How does one go about playing European roulette? Don’t worry if you are a beginner to European roulette; this tutorial from Bovada will teach you everything you need to know, from the very basic rules to the table layout, bet kinds, the numbers covered, and the level of returns you will receive for hitting on any of the numbers covered. Let’s get started!
What is European Roulette?
European roulette, originating from Blaise Pascal in 1655, predates the American version. It gained popularity in Monte Carlo during the 19th century. Although the layouts differed initially, they are now standardized worldwide.
European roulette consists of 37 numbers, ranging from 0 to 36, while the American version has 38 numbers, including a double zero (00). In the European version, a croupier spins a wheel with 37 pockets, each numbered from 0 to 36. In contrast, the American roulette wheel is similar but has an additional pocket, the double zero.
When comparing the two versions, it is crucial to understand the significance of the double zero in American roulette. The European version has an average house edge of 2.3%, while the American version has a higher house edge of 5.26%. This means that the European version offers a higher return to player rate, averaging 97.3%, compared to the American version’s 94.74%.
In both European and American roulette, players place bets on which pocket the ball will land in. Each number carries odds of 35/1, and successful bets result in the return of the stake. However, the presence of the extra double zero pockets in American roulette decreases the chances of winning, hence the higher house edge and lower return to player rate.
Detailed Description of the European Roulette
European Roulette is known for its elegant and sophisticated gameplay, offering players an exciting and thrilling experience as they try their luck at predicting the outcome of a spinning roulette wheel. In this detailed description, we will explore the key elements and rules of European Roulette, including the wheel layout, betting options, and overall gameplay mechanics.
European Roulette Wheel
In European roulette, the wheel differs from American roulette with 37 pockets: one green zero pocket and 36 numbered pockets. The sequence of numbers on European wheels is different, and the numbers face the inner part of the wheel. The pockets include 18 red and 18 black, alternating in order. Odd and even numbers are paired, and the numbers are also categorized as “low” (1-18) and “high” (19-36).
The arrangement follows a pattern, with nine black and nine red numbers on the right side of the zero pockets (2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, and 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, 30, 32, 34, 36). On the left side, the arrangement is the opposite, with nine high black numbers and nine low red numbers (20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 29, 31, 33, 35, and 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 18). The wheel always spins counterclockwise, while the ball spins in the opposite direction.
European Roulette Layout
The layout of the roulette table is where bets are placed. It is covered in green cloth and is similar to American and European roulette, except European roulette has only one zero-betting box. The design is separated into two different portions. The inner section is for inside bets, representing the 37 numbers on the wheel in separate betting boxes. The outside section is for outside bets and includes areas for Odd/Even, Red/Black, High/Low, Dozen, and Column bets.
Betting Options
European roulette is popular among players because of its diverse betting possibilities, which are classified into two categories: outside and inner bets. Outside bets, which are suggested for inexperienced players, have higher odds but lower payouts. Red/Black bets (1 to 1), Odd/Even bets (1 to 1), High/Low bets (1 to 1), Column bets (2 to 1), and Dozen bets (2 to 1) are examples.
Inside bets are riskier, but they pay out more. Straight Up bets (35 to 1) cover a single digit, Split bets (17 to 1) cover two adjacent digits, Street bets (11 to 1) cover three digits, Corner bets (8 to 1) cover four digits, and Six-Line bets (5 to 1) cover two adjacent rows.
To win, players must learn the various betting options and their associated prizes. A player who bets £1 on a Six-Line bet covering numbers 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 will win £6 if the ball lands on any of these numbers.
Game Rules and Gameplay
European Roulette online simplifies the betting process: players place chips on their desired bets and click “Spin.” They can opt for another bet with the “Rebet” button or end the game with “Clear Bets.”
In land-based casinos, four personnel manage the game. Two croupiers handle bets and spin the ball, while the other two ensure smooth operations. The roulette table can accommodate one to eight players. The game begins when the croupier says “Place your bets.” Players make their bets, and the croupier calls “No more bets” before the ball stops.
Additional bets are typically ignored at this point. The croupier announces the winning number when the ball lands in a pocket. The house collects losing bets and pays out winnings to players.
Advantages of European Roulette
Many players favor the European version of roulette because of the superior odds. European roulette contains only one zero pocket, as opposed to American roulette, which has a bigger house edge of 5.26% due to the double-zero pocket. This reduces the built-in house advantage to 2.70%. In some circumstances, the La Partage rule is in force, which means that if zero comes up, half of the even-money bets are returned, lowering the house edge to 1.35%. This rule, however, is largely present in French roulette and is rarely encountered in European roulette.
