VeryWell European vs American Roulette: A Practical Guide
Choosing the right roulette variant is one of the most crucial decisions a player can make, directly impacting their odds and overall experience. For players at VeryWell casino, understanding the fundamental differences between European and American Roulette is key to making an informed choice. This guide breaks down the rules, odds, and strategies for both, providing concrete information to help you play smarter.
1. The Core Difference: The Wheel Layout
The most significant and visually obvious difference lies in the wheel itself. A European roulette wheel features 37 pockets: numbers 1 through 36, alternating in red and black, and a single green zero (0). The American version, however, has 38 pockets. It includes the numbers 1-36, but adds two green pockets: a single zero (0) and a double zero (00). This single additional pocket is the primary reason for the difference in the house edge between the two games.
2. House Edge and RTP: Why It Matters
The house edge is the casino’s statistical advantage over the player, while RTP (Return to Player) is the percentage of all wagered money a game will pay back to players over time. They are directly linked. European Roulette, with its single zero, offers a much more favorable house edge of 2.70% (RTP of 97.30%). American Roulette, with its extra double zero, has a house edge of 5.26% (RTP of 94.74%). This means that, statistically, you will lose money nearly twice as fast playing the American version. For a practical example, a £100 bet on an even-money outside bet (like red/black) would have an expected loss of £2.70 in European and £5.26 in American Roulette.
| Roulette Variant | Number of Zeros | House Edge | RTP (Return to Player) |
|---|---|---|---|
| European | 1 (0) | 2.70% | 97.30% |
| American | 2 (0 & 00) | 5.26% | 94.74% |
3. The “En Prison” and “La Partage” Rules
Some European Roulette games offer additional player-friendly rules that can further reduce the house edge on even-money bets (e.g., Red/Black, Odd/Even). If the ball lands on zero, these rules come into effect:
- La Partage: You lose only half of your even-money bet.
- En Prison: Your bet is “imprisoned” for another spin. If your bet wins on the next spin, your original stake is returned without profit.
These rules effectively cut the house edge on even-money bets in half, to approximately 1.35%. These rules are almost exclusively found in European Roulette and are a major reason savvy players prefer it.
4. Which Version Should You Play at VeryWell?
The choice is clear for players focused on maximizing their chances. European Roulette is objectively the better game due to its lower house edge. It is the default choice for most experienced players. You might choose American Roulette for its faster pace or if you enjoy the specific betting options like the five-number bet (0, 00, 1, 2, 3), though this bet carries a house edge of 7.89% and is generally advised against. Always check the game lobby at verywell to confirm which variant you are about to play.
5. Using Your VeryWell Bonus on Roulette
When playing roulette with a VeryWell bonus, always check the terms and conditions. Most bonuses have wagering requirements, meaning you must bet the bonus amount a certain number of times before withdrawing winnings. It’s crucial to know that different bet types often contribute different amounts to these requirements. Due to their lower risk for the casino, even-money bets (like red/black) often contribute 100%, while riskier single-number bets may contribute only 10% or sometimes nothing at all. A VeryWell no deposit offer or a VeryWell free spins promo is a great way to try their roulette games risk-free, but always read the fine print first. If you have a VeryWell promo code, enter it precisely as provided during the deposit process.
Conclusion: Smart Play at VeryWell
Understanding the difference between European and American Roulette is fundamental to intelligent gameplay. By consistently choosing the European variant with its single zero and superior 97.3% RTP, you are making a decision that statistically preserves your bankroll for longer. Combine this knowledge with a clear understanding of your VeryWell bonus terms, and you’ll be well-equipped for a more rewarding and strategic roulette experience.