If we asked people to name an iconic casino game, the chances are that at least a few of them would say Roulette. There are few games quite as synonymous with casinos as the Roulette wheel, which is one of the main offerings at the historic Monte Carlo Casino.
But what you may not realise is that there are a few different formats of Roulette out there. There are three major varieties of this classic game, each of which offers a slightly different experience for players. If you’re looking to play online casino Roulette then it’s important to understand the varieties that you’re most likely to encounter.
European Roulette
One of the most popular and recognised of the Roulette formats is the European version. This is the one that you’ll most commonly find in land-based casinos outside the US, with European Roulette being the more classic style that people associate with the game.
The European wheel features 37 numbered pockets, alternating between black and red, with a single green zero pocket. With just one zero pocket, a game of European Roulette has a lower house edge compared to the format played in the US. That’s part of why it’s still such a popular choice with players.
American Roulette
The key thing that separates American Roulette from its European counterpart is the fact that its wheel has an additional pocket. As well as the standard number of Roulette pockets, American wheels feature a double zero.
With 38 pockets instead of 37, and two of them zeros, the house edge of an American Roulette wheel is higher.
You’ll find more than a few online Roulette games that use the American wheel. So, if you’re looking to play a game of American Roulette you’ve still got options online.
French Roulette
You’d be forgiven for thinking that French Roulette is basically just European Roulette. The two are very similar, using the same basic wheel format and layout. Where they differ is in their rules.
French Roulette features two major rules known as ‘La Partage’ and ‘En Prison’, which add more elements to gameplay compared to the other main varieties.
La Partage offers players some protection when the ball lands in the zero pocket, giving them the chance to receive half of their wager back if they made an even money bet. So, if a player wagered on odd/even, black/red, or low/high they only lose half of their wager on a zero.
En Prison also comes into play if a ball lands on zero, with players having the option to put their wager ‘in prison’. This allows them to play the next spin with the same bet, offering a second chance at the ball landing in a winning pocket and getting their initial wager back from the croupier.
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Now you should be able to tell the difference between the main Roulette formats. Whenever you’re looking for a game of Roulette online, you’ll be able to find one that has the gameplay elements and rules you prefer.
