Ever since it was first created way back in 1655, roulette has stolen the hearts and minds of countless punters across the globe. What started as a physicist’s attempt to create a perpetual motion machine has now become one of the most loved casino games out there. Many factors have contributed to the impressive popularity of the game including, and, perhaps most notably, the introduction of online casino gaming. Such a development has made this much-loved pastime more accessible than ever before.
However, in the centuries that have passed since its invention, the rules of roulette have evolved, and different countries have their own unique spin on the game. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the key differences between American roulette and European roulette when accessed on online casino sites.
The Wheel
Both European and American versions of online roulette feature the iconic wheel seen within traditional casinos. However, a closer inspection of these wheels will reveal the clearest difference between the two types. An American roulette wheel will always have 38 pockets that the ball can fall in, whereas its European counterpart has 37. This is because the American wheel has 36 red and black pockets and two green pockets for a single zero and a double zero, whereas European roulette only has one green pocket for a single zero. This might seem a subtle difference at first, and in many ways it is. Both kinds of games are available on instant withdrawal casino websites that offer fast payouts no matter how big or small you win. Both are also available on many sites that offer players generous bonuses. So, what are the differences?
House Edge
The differences are clear in how this affects the game itself. When we consider house edge, which is the advantage a casino has over a player when you engage in online casino gaming, the disparity between the number of pockets greatly affects the odds and therefore the Return to Player (RTP) percentage. European roulette came before American roulette, so let’s explore why the additional pocket was added and what effect it has.
To Add a Pocket or to Not Add a Pocket?
If playing European Roulette instead of American, players have a higher chance of winning. Because of the lower number of pockets in European roulette, the house edge stands at 2.7% and the odds of cashing out after betting on a specific number is 1 in 37. The choice to add an additional pocket to American roulette changed these statistics to a house edge of 5.26% and, of course, decreased the odds of a win when betting on a specific number to 1 in 38.
This was an intentional move made to benefit casinos and increase the house edge of the roulette game. There really is no other reason.
What Stays the Same?
Other than the additional pocket on the American version, both forms of roulette are pretty much identical. Particular strategies can be applied to both games, or players can lean on chance to decide the outcome of a game. Additionally, the betting options for both games are the same, punters can wager on individual numbers for a higher win, or groups of numbers. The only difference really is that little green pocket.
So, Which is Better?
When we understand why the additional pocket was added to the American version of roulette, it becomes pretty clear which version of the game is better for the average punter. In simple terms, if you play European Roulette you have a greater chance of winning. This does make European Roulette a more appealing option, but punters should be aware of all the other variations of roulette, as their only options are not just European or American.
Is There Anything Else to Consider?
Absolutely! One of the greatest strengths of online casino gaming is the versatility of the sites that provide them. You may be drawn to American or European roulette not because of the odds but because of a specific game’s theme or general vibe. Additionally, some online casinos offer alternative payment methods, such as cryptocurrency, which may be ideal for certain punters who are also interested in the possibility of their winnings increasing in value over time. There are also countless incentives and welcome bonuses that many online casinos offer to their players, so there are additional factors to take into account when deciding which form of roulette is the best fit for you.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a version of roulette that provides the greatest odds of winning, then European roulette is your best bet. Statistically, there is a higher return to player percentage on this version of the game and the house edge is significantly lower.
However, as we have explored, the odds are not the only thing to take into account when considering which online casino to access when playing roulette. It’s all about finding a version of the game you love and that has benefits that directly apply to you as a player.
