outcomes, so your chances of winning a single-number bet are 1 in 37, giving odds of 36:1.

French Roulette benefits from its La Partage and En Prison rules, which allow players to reclaim up to half their stake or get a second chance to win. This effectively reduces the house edge to approximately 1.35%.

Betting Comparison

Roulette offers one of the most diverse selections of betting options in the casino. Players can wager on specific numbers, groups of numbers, colors, and other categories. While European, French, and American Roulette share many betting types, there are subtle differences.

American Roulette generally offers poorer odds than the other two variations. This is mainly because it pays out the same amount for a winning bet, despite having lower actual odds due to the extra zero.

The presence of the double zero greatly impacts the odds and return-to-player (RTP) percentages. Consequently, American Roulette is widely regarded as the least favorable choice for players in terms of odds and expected returns.

Final Thoughts

Overall, French Roulette is considered the most advantageous roulette variant. It offers better odds than both European and American Roulette, thanks mainly to the La Partage rule, which lowers the house edge.

Once you get past the unfamiliar terminology found on the betting layout, you’ll find yourself winning more often playing French Roulette.

I hope this article has clarified the key differences between the main roulette versions and helps you choose the best game for your playing style.