What Makes European and French Roulette Different?: A Complete Guide

Roulette is a classic and iconic casino game that has captured the interest of gamblers for centuries. When you think about casinos, roulette is likely to be the first game that pops into your head.

The game features a spinning wheel with numbered pockets and a small ball that is dropped onto the wheel. Players place bets on where they think the ball will land, with options ranging from specific numbers to colours (red/black) and odd or even numbers.

Over the years, many variations of roulette have been introduced, the most popular of which are European, American, and French Roulette. In this guide, we’ll be studying the differences between two of these variants: European and French Roulette. To the casual observer, these games might appear to be identical, but these versions have key differences that make a difference in the long run. Knowing these distinctions can affect how you approach the game of roulette.

French vs European Roulette: What Sets them Apart?

French and European Roulette can look identical in their setup, so you might be wondering whether there are any differences between the two versions. They do differ from each other in certain aspects, some of which are discussed below:

La Partage Rule

French roulette introduces the "La Partage" rule, an advantageous feature that impacts even-money bets. With this rule, players can recover half their wager if the ball lands on zero. This feature significantly lowers the house edge to 1.35%, making French roulette a better option for those who are seeking to tilt the odds more in their favour, although there are never any guarantees.

En Prison Rule

Complementing the "La Partage" rule, French roulette introduces the "En Prison" rule. Translated as "in jail," this rule safeguards players' even-money bets when the ball lands on zero.

Rather than losing the bet immediately, players have the opportunity to place their wager "in jail" and receive another spin using the same wager. If the player wins their bet during the next spin, they will receive their original wager back, essentially meaning they break even. Alternatively, players will lose their wager if they lose their bet again, including if the ball lands on zero. Essentially, the ball is in prison, and depending on how the next spin goes, it is either returned to you or you lose the wager.

Table Design and Language

The French roulette table introduces a visual distinction featuring red boxes corresponding to wheel pockets and using French-language labels for numbers and words. On the other hand, European roulette opts for a more standardised design with English terms, creating a familiar setting for players. However, this setup is likely to vary depending on where you play.

Table Dimensions and Setup

The French roulette table boasts specific dimensions, usually measuring 3.3m x 1.8m. It involves two croupiers at the wheel, while a table umpire sits behind the wheel on a heightened chair, adding to the distinctive setup. In contrast, European roulette tables follow a more standardised design, with dimensions that may vary but lack the unique features of the French version.

Numbers Grid Position

A notable distinction can be seen in the positioning of the numbers grid on the european roulette table. In French roulette, the grid is arranged horizontally, with High, Even, and Black on top and Low, Odd, and Red at the bottom. European roulette, however, adheres to a more traditional layout, maintaining a standard arrangement of the numbers grid.

European and French Roulette Bet Types

The main difference between these two versions of roulette can be found in the additional rules that affect the outcome of even-money bets in French roulette. The payouts, however, are identical. Considering there is only one zero in these two versions of roulette, the ball could land on 37 numbers in total.

The following table outlines the different payouts based on the bet placed.

European Roulette Basics: Fundamental Rules and Unique Features

Here are the fundamental rules that govern European Roulette:

• European Roulette employs a wheel featuring 37 pockets numbered from 0 to 36. The numbers are non-consecutively coloured in red or black, with the exception of the 0, which is typically green.
• The betting layout comprises various areas representing different bet types. Players can place bets on individual numbers, groups of numbers, or specific characteristics such as red or black, odd or even, and high or low numbers.
• A croupier, or dealer, manages the game. They are responsible for spinning the wheel in one direction and the small ball in the opposite direction. Once the ball loses momentum, it settles into one of the numbered pockets, determining the winning number.
• The payouts in European Roulette vary based on the type of bet placed. The more specific the bet, the higher the potential payout. For example, a Straight Bet on a single number offers a higher payout than an Outside Bet on red or black.
• The absence of the double-zero pocket (featured in American roulette) contributes to a lower house edge of 2.70%, enhancing the player's odds.

Understanding the Difference Between French and European Odds

When examining the odds of European and French Roulette, it is apparent that both variants offer better player advantages compared to their American counterpart, mainly because of the absence of the 00 pocket. With a total of 37 pockets, the odds of the ball landing on a single number in European and French Roulette are 1 in 37.

The critical difference between the two is the fact that French Roulette incorporates additional rules that significantly reduce the house edge when they come into play. When it comes to betting, the options are pretty similar in both versions; players can bet on specific numbers, groups of numbers, or the pocket colour they think the ball will ultimately land in.

Mastering the Roulette Wheel - Strategies and Tips

Although chance plays a pivotal role in roulette, employing effective strategies could impact your long-term results. Here are some roulette strategies that can help you get better odds and increase your gaming potential:

Martingale Strategy

The Martingale strategy is the most popular and simplest roulette betting strategy. It focuses on even-money bets such as red/black, odd/even, or high/low. When using this betting system, you must start by deciding upon an initial wager (preferably the table minimum) and keep betting the same amount until you lose. After that, you double the size of your bet in hopes of recovering your lost money and making a profit. Reset the bet to the initial amount after a win, and repeat. However, this strategy requires a sizeable bankroll, and once you reach the table maximum bet, this strategy is over.

