Although the exact origins of roulette are unclear, it is believed that the game dates back to 18th century England, where it eventually made its way to the famous Monte Carlo casino. Translated in the original French as little wheel, the game has long held a place as one of the world’s most widely-played and recognizable online casino games.
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American roulette was originally quite different compared to European roulette, featuring only 28 number slots, called pockets, compared to the European versions’ 37 slots. As of 1886, American roulette featured its characteristic zero and double zero pocket, earning it the nickname of double zero roulette. Additionally, the early form had an eagle pocket, meant to symbolize American liberty, which was included to give the house an extra edge. Eventually, the eagle pocket disappeared and the total number of pockets increased to 38. The game has maintained the zero and double zero pockets, which are its main distinction compared to European roulette. Both remain widely-played online casino games in their own right, as American roulette is also popular in the Caribbean and South America.
American Roulette Rules
Players begin a round of American roulette by betting on conditions or sets of conditions, such as that the ball will come to rest in a red or black pocket. After the betting stage ends, the croupier spins the roulette wheel. Each possible bet corresponds to one or more pockets on the wheel, each of which has an equal chance of being selected. Whichever pocket the roulette ball lands in is the winning number, with all corresponding bets being paid out immediately. Once all winnings have been paid and lost bets taken in, another round begins.
While both European and American roulette include the zero pocket, the double zero pocket is exclusive to the American version. Both pockets are unique in that they are not considered odd, even, red or black. As such, betting on either zero or double zero alone is unlikely to pay out. However, if such a bet is made when the wheel lands on the corresponding pocket, the payout is 35 to 1, the highest paying bet in the game.
Players can also bet both 0 and 00 for a lower payout of 17 to 1, but a greater chance of success. They can also bet on the top line, which includes 0, 00, 1, 2 and 3, which pays out at 6 to 1. It is these differing payout rates and house edges that makes roulette such a dynamic experience, earning it a place as one of the most commonly played online casino games.
Choosing Online American Roulette Games
In general, roulette rules are fairly standard, with little difference between online casinos. This means that your primary concern should be finding an online gambling site that offers the American version of the game. While the European form is closely related, the difference can be confusing for some players. Those looking for American roulette should search for online casinos that cater to players in the United States or South America.
When searching for any roulette games online, individuals should avoid playing at sites which are not transparent in their policies or do not seem secure. Any prospective sites should always be thoroughly investigated before American roulette or any other casino games are played there.
Tips for Playing American Roulette
While the zero and double zero are the defining characteristics of American roulette, they are generally considered long shots. This does not mean that players must necessarily avoid them, but they should not expect these bets to payout very often. Betting systems are nearly always ineffective for American roulette. Even if they are successful in the short term, players using them are unlikely to have consistent success. The best strategy for playing American roulette is simply to play for brief periods of time, stopping after large wins.
