If you've explored the world of roulette or tested your luck at the game a few times, you're likely familiar with its variations. Today, we delve into European Roulette, examining its unique features, differences from other variants, and strategies for success.
What is European Roulette?
European Roulette is one of the two main variations of roulette. It differs from its American counterpart because its wheel layout features only one zero (0) pocket instead of two. This subtle yet significant difference results in superior odds for the European roulette.
Some European Roulette games also feature special rules that can give the player a big advantage:
La Partage: In the event the ball lands on zero (0) and you've placed an even-money bet (like red/black or odd/even), you receive back half of your wager.
En Prison: When zero (0) comes up, even money bets remain "en prison" (in prison) for the next spin. If you win on the subsequent spin, you get your full wager back; otherwise, it's forfeited.
How to Play European Roulette
Playing European Roulette is easy but exciting. You start the game by selecting your bets and placing chips on designated areas of the roulette table. These areas encompass inside bets (specific numbers or groups) and outside bets (broader sections). Once bets are placed, and both players and the croupier are ready, the croupier initiates the game by spinning the European Roulette wheel while releasing a ball in the opposite direction. As the wheel loses momentum, the ball eventually settles into one of the numbered pockets, determining the game's outcome. The croupier announces the winning number and color, and payouts are calculated accordingly. This sequence repeats for each round, providing an exciting gaming experience with every wheel spin.
European Roulette offers a wide array of betting options categorized into two primary groups: inside bets and outside bets.
Inside bets involve wagering on specific numbers or groups within the number grid on the roulette table. While they offer the potential for higher payouts, their odds are lower due to fewer possible outcomes. Inside bets include:
- Straight Bet: Betting on a single number. (pays 35 to 1)
- Split Bet: Betting on two adjacent numbers. (pays 17 to 1)
- Street Bet: Betting on a row of three numbers. (pays 11 to 1)
- Corner Bet: Betting on a block of four numbers. (pays 8 to 1)
- Six-line or Avenue Bet: Betting on two rows of three numbers (pays 5 to 1)
Outside bets encompass broader categories, such as colors, odd/even numbers, or groups of numbers. They offer better odds but provide lower payouts. Outside bets consist of:
- Red or Black: Betting on all red or all black numbers. (pays 1 to 1)
- Odd or Even: Betting on all odd or all even numbers. (pays 1 to 1)
- High or Low: Betting on high numbers (19-36) or low numbers (1-18). (pays 1 to 1)
- Dozen Bet: Betting on one of three sets of 12 numbers (1-12, 13-24, 25-36). (pays 2 to 1)
- Column Bet: Betting on one of three vertical columns of numbers. (pays 2 to 1)
Additionally, some European Roulette variations introduce neighbor bets, allowing you to wager on specific sections of the wheel:
- Voisins du Zero: This covers the 17 numbers closest to zero on the wheel: 22, 18, 29, 7, 28, 12, 35, 3, 26, 0, 32, 15, 19, 4, 21, 2, and 25.
- Tiers du Cylindre: Encompassing the 12 numbers opposite the zero: 27, 13, 36, 11, 30, 8, 23, 10, 5, 24, 16, and 33.
- Orphelins: Covering the 8 numbers not included in Voisins or Tiers: 17, 34, 6, 1, 20, 14, 31, and 9.
These bets add complexity and excitement to the game, offering more diverse wagering options with varying payouts.
How to Win European Roulette
Understanding house edge is crucial to winning in European Roulette. House edge represents the casino's advantage over time. European Roulette, featuring a single zero (0), boasts a lower house edge of around 2.70%, offering better odds than American Roulette, which has an additional double zero (00).
Many players employ betting systems to gain an edge. While no system guarantees consistent wins, structured approaches to betting may increase your odds of winning over the long term. Here are two popular betting systems for roulette.
The Labouchere System: Also known as the cancellation system, it involves creating a sequence of numbers. You start by betting the sum of the first and last numbers in the sequence. If you win, these numbers are crossed off the list. If you lose, you add the amount of your loss to the end of the sequence. The goal is to cross off all numbers, which results in a profit.
The Reverse Martingale System: This strategy involves doubling your bet after each win instead of after each loss. The idea is to ride winning streaks and maximize profits when you're on a roll. However, setting profit goals and being prepared to walk away when you reach them is crucial, as a single loss can wipe out your accumulated winnings.
Bankroll management is vital. Spreading your bankroll over numerous bets minimizes the risk of rapid depletion. Allocate each bet to represent no more than 1-2% of your total funds to participate in multiple rounds, adapt to luck fluctuations, and avoid chasing losses while maintaining a disciplined and enjoyable gaming session.
American vs European Roulette: Recap
Layout: European Roulette has one zero (0) pocket on its wheel. American Roulette features both zero (0) and double zero (00) pockets.
Odds: European Roulette offers better odds with a lower house edge (approximately 2.70%). American Roulette has a higher house edge due to the extra double zero (00), making it less favorable for players.
Bets: European Roulette may include special bets like Voisins du Zero, Tiers du Cylindre, and Orphelins for more diverse wagering options. American Roulette offers the unique Basket bet, covering the two zeros and the first row of numbers.
Rules: Special rules like La Partage and En Prison can provide advantages to European Roulette players, such as returning half of the bet in case of a zero (0) outcome. American Roulette usually lacks these special rules.
Accessibility: American Roulette is more commonly found in North American casinos, making it more accessible for players in this region. North American casinos may also offer lower betting limits for American Roulette compared to European Roulette, making it suitable for a wider range of players.
More
If you're looking for a detailed guide covering how to play roulette, the difference between american and european roulette, go read how to play live roulette.
Responsible gaming advisory:
Please note that the strategies and recommendations offered in our blog articles do not guarantee success or winnings. Gambling is inherently risky and should be undertaken with player discretion. MrWest holds no responsibility for any losses incurred by players while using these strategies and tips.
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- Gambling Therapy: https://www.gamblingtherapy.org/
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Resources:
- Bǎrboianu, C. (2008). Roulette odds and profits: The Mathematics of Complex Bets. Infrarom.
- Casino-org. (2022). The differences between European & American Roulette | Roulette Strategy | Casino Org [YouTube Video]. In YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7g_Ea10CEy4