Why You Should Never Play American Roulette

Roulette is one of the most iconic and visually thrilling games available on any casino floor.


The variation you decide to play has a massive impact on your mathematical chances of walking away a winner.

The Extra Number That Changes Everything

The European roulette wheel features 37 slots in total: numbers 1 through 36, plus a single green zero.


Conversely, the American layout adds an extra green slot—the double zero—significantly altering the math of the game.

The single zero is the only reason the casino makes a profit on Red/Black or Odd/Even wagersAdding a second zero effectively doubles the speed at which you will statistically lose your bankrollThe visual layout of the numbers on the wheel itself is also completely different between the two versions
Advanced European Roulette Rules

Certain high-end European tables utilize the 'La Partage' rule, which further reduces the house advantage.


Under the 'La Partage' rule, if you make an even-money bet (like Red or Black) and the ball lands on zero, you only lose half your bet.

Wheel StylePlayer RecommendationReasoningDouble ZeroAvoid completelyThe math is terrible for the playerSingle ZeroPlay this version exclusivelyOffers a fair and reasonable chance to win

There is absolutely no strategic reason to ever play the double-zero variation if a single-zero table is available.