Roulette is one of the most iconic and visually thrilling games available on any casino floor.
The variation you decide to play has a massive impact on your mathematical chances of walking away a winner.
The Extra Number That Changes Everything
The European roulette wheel features 37 slots in total: numbers 1 through 36, plus a single green zero.
That extra double zero on the American wheel might look harmless, but it drastically increases the operator’s profit margin.
- The single zero is the only reason the casino makes a profit on Red/Black or Odd/Even wagers
- Adding a second zero effectively doubles the speed at which you will statistically lose your bankroll
- The visual layout of the numbers on the wheel itself is also completely different between the two versions
Advanced European Roulette Rules
Certain high-end European tables utilize the ‘La Partage’ rule, which further reduces the house advantage.
These rules effectively cut the house edge in half again, dropping it to a phenomenally low 1.35% on outside bets.
| Wheel Style | Player Recommendation | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Double Zero | Avoid completely | The math is terrible for the player |
| Single Zero | Play this version exclusively | Offers a fair and reasonable chance to win |
By simply choosing the European wheel, you instantly double your expected mathematical longevity at the casino.
