Roulette is one of the most popular casino games around the world, as punters from all corners of the planet look to spin the wheel to try and achieve a win.
Whilst there have been a number of films to have helped dramatize the game, it is one in which there is still plenty of drama with each spin that is made as the odds of achieving a particular outcome vary on the bet that is placed, with some being significantly longer than others.
Indeed, there are a number of different variations that can be played, whether that be at a physical brick-and-mortar establishment or when playing online roulette with a virtual casino, but it is important to realise that each game will provide players with a number of different house odds that they need to be aware of. These odds can have a significant impact on the game, which is why it is vital to understand just what is on offer and learn about them before playing the variation of choice.
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular variations of roulette that are available and dissect the house odds that are typically available below.
French Roulette
French Roulette is played on a wheel that is considered to be European. The main feature of this wheel is that it contains 37 different pockets in which the ball can land; numbers 1-36 and a single zero.
To find out the first house odds of this wheel, players will simply need to divide the single-zero pocket by the 37 total pockets available, which will give them a figure of 2.70%. This is then considered to be the house’s edge, which is relatively low compared to many of the other roulette variations that can be played.
The main difference between this game and European Roulette – which will be discussed below – is that the game also features a special rule known as “la partage”. This rule, which has a 1.35% house edge, will see half of an even-money wager be paid to a player if the ball lands on the single-zero, although an even-money bet does need to be placed first. An example of this would be to place a £10 bet on even (even/odd) and once the ball lands on zero, £5 will be awarded back to the player.
American Roulette
American Roulette is another variant of the popular casino game that can be found in many different casinos all around the world, with the game having been made popular by various different forms of entertainment.
However, it should be noted that whilst its popularity may be through the roof, the house edge is also rather high compared to many of the other options that can be found. This is because there are a total of 38 different pockets available, with a single-zero being joined with a double-zero in this game, as well as the traditional 1-36 numbers.
So, to work out the house odds of this table game, simply divide the two zero pockets alongside the total 38 numbers available on the wheel and players will find that the edge is 5.26%. Compared to the French Roulette variant, the edge is double the amount, thus potentially favouring the casino more than the bettor.
European Roulette
European Roulette is pretty common as it is widely available to play at physical and virtual casinos and is very similar to the French Roulette game.
A total of 37 pockets exist on the wheel as numbers 1-36 are then followed with a single-zero, thus providing the same 2.70% house edge that is available. However, the biggest difference with this game is that the special “la partage” rule is not available. A benefit, though, is that any wager placed will provide them with the 2.70% edge.
