Spotting the Distinctions: Differences European American Roulette

1. Game Layout

• The primary distinction between the American Roulette Wheel and the European Roulette Wheel lies in the layout. The American version features 38 pockets, while the European version includes 37.
• The difference in the number of pockets arises from the American wheel featuring both a single ‘0’ pocket and an additional ‘00’ pocket.

On the other hand, the European variant has just one ‘0’ pocket. Apart from this difference, both roulette types share 18 black and 18 red pockets each. Although the ‘00’ is the key difference, American roulette wheels also arrange numbers in a counterclockwise sequence compared to the European counterpart. 

2. House Edge

• Another significant difference arises from the house edge, significantly influencing players’ roulette preferences. In American roulette, the house edge typically stands at approximately 5.26%, nearly double that of the European variant.
• The discrepancy stems from the American roulette wheel incorporating both ‘0’ and ‘00’ pockets, giving the house a more substantial advantage, especially concerning even-money bets.
• Since payout strategies remain consistent across different formats, playing European roulette offers better winning odds due to its lower house edge.

Conversely, European roulette boasts a house edge of about 2.7%, achieved by the presence of just one ‘0’ pocket on the wheel. Although the difference may seem small—just a single pocket—it significantly affects long-term winning prospects. 

3. The Exception to the House Edge

• The house edge inevitably chips away at the bankroll of the average player over time, functioning like a transaction fee, irrespective of whether they win or lose.
• However, professional players employing roulette systems can predict winning numbers, substantially enhancing their chances of success. In fact, their precision in predicting outcomes can result in a significant player edge, far surpassing the 2.7% house edge.

In certain cases, a player’s edge can reach up to 120%. In such scenarios, the specific roulette wheel being used, whether European or American, becomes less pivotal. The critical factor shifts to the computer’s predictability in spins and its ability to provide a substantial player edge. 

4. Odds and RTP

• Some players may underestimate the impact of a single pocket on the roulette wheel, questioning how significant it could be. However, a quick look at statistics reveals that European Roulette’s odds and Return to Player (RTP) provide a considerable advantage to players. 

5. Game Rules

While the fundamental rules of roulette are consistent across game variants, specific differences in gameplay emerge when playing European versus American roulette. European roulette introduces two advantageous rules for players:

• En Prison Rule: This rule grants players an additional spin if they place an even-money bet and the ball lands in the ‘0’ pocket, significantly reducing the house edge to as low as 1.35%.
• Call Bets: European roulette allows players to make ‘call bets,’ which are announced to the dealer instead of placing chips directly on the betting tables. These bets are employed when a player wishes to execute more complex betting actions and include options like Red Split and Neighbors.

6. Red Split & Neighbors

• In American roulette, a unique ‘5 number bet’ is possible, covering 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3. However, this high-risk bet significantly raises the house edge to 7.9%, making it one of the least profitable wagers despite a 6:1 payout.
• Avoiding this type of bet is advisable whenever possible. Additionally, note that some rules may not apply to online roulette variations, necessitating a review of applicable rules before engaging in either American or European roulette.

An intriguing aspect of roulette gameplay revolves around the potential for imbalanced wheels. This imbalance can occur due to manufacturing defects or wear and tear, causing certain numbers to be favored over others.