Roulette Variations

Welcome to Roulette Variations , where we break down the most popular roulette game types you’ll find at online casinos so you can choose the right version before you play. From classic European and French wheels to American and modern twists, understanding the differences helps you pick games with the best rules, odds, and excitement for your money.
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Aria Williams
Published by:Aria Williams
Last update:06.02.2026

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Explore the Best Roulette Variations

These variations generally fall into three categories: traditional wheel-based games that differ in pocket configuration and rules, delivery method variations that change how you experience the game, and innovative gameplay variations that introduce unique mechanics. Whether you prioritize the best odds, an authentic atmosphere, or exciting twists on the classic formula, there's a roulette variation tailored to your needs.

European Roulette

European Roulette represents the gold standard of roulette gaming and serves as the foundation for most other variations. The wheel features 37 pockets numbered 0 through 36, with the single zero pocket colored green and the remaining numbers alternating between red and black. This configuration delivers a house edge of 2.7%, making it significantly more favorable than its American counterpart. The game follows straightforward rules with standard betting options, including inside bets (straight-up, split, street, corner) and outside bets (red/black, odd/even, dozens, columns). A straight-up bet pays 3, while even-money bets pay 1

French Roulette

French Roulette shares the same 37-pocket wheel configuration as European Roulette but distinguishes itself through player-friendly special rules that significantly reduce the house advantage. The game features two unique rules: La Partage and En Prison. Under La Partage, when the ball lands on zero, players receive half their stake back on even-money bets. The En Prison rule offers an alternative where even-money bets are "imprisoned" for the next spin when zero hits, giving players a chance to recover their full stake. These rules reduce the house edge to just 1.35% on even-money bets, making French Roulette the most favorable variation for players seeking optimal odds.

American Roulette

American Roulette introduces a significant variation with its 38-pocket wheel, featuring both a single zero (0) and a double zero (00). This additional pocket increases the house edge to 5.26%, nearly double that of European Roulette. The number sequence on the American wheel also differs from its European counterpart, with the 00 positioned opposite the 0. While standard bets maintain similar payouts (35for straight-up, 1for even-money bets, the extra pocket reduces your winning probability on every bet. American Roulette also offers a unique five-number bet covering 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3, which carries an even worse house edge of 7.89%. Despite its less favorable odds, American Roulette remains popular in the United States and offers a distinctive gaming experience for players seeking the traditional American casino atmosphere.

Mini Roulette

Mini Roulette dramatically simplifies the classic game with a compact wheel featuring just 13 pockets numbered 0 through 12. This streamlined version offers faster gameplay and typically lower minimum betting limits, making it ideal for beginners or casual players with smaller bankrolls. The reduced number of pockets necessitates modified payouts to maintain game balance—straight-up bets typically pay 11instead of the standard 35. The house edge varies depending on specific rule implementations, with some versions returning half the stake when zero hits on even-money bets. Mini Roulette's simplified betting grid makes it less intimidating for newcomers while maintaining the essential excitement of roulette. The accelerated pace allows more spins per session, though the altered payout structure means strategic approaches differ significantly from traditional roulette variations.

Live Roulette

Live Roulette revolutionizes online gaming by streaming real dealers in real-time from professional studios or actual land-based casinos directly to your device. High-definition cameras capture every spin from multiple angles, while professional croupiers conduct the game exactly as they would in a physical casino. Interactive features include live chat functionality, allowing you to communicate with dealers and fellow players. The game follows standard European or French rules, maintaining the same odds and payouts.

RNG Roulette

RNG (Random Number Generator) Roulette utilizes sophisticated computer algorithms to determine outcomes, eliminating the need for physical wheels or live dealers. This technology-driven approach offers several advantages: instant results without waiting for wheel spins, 24/7 availability unrestricted by dealer schedules, and typically lower minimum bets, making it accessible for all bankrolls. The game features animated graphics showing a virtual wheel and ball, with results generated by certified random number generators that ensure fairness and unpredictability. RNG Roulette allows for much faster gameplay, with some versions completing rounds in seconds rather than minutes. Players can also access detailed statistics and betting history more easily. While lacking the atmospheric appeal of live games, RNG Roulette excels in convenience, speed, and efficiency.

