1 Mar 2024
American Roulette is bold, fast-paced, and one of the most recognisable games on the casino floor, both in online casinos and offline. If you’re used to European or French Roulette, you may notice some key differences in this version; most notably the extra green pocket: the double zero (00).
But does that extra number change the odds? How do the bets work? And what should you keep in mind before you start spinning?
In this guide, we’ll be going through various points about what you need to know about American Roulette; from the layout and betting options to its house edge, and other information about the game.
- What Is American Roulette?
- The American Roulette Table Layout: Bets and Payouts
- American Roulette: How to Play
- Should You Choose American Roulette?
- Responsible Play Tips for American Roulette
What Is American Roulette?
American Roulette is a casino classic, offering straightforward gameplay based around a spinning wheel, a small white or silver ball, and a betting layout filled with numbers, colours, and groupings.
The key feature that sets American Roulette apart from its European and French cousins is its 38-pocket wheel. This is due to the inclusion of both the 0 and 00. The wheel contains:
- Numbers 1 to 36
- A single zero (0)
- A double zero (00)
This subtle change actually has a big impact on your odds and the game’s house edge, which is explained in the next section.
The American Roulette Table Layout: Bets and Payouts
American Roulette features a familiar roulette layout with numbered sections and betting zones. However, the addition of the 00 pocket slightly alters the table design and betting options.
Here are the game’s bet types and payouts:
|
Bet Type |
Probability |
Payout |
House Edge |
|
Red/Black |
1:1 |
47.37% |
5.26% |
|
Odd/Even |
1:1 |
47.37% |
5.26% |
|
High/Low |
1:1 |
47.37% |
5.26% |
|
Dozens |
2:1 |
31.58% |
5.26% |
|
Straight Up |
35:1 |
2.63% |
5.26% |
|
Split Bet |
17:1 |
5.26% |
5.26% |
|
Street Bet |
11:1 |
7.89% |
5.26% |
|
Corner Bet |
8:1 |
10.53% |
5.26% |
|
First Five Numbers, or Top Line Bet (0, 00, 1, 2, 3) |
6:1 |
13.16% |
7.89% |
|
Six Line |
5:1 |
15.79% |
5.26% |
The probability numbers in this table are based on maths. Any outcome in roulette is based on luck and chance, and no wins are guaranteed no matter what is shown on the table. Always play responsibly and within your means.
The house edge for all bets in American Roulette is 5.26%, except for the First Five Number combination, which comes with a house edge of 7.89%. This is due to the addition of the double zero, which is not present in European or French Roulette.
While payouts are the same, your odds are slightly lower in American Roulette.
American Roulette: How to Play
American Roulette, like European and French, comes with straightforward gameplay. However, make sure to check the rules of the specific game you are playing, as there may be some variations added to the game.
- Choose a number or set of numbers you want to bet on.
- Decide the amount to be wagered. Only wager what you can afford to lose.
- Place your bet on the number or set of numbers of your choice, using the layout.
- Wait for the live dealer, or computer, to spin the wheel and reveal the winning number.
- You may receive a payout if your chosen number wins.
Should You Choose American Roulette?
If you’re a UK player, you may be more likely to come across European or French Roulette, especially at UKGC-licensed casinos. That’s because those versions tend to offer a slightly lower house edge, and special rules (like La Partage and En Prison).
So why pick American Roulette?
- You may enjoy the faster pace or variety.
- Some players enjoy the added challenge that American Roulette brings.
- It’s a suitable option for those who want a different roulette experience compared to other variants.
- Many land-based casinos feature it as a default, especially in US-themed casinos.
Just remember: while it’s perfectly fair and tested for randomness, the double zero increases the game’s volatility. So, it is wise to manage your bankroll carefully.
Responsible Play Tips for American Roulette
Playing online should be enjoyable, and safe. Here are a few ways to keep things enjoyable and balanced:
- Set deposit and session limits before you start.
- Use cool-off periods or self-exclusion tools, if needed.
- Avoid chasing losses or increasing stakes during losing streaks.
- Stick to a budget and treat gambling as entertainment, not as a source of income.
- Seek support if gambling becomes overwhelming.
UKGC-licensed casinos are legally required to offer these support tools and encourage safer play.
American Roulette Has Its Place: Know What to Expect
American Roulette may come with a steeper house edge, but it’s still a game that comes with variety, and an interesting spin on a casino classic. If you’re aware of the odds, understand the rules, and play responsibly, it may be just as enjoyable as any other roulette variant.
So, if you fancy giving the double-zero wheel a spin, you may play at Genting Casino. Just remember to play smart, stay informed, and always choose licensed platforms that put your safety first.
Remember: The house will always have an edge. Never try to recover losses by gambling more. Any outcome is based on luck and chance. Only wager what you can afford to lose. Always play responsibly and within your means.