En Prison is another rule that decreases the house edge by allowing players to lose just half of their stake if the ball lands in the zero pocket. It’s important to note that both of these criteria only apply to even-money bets. Surprisingly, when these guidelines are followed, roulette and baccarat have the lowest house advantage when compared to other casino games.
However, regardless of the differing rewards for different sorts of bets, the house advantage in roulette stays the same.
Online European Roulette
Naturally, once the internet and casinos went on the net, roulette developed its online version, and you can currently play the game and begin betting on a number of web pages around the world. Of course, there is one minor issue with this, and that is that not every casino is secure enough to do so.
Some are outright scams, while others, while real, may have flaws that affect your experience or even lead to you losing money owing to poor security. The most obvious solution is also the best, which is why we propose it: merely stick to top-quality, authorized gambling establishments that are completely regulated and exceed regulatory organizations’ security standards, such as Bovada Online Casino.
Understanding the Bets in European Roulette
Inside and outside bets are the two primary types of bets available to European roulette players. Inside bets cover a single number, nearby numbers, or small groups of numbers, but outer bets cover bigger groupings of numbers.
The majority of bets have various odds of winning and, as a result, different payouts. With the exception of the column bet’s payment, these payouts and odds of winning are normally not displayed on the board. As a result, before beginning the game, players should familiarize themselves with the payouts and odds for each stake.
Let’s take a look at inside and outside bets in European roulette.
Inside Bets
There are 5 types of inside bets in European roulette:
Straight-Up Bet
It is put on any particular number, including “0,” and on the number itself. It has a 35 to 1 payout.
Split Bet
It consists of two adjacent numbers that are placed on the line between them. The bet can additionally include 0 and 1, 0 and 2, 0 and 3, and 0 and 4. It has a 17 to 1 payout.
Street Bet
A street bet consists of any three numbers in a row and is set on the line at the end of each row. There are other possibilities for its placement as well: 0, 1, 2; 0, 2, 3. It has an 11 to 1 payoff.
Corner Bet
It consists of a set of four numbers that are placed at the corner where these 4 numbers intersect. The wager may also be put on the intersections of 0, 1, 2, and 3. It has an 8 to 1 payoff.
Line Bet
It consists of 6 numbers (or two rows of 3 numbers) and is put on the border between 2 rows. It has a 5 to 1 payoff.
Outside bets
There are also 5 different kinds of outside bets in European roulette:
Red/Black
It consists of all of the black or all of the red digits on the layout and is put in either the “Red” or “Black” box (all red digits). It has a 1 to 1 payout.
Odd/Even
On the layout, it includes all odd numbers or just even ones and gambles on the “Odd” box (all odd numbers) or the “Even” box (all even numbers). It has a 1 to 1 payout.
Low/High
This bet consists of all high numbers or all low ones and is put on the “High” box (numbers 1 to 18) or the “Low” box (numbers 19 to 36). It has a 1 to 1 payout.
Dozens
It consists of a collection of 12 numbers that can be placed on the “1st 12” box (1–12), the “2nd 12” box (13–24), or the “3rd 12” box (25–36). It has a 2 to 1 payout.
Columns
It consists of a full column and it’s set at the very end of a column on the “2-1” box. It has a 2 to 1 payout.
Strategies and Tips for European Roulette
European roulette is a popular version of the game, played both online and offline. While the house always has the advantage, there are ways to improve your chances of winning. Here are some tips to enhance your experience and increase your probability of success:
- Stick to even money bets: These bets, such as Red/Black, Odd/Even, and High/Low, pay out the same amount you initially wager. They have low volatility and provide frequent wins, although the presence of zero reduces the 50/50 chance of winning.
- Accept the disadvantage: Understand that the casino always has an edge in European roulette. It’s important to acknowledge that losing is inevitable and part of the game. This knowledge makes the experience more manageable.
- Don’t overcommit to the Martingale system: While popular among seasoned players, the Martingale system involves increasing bets after a loss to recover losses and register a profit. However, it’s essential to set clear profit targets and keep sessions short to avoid a bad losing streak and falling into the gambler’s fallacy.
- Switch to better versions of roulette: European roulette offers better odds compared to American roulette, thanks to its single zero. Explore additional online varieties, such as zero-edge roulette or French roulette, which give even better chances. American roulette should be avoided because of its double zero slots and bigger house edge.
- Practice and study: Before betting real money, become acquainted with European roulette regulations and gameplay. Experience will assist you in developing a winning strategy and making smarter betting judgments.
