Roulette Variations
| Guide on the Most Popular Roulette Variations to Try out
It is a common concept that the game of roulette is as old as the wheel itself. In fact, there are different theories about the origin of the game itself, but it is not a secret that France is at the heart of everything. The wheel itself is invented by the French physicist and mathematician Pascal, but his aim was different. He wanted to invent a machine in perpetual motion instead of a casino game. His attempt failed, but something good came out of it – an amazing and thrilling casino game. In fact, two French brothers developed the idea of Pascal and turned the spinning device into the well-known wheel.
Unfortunately, gambling was illegal at that time in France, so the two brothers introduced the game in front of the German gambling community. In fact, the idea was more than welcomed and thus they opened a casino in Hamburg. That is how the game “conquered” all hearts in Europe. Later on, roulette was brought back to its initial home. The structure of the wheel remained mostly unchanged, with the slight difference that a zero-numbered pocket was introduced. At first sight, it may look like an inconspicuous change, but it definitely affects the whole game.
Roulette continued to travel around the world and its popularity never ceased to grow. The game made its way across the ocean and it was introduced in front of American society. The only problem was the low profit of the house. In an attempt to increase the overall profit, also known as house edge, a double zero pocket was added to the American wheel. Nowadays, they still keep that difference and that is why we can outline 3 main variations of the game – French, European, and American. Even though all of them are played by the same basic rules, there are certain differences that you should understand before you start to play roulette.
The current publication focuses on the most popular roulette variations to try out. Besides the three basic varieties of the game – French, European, and American roulette, we will present to players’ attention some much sought-after online roulette games. These include Roulette Royale, 3D Roulette, Multi Wheel Roulette, Double Ball Roulette, Mini Roulette, and Double Action Roulette, providing iGaming fans with unlimited options to diversify their gaming experience.
Playing Roulette in a French Style
French roulette is what you might call the “original” one. In fact, “roulette” means a “little wheel” in French. The wheel itself is just the same as in the European variation of the game. It consists of 37 pockets, which represent all the numbers from 0 to 36. They are arranged in such a way so that a high number (from 19 to 36) is positioned next to a low one (from 1 to 18). The pockets are colored alternately in black and red, except the zero-numbered pocket, which is in green.
What is more interesting is the arrangement of the table itself. In some casinos, you can see that the wheel on the French table is in the middle. Therefore, the betting layout is also positioned in a different way. The outside betting field is split into two and it is located along both sides of the table. Its unique betting field provides better access to the layout and the possibility for more people to join.
However, just because it is the original version does not mean it is the most popular. In fact, it is just the opposite. French roulette is immensely popular because it offers good odds and a relatively low house advantage. The presence of only one zero pocket decreases the house edge to 2.7%. What is more, there are certain rules that can even halve the edge to 1.35%. These include the En Prison and La Partage Rules.
En Prison Rule
The rule is in effect when players have placed an even-money outside bet and the ball lands on the zero pocket. Then, they have the right to keep the bet unchanged for the next spin. If the ball lands again on the zero pocket, then the bet is lost. Otherwise, the bet has chances to either win or lose in accordance with the usual rules of the game.
La Partage Rule
In a nutshell, if the ball lands on the zero pocket, players split the bet with the house. So, you can get back half of the stake and give the other half to the casino. Similar to the En Prison rule, this one is in effect only if you have placed an even-money outside bet.
French Roulette Odds and Payouts
| Bet Type | Player Odds | Payout |
|---|---|---|
| Straight (single number) | 2.7% | 35 to 1 |
| Split (two numbers) | 5.4% | 17 to 1 |
| Street (three numbers) | 8.1% | 11 to 1 |
| Corner (four numbers) | 10.8% | 8 to 1 |
| Column | 32.4% | 2 to 1 |
| Dozen | 32.4% | 2 to 1 |
| Red/Black | 48.6% | 1 to 1 |
| Even/Odd | 48.6% | 1 to 1 |
| Low/High | 48.6% | 1 to 1 |
The Extra Betting Options on the French Layout
As an additional benefit, the French table offers some very exciting betting options, which are placed on all the numbers from a particular section of the wheel. These are well-known as “call bets” or “announced bets”. The name is significant enough to understand that these bets are everything else, but usual ones. The player only needs to announce the preferred bet and the dealer places the chips. To be more accurate, there is a slight difference between “call bets” and “announced bets”.