Double Ball Roulette

Double Ball Roulette introduces an exciting twist by launching two balls simultaneously onto a single wheel, creating unique betting opportunities and increased winning potential. The game uses a standard European-style wheel but features a compressed air system to release both balls at once. Players can place traditional single-ball bets that win if either ball lands on their number, or opt for special double-ball bets that require both balls to meet specific criteria. When both balls land on the same number, an extremely rare occurrence, payouts can reach 1,300

Speed Roulette

Speed Roulette accelerates the traditional game by reducing betting windows to just 25-30 seconds per round, compared to the standard 60+ seconds in regular live roulette. This variation follows standard European Roulette rules with a 37-pocket wheel and 2.7% house edge, maintaining identical odds and payouts. Speed Roulette appeals to players who find traditional roulette too slow or want to maximize their playing time. The rapid pace requires quick decision-making and works best for players with established betting strategies who don't need extended time to consider each wager.

Types of Roulette Variations Odds & Payouts

Different roulette variations offer distinctly different odds and payouts based primarily on wheel configuration and special rules. Here is an overview:

VariationNumber of PocketsHouse EdgeStraight-Up PayoutEven-Money PayoutSpecial Features
European Roulette37 (0-36)2.7%351Standard rules, single zero
French Roulette37 (0-36)1.35% (even-money bets)351La Partage/En Prison rules
American Roulette38 (0-36, 00)5.26%351Double zero, five-number bet (7.89% edge)
Mini Roulette13 (0-12)Varies (3.85%-7.69%)111Reduced payout structure
Live Roulette37 or 382.7% or 5.26%351Real dealers, follow European/American rules
RNG Roulette37 or 382.7% or 5.26%351Instant results, follows European/American rules
Double Ball Roulette37 (0-36)Varies by bet typeAdjusted payoutsAdjusted payoutsDouble ball bets up to 1,300
Speed Roulette37 (0-36)2.7%351Faster rounds, same odds as European

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FAQ's

What’s the difference between European, American, and French roulette?
European roulette uses a single zero wheel with a lower house edge, American roulette has both 0 and 00 which increases the house edge, and French roulette also uses a single zero but adds player-friendly rules like La Partage and En Prison.
How do special rules like La Partage and En Prison affect French roulette?
La Partage returns half your even-money bet when the ball lands on zero, while En Prison holds your bet for the next spin, reducing the house edge on those bets.
Is Mini Roulette a good choice for beginners?
Mini Roulette simplifies the game with fewer pockets (0–12) and often lower minimum bets, making it beginner-friendly, though payout structures and the house edge differ from standard variants.
What is Live Roulette and how is it different from RNG roulette?
Live Roulette streams a real dealer and wheel in real time for an immersive experience, while RNG roulette uses certified software to generate results instantly without a physical wheel.
How does Double Ball Roulette change the game?
Double Ball Roulette launches two balls at once on a single wheel, creating unique betting opportunities and special payouts if both balls meet specific criteria.
Does the choice of roulette variation affect odds and payouts?
Yes — roulette variations like American, European, and French differ in pocket count and rules, which changes house edge and odds for players.
What makes Speed Roulette different from standard roulette?
Speed Roulette follows standard European rules but shortens the betting window so rounds complete faster, appealing to players who want more spins in less time.
Can I play multiple roulette variations at the same online casino?
Most online casinos offer several roulette variants — including classic wheels, live dealer versions, and innovative twists — so you can pick the experience that suits you best.
Are payout ratios the same across all roulette variations?
Standard payout ratios (like 35:1 for straight bets and 1:1 for outside bets) remain consistent, but some variations adjust payout structures to match fewer pockets or special mechanics.
Which roulette variation has the lowest house edge?
French roulette typically offers the lowest house edge on even-money bets thanks to La Partage and En Prison rules, making it one of the most player-friendly variations.
Aria Williams
Aria Williams
writer
Aria Williams, New Zealand's prominent voice in online casino game localization, masterfully fuses the thrilling world of gaming with the rich Kiwi spirit. Their deft touch ensures every game not only entertains but resonates deeply with the locals.