Roulette is one of the most popular table games, having been around for centuries. It’s popular at online gambling sites like https://rtbet.com/nz/, as numerous developers create different versions, so users can choose the most suitable one. Players must understand the differences between the most popular versions before choosing the game.
Each version has similarities and differences, most of which depend on the rules and odds. This article explores these distinctions.
American Roulette
It’s the version with 38 pockets on the wheel. It contains numbers from 1 to 36, a single zero, and a double zero.
These are the pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Includes the five-number bet that covers 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3. | Has a 5.26% house edge, which lowers the chances of winning. |
| Some gamblers prefer the pace and the design of this version. | The double zero decreases return rates on all standard bets. |
| Usually performs worse than the European and French versions. |
The double zero increases the house edge, so American roulette usually gives the worst chances of winning among the three versions.
European Roulette
It has 37 pockets: numbers from 1 to 36 and a single zero. That single zero reduces the house edge at online gambling sites, so the game offers more favorable odds.
These are the benefits and drawbacks, so you’d better understand the appeal:
| Pros | Cons |
| Has a 2.7% house edge. | Doesn’t have the five-number like American roulette. |
| Simple rules make it easier for beginners to follow. | Less distinctive than French roulette in terms of house rules. |
The design and rules are almost identical to the American version. Naturally, there’s no double zero, which makes the variant much more beneficial for players.
French Roulette
This version also has 37 pockets, just like the European one. However, it adds special rules that further lower the house edge. These rules only apply when the ball falls on zero, so they don’t affect other parts of the game.
Here’s a table that explains advantages and disadvantages:
| Pros | Cons |
| La Partage returns half of the bet on zero outcomes. | It might be difficult for beginners to figure out two additional rules. |
| En Prison gives a second chance after a zero result. | |
| House edge drops to 1.35%, the best rate among all versions. |
Most online gambling sites include this version to attract players. The La Partage or En Prison rule increases the fairness of the game for users, as the house edge actually lets them get back more money.
What Version to Choose at Online Casinos?
Gamblers who want better odds should select French roulette at online gambling sites, as it has the lowest house edge and special rules that protect even-money bets. European roulette is the second-best choice because of its single zero and standard design.
Players should only choose American roulette if they prefer the five-number bet or want a version with a double zero. Otherwise, the high house edge significantly reduces the chances of success.