D'Alembert Strategy

Like the Martingale strategy, the D'Alembert strategy exclusively applies to even-money bets and is tailored to players with a considerable bankroll. Under this betting system, you must adjust your bet size by one unit every time you win or lose. For example, if you start with an initial bet of five units and win, the next bet decreases to four units, while a loss prompts an increase to six units.

Fibonacci Strategy

The Fibonacci Strategy in roulette derives its principles from the renowned Fibonacci sequence, a series of numbers where each new digit is the sum of the two preceding ones. Applied to roulette betting, this strategy typically uses the first ten numbers of the sequence: 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, and 55.

Employed exclusively in even-money bets, the strategy involves setting an initial bet size and progressing through the sequence after each loss. For example, if a player starts with a $1 bet and loses, the next wager increases to $2, then $3, and so on, following the Fibonacci sequence. Upon each win, the player regresses two steps back in the sequence.

Expert Tips to Boost Your Odds

Here are some tips that apply to both French and European Roulette to help you make informed decisions:

Manage Your Bankroll

Practise effective bankroll management when playing European and French roulette. Set realistic budgets, avoid chasing losses, and allocate funds strategically.

Use Free/Demo Versions

Take advantage of free roulette games to hone your skills and strategies. These demo versions allow you to familiarise yourself with the rules and features of European and French roulette, which can be a useful step before deciding to bet with real money.

Explore Unique Call Bets

French roulette introduces special call bets, such as Voisins du Zéro, Tiers du Cylindre, and Orphelins. Familiarise yourself with these unique bet types to diversify your strategy and potentially enhance your winnings. You can test out every roulette strategy using the demo version.

Experiment with Neighbours Bets

French roulette allows for neighbours bets, where you can place bets on a specific number and its neighbouring numbers on the wheel. Experimenting with these bets adds variety to gameplay and opens up new strategic possibilities. Nothing in roulette is guaranteed, but your playing session will likely be extended if you adopt a more conservative approach.

Misconceptions Associated with French and European Roulette

Over the years, various misconceptions related to French and European Roulette have taken root and influenced how players perceive and approach these variations. Here is a look at some of these myths so you can gain clarity and insight into the realities of French and European Roulette.

Observing Previous Results Can Help Make Predictions

It's a common belief that if a particular number or colour has appeared frequently in recent spins, it's less likely to show up in the next one. However, each spin is independent, and past results have no impact on future probabilities. It can be tempting to observe patterns, but they hold no significance in a game of chance like roulette.

Roulette is All About Strategy

One widespread misconception about roulette is that it's a game purely based on strategy. Many people believe that adopting the right technique can lead to success. However, roulette is fundamentally a game of luck that uses a Random Number Generator (RNG) system. Predicting the winning number accurately is impossible, and any strategy that claims to do otherwise is unreliable.

All Versions of Roulette Are the Same

Some people mistakenly think that there is only one version of roulette. In reality, roulette has evolved since its 17th-century origins. French, European, and American roulette are just a few variations. New forms like Lightning Roulette have emerged with online casinos, each with unique tables, layouts, and house edges.

All Roulette Versions Have the Same House Edge

Contrary to popular belief, different roulette versions come with varied house edges. For example, European roulette, with 37 numbered pockets, has a lower house edge than American roulette, which has 38 due to the additional double zero.

Roulette Has Lucky Numbers

The belief that specific numbers are luckier than others is a common misconception. Every number on the roulette table has an equal probability of winning. Hot and cold numbers are not indicative of future outcomes and are more rooted in perception than statistical reality.

The Roulette Wheel Is Rigged

Some people believe that roulette wheels can be rigged, and this myth is often fueled by depictions in movies. However, reputable casinos, both online and offline, adhere to strict regulations. Rigging a roulette wheel would jeopardise a casino's gaming licence, making such practices highly unlikely. Therefore, players are encouraged to choose licensed and regulated gambling venues for a fair and secure gaming experience.

FAQ

Here are some FAQs related to European and French Roulette that are often on the minds of casino players:

Is French roulette the same as European roulette?

No, they're not the same. While they do share similarities, such as a single zero on the wheel, French roulette has the "La Partage" rule, where you get half your even-money bet back if the ball lands on zero. European roulette doesn't use this rule.

Is European roulette the best roulette?

Choosing the best roulette variant depends on personal preference. However, European Roulette is often considered favourable because it carries a lower house edge.

Which roulette system is the best?

No roulette system guarantees wins. Systems such as the Martingale or Fibonacci offer strategies, but success ultimately depends on luck.

What is the difference between English and European roulette?

These terms are often used interchangeably. If referring to European Roulette, you're likely considering the wheel with a single zero. English Roulette can be synonymous with European Roulette, depending on regional preferences.

Where can I play French roulette online?

You can play French Roulette at several online casinos, one of which is LeoVegas. However, make sure that the online casino that you choose is licensed and trustworthy.

Where can I Play European roulette online?

As a popular variant, European Roulette is available on various online platforms. Reputable online casinos such as LeoVegas host several European Roulette tables.

Learn more about various roulette strategies in our guides:

• 150 Roulette Strategy
• James Bond Roulette Strategy
• European vs American Roulette
• French Roulette Guide
• European Roulette Guide
• American Roulette Guide