Roulette, the iconic wheel of fortune, comes in various flavors, each with its own set of rules and allure. As you step into the captivating realm of roulette whether it is in a bricks and mortar casino, or in an online establishment, understanding the distinctions between American, European, and French variations is crucial for an enriched gaming adventure. Join us as we dissect the intricacies of each, from rules that shape the game to the unique features defining their respective tables.

But first is first. Look at the table to see what kind of roulette is being played. You can choose between an American table or a European table. There isn’t a French roulette table. Just a French version of the game. French Roulette, whether played online or at a real casino, is mostly played on European-style tables. Similarly, there is no special "European Roulette" either. Only the table is mentioned by name.

American vs European vs French Roulette Rules and Tables

In the American roulette arena, anticipation is heightened with the presence of the double-zero (00). Delve into the rules that set American roulette apart, explore the impact of the double-zero on the house edge, and discover strategies tailored to navigate this dynamic and thrilling version. 

If the ball falls on a zero when playing American roulette, you lose your bets. It doesn't matter if you bet on red, black, or a particular combination of numbers. Your wagers are now lost. The probability of landing on a single digit is around 5.3% due to the presence of two zeros, besides the single zero. This percentage, also called "house edge" , represents the casino winning all bets. 

For European and American roulette tables, there are 37 and 38 numbered pockets, respectively. These pockets feature numbers from 0 to 37 and alternate between red and black. You may bet on a specific number when you place a wager. The payoff is biggest here, but the odds of winning are lowest. The odds of winning a straight bet are just 1/37. However, you can receive a payout of up to 30-35 times your initial wager if you do win. Some American roulette tables offer some free spins or some extra bonuses in case you win a straight bet. 

European Roulette: Where Elegance Meets Simplicity

This percentage is double contrast to the standard European Roulette table. Since there is only one zero on European tables the “house edge” is about 2.7% which makes the European Roulette table more attractive to players.

European roulette exudes a timeless elegance, characterized by a single-zero (0) pocket that distinguishes it from its American counterpart. Uncover the rules governing European roulette, embrace its lower house edge, and explore the finesse of this classic version that has stood the test of time.

French Roulette: The Pinnacle of Sophistication

Even more than the European roulette, players love to play the French variation of the game, since the French Roulette reduces even further the home edge. There are two more regulations in the French version: La Partage and En Prison. 

The French word "La Partage" means "to divide". When the ball falls to zero, the bets are halved. Just for even bets (high–low, even–odd, red–black). Players lose half of their money and the casino takes the rest. This implies that the house advantage is actually decreased to 1.35% even less.

En Prison means "to the prison" in French. This is a variation of the “La Partage” rule. If you are playing on a table where the “En Prison” rule applies, it means that in case the ball falls into the zero pocket, your wager is "placed in prison". It is not possible to add, modify, or remove your wager. It’s all up to the next spin. If you win on the subsequent spin, you will get your whole investment back. And you will lose everything if you lose that next spin. Note that only in the French Roulette you will find those two rules. When you land on a zero in American Roulette, all of your money is instantly lost.

Step into the sophisticated world of French roulette, a refined iteration with unique rules that elevate the game. From the la partage and en prison rules to the distinctive table layout, immerse yourself in the nuances that make French roulette a pinnacle of sophistication, strategy, and favorable odds.

Table Comparisons: Dimensions, Layouts, and Betting Options

Let’s explore visually the roulette tables, comparing the dimensions, layouts, and betting options that distinguish American, European, and French roulette. From the arrangement of numbers to the placement of special bets, understand how each table layout contributes to the overall gaming experience.

Now, let's take a closer look at the physical and visual distinctions between the tables of American, European, and French roulette.

American Roulette Table:

The American roulette table stands out with its 38 pockets, featuring numbers 1 through 36, a  single zero (0), and the distinctive double zero (00). This addition of the double zero significantly impacts the house edge, creating a dynamic layout that beckons risk-takers. The betting options are diverse, offering a range of inside and outside bets, as well as the opportunity to wager on the double zero.

One more difference between American and European Roulette is the “Five Number Bet”. If you play the game in the United States, you can make the Five Number Bet, which is basically a bet that covers five numbers: zero, double zero, 1, 2, and 3.

In the end, the bet pays out 6:1, which may look like a good deal for the player. Unfortunately, this is not the best way to play American Roulette, since it’s actually a “sucker bet”. It becomes clear very quickly after doing a little research that this is the worst wager to make, since the house edge for this bet is 7.9%. This means that the player has very little chance of winning.

European Roulette Table:

The European roulette table exudes simplicity with its 37 pockets, including numbers 1 through 36 and a single zero (0). The absence of the double zero reduces the house edge, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a more favorable odds landscape. The table layout maintains an elegant symmetry, providing a straightforward canvas for inside and outside bets.

French Roulette Table:

Enter the realm of sophistication with the French roulette table, which mirrors the European version with its single zero (0). What sets it apart is the inclusion of the la partage and en prison rules, offering players added insurance against losses. The table layout showcases a refined design, and the betting options include unique call bets not commonly found in the American or European versions.

We already said that the European roulette table is not the same as the French roulette table. Standard table sizes are 3.3m x 1.8m, and there are two croupiers (dealers) sitting at the wheel with a 60cm croupier's rake in their hands. Along the short side of the table are the croupiers. Behind the wheel, on a raised chair, is the table-umpire.

The players can move to any of the three sides of the table that are still empty. Keep in mind that tables can look different from this. The table for the game can be very long; in fact, it's usually twice as long as this. This one has the wheel in the middle and two playing tables on either side. The French version is different from the European version in another way: the game moves more slowly in French roulette, which is again generally good for the player. When games last longer, players lose less money per hour because they play fewer games in the same amount of time.

The numbers grid is laid out horizontally across the table in the French form of roulette, which is another difference between the two types of roulette. Outside bets are put on both sides. High, Even, and Black are at the top, and Low, Odd, and Red are at the bottom. There are Dozen Bets on both the top and bottom right sides of the grid.

Conclusion: Navigating the Roulette 

As we conclude our exploration of American, European, and French roulette, you'll emerge armed with a comprehensive understanding of the rules and tables that shape each variant. Whether you seek the thrill of the double-zero, the elegance of a single-zero wheel, or the sophistication of French rules, the roulette tapestry awaits your strategic touch. May your bets be bold, your spins be fortunate, and your roulette journey be nothing short of extraordinary.