At first glance, American roulette seems identical to its European cousin: numbered pockets, red, black and green. The wheel spins, the ball bounces, and players’ hearts race… But one detail changes everything: the presence of the ‘double zero’ (00), a subtle difference that may seem insignificant but upsets the balance of probabilities. American roulette, although iconic, hides a formidable mathematical advantage.
Two zeros, one winner: the casino
Roulette is one of the most well-known casino games. The principle is simple: players must try to guess which number the ball will land on.
The major difference between American roulette and European roulette is the 00, placed right next to the classic 0. This simple addition increases the total number of slots from 37 to 38, reducing the player’s chances on each bet.
Mathematically, this increases the casino’s advantage from 2.7% to 5.26%. In other words, for every pound wagered, players lose on average twice as much with American roulette.
The order of the numbers on the roulette wheel is also different, but the colours remain the same.
A story of probabilities… and psychology
The illusion is powerful: two almost identical versions, but potentially very different results. However, European roulette, with its single zero, offers players a slightly fairer chance.
In some countries, such as France, roulette goes even further with the ‘la partage’ rule, which refunds half the bet if the ball lands on zero during an outside bet. There is no such thing in America: zero and double zero are a dead loss, further strengthening the casino’s position.
One might legitimately wonder whether this difference is innocent. In reality, American roulette was deliberately designed to increase casino revenues. Each additional pocket dilutes the player’s chances, while offering the establishment more consistent profitability.
The player’s choice
For some players, the conclusion is clear: avoid American roulette if a European alternative is available. But this choice is not always possible. In the United States, most casinos only offer the American version, and European or French variants are often reserved for VIP rooms.
For others, it is precisely the 00 that adds excitement to each spin. The idea that the game is a little more difficult sometimes seems to reinforce the personal challenge, making victory even sweeter. Some also see it as an essential American tradition, almost a rite of passage into the world of gambling.
Best strategies for European roulette
When playing American roulette, it is recommended that you:
- Familiarise yourself with the different types of bets: Understanding the nuances between bets can help you develop a suitable strategy.
- Try out different strategies: There are many strategies and betting systems for roulette.
- Manage your bankroll wisely: Setting betting limits and sticking to them allows you to prolong your playing time and minimise potential losses.
- Play responsibly: It is essential to remember that roulette is a game of chance and the results are unpredictable.
Is American roulette a scam? No, but it is a game whose rules are designed to favour the casino, much more so than its European version. This is not a case of rigged chance, but rather a relentless statistical calculation. While chance reigns supreme in casinos, information is the player’s best ally.