- Take advantage of online casino bonuses: Use sign-up bonuses and promotions provided by trustworthy online casinos. These bonuses provide additional monies for playing European roulette and can assist in lowering the house edge.
You can improve your European roulette experience and maybe raise your odds of winning by using these tips and methods. Remember to play responsibly and have fun.
Differences Between European Roulette and Other Variations
There are many different variations of Roulette that can be found at the Casino. While sharing similarities with other versions, European Roulette has distinct features that set it apart from its counterparts. This description will explore the differences between European Roulette and other variations, highlighting the unique aspects of gameplay, wheel layout, and the odds associated with this particular version. Understanding these differences will enable players to make decisions with more confidence while playing.
Wheel Layout and Number of Pockets
The wheel layout and amount of pockets separate European Roulette from other forms of the game. In contrast to American Roulette, which has 38 pockets including a single and double zero, European Roulette has only 37 pockets numbered 0 to 36. In European Roulette, the one zero pocket is green, while the other pockets alternate between red and black.
The variance in pocket numbers has a direct impact on the chances and results of each game. Players have a better chance of winning with European Roulette’s single zero pocket and a reduced house edge of roughly 2.7%. The double zero pocket in American Roulette, on the other hand, raises the house edge to around 5.26%.
The configuration of the wheel affects not just the odds but also the gameplay methods. Because European Roulette has fewer pockets, betting alternatives are more predictable and controlled, allowing players to utilize precise techniques and betting systems. Furthermore, distinctive wagers dependent on proximity to the zero pockets, such as “Voisins du Zéro” and “Tiers du Cylindre,” are exclusively accessible in European Roulette.
House Edge and Odds
When it comes to casino games, understanding odds and the house edge is crucial for informed decision-making and maximizing chances of winning. In this section, we’ll explore the differences in house edge and odds between European Roulette and other popular variations.
European Roulette, the classic version of the game, sets the standard for comparing odds. It has 37 pockets numbered from 0 to 36, with a single zero (0) pocket, resulting in a house edge of 2.70%. The presence of only one zero pockets is a significant factor in favorable odds.
In contrast, American Roulette includes a double-zero (00) pocket in addition to the single zero (0) pocket, increasing the house edge to 5.26%. The extra double-zero pocket gives the casino an advantage and makes it less favorable for players.
French Roulette is similar to European Roulette in wheel layout but offers additional rules that decrease the house edge. The “La Partage” rule states that when the ball lands on the single zero (0) pocket, players with even-money bets only lose half of their wager, lowering the house edge to 1.35% on even-money bets. The “En Prison” rule allows players to reclaim half of their wager or leave it “in prison” for the next spin, matching the 1.35% house edge when their bet wins on the subsequent spin.
Apart from the different rules and odds, European Roulette distinguishes itself with its elegant and refined ambiance. The game’s distinct wheel and table layout, slower pace, and focus on tradition appeal to players seeking a sophisticated casino experience.
European Roulette is widely available in brick-and-mortar and online casinos worldwide and has a strong following. American Roulette is more prevalent in US casinos, while French Roulette can be found in European and select international casinos.
La Partage and En Prison Rules
European roulette is renowned for its elegance, thrilling gameplay, and favorable odds. What sets it apart from other variations are the unique rules called “La Partage” and “En Prison.” These rules have a significant impact on gameplay, the player’s experience, and their chances of winning.
La Partage and En Prison are traditional rules associated with European roulette, each with distinct features.
La Partage comes into play when the ball lands on the single zero pocket. In European roulette, the wheel has 37 pockets numbered from 0 to 36. With La Partage, players who bet on even-money outcomes (such as red/black, odd/even, or high/low) receive half their wager back if the ball lands on zero. This reduces the house edge and enhances the appeal of European roulette for players who prefer these types of bets.
In contrast, En Prison applies when the ball lands on zero. Instead of losing the bet immediately, players with even-money bets can “imprison” their bet for the next spin. The bet remains on the table, and if the subsequent spin results in a win, the player gets their original bet back. This rule offers players a second chance and further lowers the house edge.
La Partage and En Prison significantly impact the odds and house edge in European roulette. La Partage reduces the house edge on even-money bets from 2.70% to 1.35%. Similarly, En Prison lowers the house edge to just 1.35%. These rules make European roulette highly favorable for players compared to variations like American roulette, which has both a single and double zero pocket.
Furthermore, these rules introduce additional strategic elements to the gameplay. Familiarity with La Partage and En Prison enables players to make informed decisions about their betting strategies, considering the potential benefits.
However, it’s important to note that not all European roulette games apply these rules universally. Some casinos may offer games without these rules, so it’s advisable to check the specific rules before betting.