“Call bets” are also referred to as bets on credit, because there are no chips, which cover the bet. That is why in most of the casinos these are prohibited. The only difference between the two types of bets is that with the “announced bets”, there are chips on the table. These bets can be placed till the croupier says “no more bets” and before the ball lands on a certain pocket of the wheel. There are various types of “call bets”, which offer different payouts and cover a big portion of the layout. Even though the names of the bets are in French, one can easily grasp the main idea behind them.
Playing Roulette on an European Table
The European and French tables overlap to a great extent, thus many people even do not find a difference between these two. In both variations, the wheel is constructed in the same way, offering only one single-zero pocket. Therefore, the house edge is also 2.7% on all bets. Even though the wordings on the French table are in French, this should not bother you, since the bets are the same. The only exception is that sometimes, the European tables do not offer the additional betting options and the advantageous rules (or at least most of them), which can be found in the French variation of the game.
It should be noted that in some casinos, the French “peculiarities” are also valid on the European table. Hence, before approaching the roulette table, make sure that you are familiar with the rules that are used at the particular table. The European variation of the game is the most popular and it is offered by every reputable online casino.
European Roulette Odds and Payouts
| Bet Type | Player Odds | Payout |
|---|---|---|
| Straight (single number) | 2.7% | 35 to 1 |
| Split (two numbers) | 5.4% | 17 to 1 |
| Street (three numbers) | 8.1% | 11 to 1 |
| Corner (four numbers) | 10.8% | 8 to 1 |
| Column | 32.4% | 2 to 1 |
| Dozen | 32.4% | 2 to 1 |
| Red/Black | 48.6% | 1 to 1 |
| Even/Odd | 48.6% | 1 to 1 |
| Low/High | 48.6% | 1 to 1 |
Playing Roulette on an American Table
American roulette is by far the second most commonly found roulette variation. It offers a better advantage for the house. The wheel consists of 38 numbered pockets, which represent all the numbers from 0 to 36 and one additional double-zero pocket. Namely the second zero-pocket is decisive for the higher house edge, which is 5.26%. Thus, the probability of winning is slightly lower compared to the European variation. For example, you place a straight-up bet on the number 17, you have only 1 chance to win as opposed to the 37 to lose. Whereas, the single-zero wheel offers better chances for the player to win. Let’s take again the example with the straight-up bet. On the French or European table, you have 1 chance to win as opposed to 36 chances to lose.
The numbers on the American wheel seem to be arranged in a more systematic way. Looking at the wheel, every player can easily spot that 2 consecutive numbers are positioned opposite to one other. The presence of the additional zero pocket on the American wheel leads to a slight difference between the European and American betting layout. The American layout is double-ended because it has an additional box, which represents the double-zero pocket. It should be mentioned that it is impossible to find an American table managed by the advantageous French rules. Luckily, players can benefit from the so-called “Surrender” rule, which is pretty much the same as the “La Partage” rule. In fact, it comes in effect when the ball lands on one of the two zero-numbered pockets. The house edge is reduced from 5.26% to 2.63% for all even-money outside bets.
The bets are the same as in the European variation of the game, with the only exception that the American table offers the so-called Five-Number bet. It boosts the house edge to 7.90%, thus players are recommended to avoid this bet, because the payout is only 6 to 1.
