At a glance most would assume that the European and American versions of Roulette are identical. This is true as far as standard betting options are concerned, for the most part, but there is also a major difference that every serious player needs to know. After all, this tip will improve the chances of winning by a significant margin, guaranteed. It all comes down to is the 0 pocket.

Look closely and notice that the American version has an added 0 pocket, the 00. It may not seem like much but this extra pocket decreases the chances of winning by around 2%. The fact is that the 0 and 00 pockets are the house edge. Since neither is included in any group betting option, it is more or less guaranteed that either pocket will result in all bets losing. After all, who actively bets on 0 or 00?

The 00 pocket was added after Roulette travelled from Europe to the US in the 1800s. Adding the pocket was, very plainly, an attempt by casinos at the time to give the house an added edge. Thankfully these days players have the advantage of playing online.

Simple Mathematics

It’s all simple mathematics. The European version has 37 pockets, the American version 38 pockets. The bottom line is that the odds of the European version are better. To put it into clearer numbers it can be looked at like this; European Roulette has a house edge of 2.7%. American Roulette has a house edge of 5.26%. It may not seem like much, but when it comes to gambling the difference is night and day.

The European version also has an added betting rule called En Prison. Simply put, the rule means that the player gets a second chance if having bet on a 1:1 option. So if a player bets on red and the 0 lands, the bet remains in place for the next round. Yet another way in which this version is kinder to the player.

The Good News

The good news is that most online casinos are more than happy to offer European Roulette. Sites like Lucky Creek will let a player choose whatever version they prefer. The same applies when it comes to live dealer casinos. Most live dealer broadcasts use the European version, given that some players will refuse to play with American odds.Hence, before betting a player need only make sure that the rules are European, thereby ensuring the best possible odds.

But it isn’t all just about choosing the best odds. Many online casino are now adding fun new tweaks and betting options. The same basic Roulette rules still apply, but with a few added twists that keep things interesting. Adventurous players can look around, see what fun new versions are available, and travel into uncharted Roulette territory. Such freedom of choice is what makes online casinos as fun and interesting as they are.

Good luck and happy spinning.