Call Bets and Neighbor Bets
Call bets and neighbor bets are notable aspects of European roulette, distinguishing it from other variations. These bets provide additional options and excitement for players. Call bets, also called announced bets, allow players to bet on groups of numbers based on their position on the wheel. Instead of placing chips on the table, these bets are verbally announced to the dealer. One popular call bet is Voisins du Zéro, covering numbers close to zero. It includes 22 to 25, covering nearly half of the wheel. Tiers du Cylindre is another call bet, encompassing numbers 27 to 33, about one-third of the wheel.
In contrast, neighbor bets are placed on a single number and its adjacent numbers on the wheel. These bets cluster numbers physically close to each other. These bets group numbers that are physically close to each other. A neighbor bet on 5 might include 10, 23, 24, and 16. Call and neighbor bets enhance the excitement and strategy of European roulette. They give players more betting alternatives, letting them capitalize on specific patterns or parts of the wheel. Experienced gamers frequently prefer these bets, employing various tactics to improve their odds of winning.
Call bets and neighbor bets are not typically found in other roulette types such as American or French roulette. These variants often offer a more limited range of betting options, focusing exclusively on traditional inside and outside bets.
Presentation and Atmosphere
Through its presentation and atmosphere, Roulette provides a compelling experience. Let’s look at how these elements alter amongst game types.
European Roulette: European roulette emanates an air of elegance and sophistication. The wheel has 37 compartments that are numbered from 0 to 36 and alternate between red and black. The clear and visually pleasing interface helps players to easily focus on the game. The wheel itself, which is frequently made of high-quality materials such as wood, features elaborate decorations and a smooth spinning motion, contributing to its polished appearance.
American Roulette: The atmosphere of American Roulette, on the other hand, is distinct. Although the wheel layout is the same, adding a double zero pocket changes the presentation and ambiance of the game. American roulette wheels are frequently found in vivid and vibrant casino environments, producing a vibrant and dynamic ambiance.
French Roulette: French Roulette, which is similar to European Roulette, adds an artistic flair to the game. While the wheel arrangement remains the same, the French version has a distinct table layout and betting possibilities. The exquisite table design raises the ambiance and gives a sense of refinement, as does the usage of French terminology throughout gameplay.
Live Dealer Roulette: Live dealer roulette has grown in prominence in the age of online gaming. By transmitting a live video feed of a genuine dealer spinning the wheel, it seeks to simulate the feel of a land-based casino. The presentation and ambiance of live dealer roulette aim to mimic the feel of playing in a physical casino, whether it’s European, American, or French roulette. Players may experience the excitement and social side of roulette from the comfort of their own homes thanks to high-definition video quality and interactive features.
Availability and Popularity
European Roulette is immensely popular worldwide, both in brick-and-mortar casinos across Europe and in online gaming platforms, such as Bovada Online. Its widespread appeal stems from its simplicity, attracting both seasoned players and beginners who can quickly understand the game mechanics.
The game’s popularity is largely due to its balanced house edge and favorable odds. With 37 pockets numbered from 0 to 36, European Roulette has a house edge of approximately 2.7%, significantly lower than the 5.26% found in American Roulette, which has an extra double zero pocket. The improved odds make European Roulette a preferred choice for those seeking better chances of winning.
Special rules like La Partage and En Prison enhance the game even further. La Partage allows players who bet on even-money options to receive half of their wager back if the ball lands on zero. En Prison lets players reclaim their original bet without extra winnings if the subsequent spin results in a win. These rules decrease the house’s edge and make European Roulette even more enticing.
European Roulette offers various betting options, including call bets and neighbor bets. Call bets enable players to wager on specific sections of the wheel, adding excitement and strategy. Neighbor bets involve betting on a particular number and its neighboring numbers, providing alternative options.
The game’s presentation and atmosphere add to its allure, often associated with elegance and sophistication. The sound of the spinning ball, the anticipation as it slows down, and the thrill of it landing on the winning number create an immersive casino experience that captivates players.
Conclusion
The timeless casino game of European Roulette and its online version on Bovada continues to enthrall players all over the world. It is a favorite of both novice and experienced gamblers due to its exquisite simplicity and possibility for large payouts. The history of European Roulette can be traced back several centuries, as we discussed in this blog post, and players continue to enjoy it in record numbers.
European Roulette delivers an immersive and thrilling experience that is certain to keep you on the tip of your seat, whether you’re trying your luck at a physical casino or taking advantage of the convenience of online gambling. Why don’t you try it out and see where the wheel takes you? May fortune be with you, and good luck!