American Roulette Odds and Payouts
| Bet Type | Player Odds | Payout |
|---|---|---|
| Straight (single number) | 2.6% | 35 to 1 |
| Split (two numbers) | 5.3% | 17 to 1 |
| Street (three numbers) | 7.9% | 11 to 1 |
| Corner (four numbers) | 10.5% | 8 to 1 |
| Column | 31.6% | 2 to 1 |
| Dozen | 31.6% | 2 to 1 |
| Red/Black | 47.4% | 1 to 1 |
| Even/Odd | 47.4% | 1 to 1 |
| Low/High | 47.4% | 1 to 1 |
Advantages of Online Roulette
Interestingly enough, many players prefer to play in an online casino since they are not distracted by any noises. No matter which variation you choose, every table provides different minimum and maximum limits, which can fit every bankroll size.
Moreover, most online casinos offer statistics, reflecting the so-called “hot” and “cold” numbers. The concept behind these numbers is really logical. “Hot” numbers come up most frequently, while the “cold numbers” come up most rarely. It seems that many players value this information and apply it when placing a bet.
Since technologies are advancing day by day, it is a matter of fact that online casinos offer very entertaining variations of the game, which are everything else, but standard.
Roulette Royale
Screenshot of Roulette Royale
This variation of roulette is one of the most appealing to players, and it is plucked from the gaming suite of Microgaming. It is played by the same rules, which are governing the European single-zero pocket, but the exceptional part is that Roulette Royale offers a solid progressive jackpot, which is really tempting. In fact, all players are required to place side bets, which are added to the amount of the jackpot. Thus, the more players join, the higher the jackpot is. This jackpot can be won if the same number is hit 5 times in a row. The chances are not very high, but it is worth a try. If a particular number is hit two, three, or four times in a row, then the payout is less. What is important to point out is that if the same number comes up more than two times in a row, the jackpot prizes gambling enthusiasts will qualify for will be fixed and will be determined by the size of the side bet they have placed.
It is important to note that the payouts players will be offered when their bets are winning ones remain unchanged, and as usual, winning straight bets pay at the rate of 35:1.
3D Roulette
Screenshot of 3D Roulette
All players who highly value aestheticism should try the available 3D variations of the casino classic. The game itself is governed by the same rules as the European variation, but the graphic design provides a second-to-none experience. To make it even more authentic, the game offers audio that mimics the sounds in land-based casinos.
The standard single-zero wheel is positioned in the middle of the screen, and the layout is just above it. Of course, it also provides additional settings, so that every player can adjust the overall picture in accordance with their personal preferences. A great advantage of this variation of the game is that it provides information about the number of players who have won a certain bet.
Multi Wheel Roulette
Screenshot of Multi Wheel Roulette
Known as one of the most advantageous online variations of the game, the multi-wheel roulette is played on six different wheels, each of which features only one zero-numbered pocket. Players can cover all the wheels with a single bet. Of course, if you do not feel like playing on six wheels simultaneously, there is an option to deactivate some of them. Playtech is the provider, which is to be blamed for one of the multi-wheel roulette games in which up to six wheels will be available per game round.
There are also multi-wheel roulette variants presenting players with the opportunity to activate up to eight single-zero wheels. This is exactly the case with Microgaming’s Multi Wheel European Roulette Gold. Placing a bet is made a walk in the park, as gambling enthusiasts can benefit from the handy favorite bet feature, which allows them to save the bet types they prefer using. Not to mention that the game boasts a design, which makes the navigation a breeze. Another reason why players might be eager to give this roulette version a shot is that it is equipped with racetrack, meaning that they can place call bets.
Double Ball Roulette
Screenshot of Double Ball Roulette
This is also a unique variation of the game, which is played with 2 balls. It is offered in most online casinos, but one should keep in mind that it is played in real time. Therefore, you can find the game in the Live Dealer section.
Even though the winning numbers will be two, the outside bets are also possible here. For example, you place a bet on all the red numbers, hence the two balls should land on red pockets. The players, who would like to give it a try, have the option to choose between a single-zero or double-zero wheel.
Yet, the live lobby of the online casino you are playing at is not the only place to check when you want to experience the thrill of double-ball roulette. There are multiple software developers that have rolled out such variants of the casino classic, and one such is Felt Gaming. Their roulette variant offers greater win opportunities, which makes it worth taking a look at, and the jackpot of 1,200 to 1 it offers makes it all the more appealing for avid casino fans. Besides, roulette fans are given control over the shooting of the second ball, which will allow them to immerse themselves in the gameplay yet more.
Mini Roulette
Screenshot of Mini Roulette
This variation of the game follows the main basic rules of the standard roulette. The difference comes from the wheel, which contains 13 pockets for the all the numbers from 0 to 12. It should be noted that the zero pocket is in blue color. The presence of a limited number of pockets increases the chance for the ball to rest on the zero pocket. But there is a rule, which allows players to retain half of their bets under certain terms. The payouts are also affected due to the number of the pockets.
Such roulette variants might be more suitable for inexperienced players namely because they offer fewer betting options and lower bet limits. As we said already, the payouts are not the standard ones, and thus, winning straight bets will bring them a payout of 11:1, split bets will bring payouts of 5:1, while street bets will pay at the rate of 3:1. Corner and column bets pay at the rate of 2:1, while half dozen, red/black, and even/odd pay even money.
Double Action Roulette
Screenshot of Double Action Roulette
This variation of the game offers an authentic wheel, inspired by the design of Mark VII. It consists of an inner and outer ring, each representing its own set of numbers. The two rings are positioned opposite each other, so the winning numbers are two. This variation also offers different betting layout. It consists of two main sections, each presenting the different rings on the wheel. Outside bets are also possible here, but the preferred wager needs to come up on both rings.
What players should bear in mind about this roulette version is that the payouts are not the ones they will be presented with in standard roulette games, and the most subtle difference is that outside bets are not even money ones. Thus, when betting on black or red, for example, players will get a payout only if both balls have landed in red or black pockets.
Naturally, the biggest prize is given when the same number appears on both rings of the wheel, as in such cases, players will come by a payout of 1,200 to 1.
The available roulette variants are so diverse that they can match the individual preferences of every player. Obviously, most of the variations are played by the same rules, but every player should be familiar with the peculiarities of the chosen game before they dip their toes in it. To choose which variation is the best for you, do not put yourself limits, but give it a try.
FAQ
French Roulette stands out with its single-zero wheel and player-friendly rules, like En Prison and La Partage, reducing the house edge to as low as 1.35% on even-money bets. Its layout features a unique betting area, offering additional betting options and making it a top pick for those seeking more favorable odds.
American Roulette introduces an extra double-zero pocket, increasing the total roulette wheel sections to 38 and raising the house edge to 5.26%. This tweak definitely lowers your winning chances compared to single-zero versions, making American Roulette a thrilling choice for those who enjoy a higher risk and dynamic gameplay.
European Roulette is beloved for its single-zero wheel, which reduces the house edge to 2.7%, offering better odds than its American counterpart. Lacking the double-zero pocket, the European wheel provides a balanced blend of risk and return, making it a preferred choice for many due to its straightforward layout and familiar betting options.
Online casinos have revolutionized roulette with inventive variations like Multi Wheel Roulette, allowing bets on multiple wheels simultaneously, and Double Ball Roulette, using two balls for double the excitement. Mini Roulette, with fewer numbers, and progressive jackpot games like Roulette Royale, offer fresh challenges and unusual roulette rewards. Live dealer roulette variants with multipliers applied to straight bets are also fun variations you can find online.
French Roulette’s call bets, like Voisins du Zero and Tiers du Cylindre, cover specific wheel sections, offering strategic betting options. Meanwhile, the En Prison and La Partage rules significantly reduce the house edge on even-money bets, enhancing player odds and making French Roulette a go-to for strategic bettors seeking advantageous play conditions.
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