American Roulette

American Roulette is a classic casino table game where players bet on where a small ball will land on a spinning wheel. The key difference from other roulette versions is simple but decisive: the wheel has two green pockets — a single zero (0) and a double zero (00). That extra green pocket changes the math, the payouts, and how players think about risk on the table.

A quick history that explains the split

Roulette began in Europe in the 18th century, combining elements from earlier games and mechanical wheels. When the game crossed the Atlantic to the United States in the 19th century, American casinos adapted the wheel by adding the double zero. That change aimed to increase the house advantage, and it has defined the American variant ever since.

Wheel layout — what’s under the ball

American Roulette wheels have 38 pockets total:

• Numbers 1–36
• Single zero — 0
• Double zero — 00

Numbers 1–36 alternate red and black, while the 0 and 00 pockets are both green. That alternating color pattern helps players visually track groups of numbers, but the two green pockets are what affect payouts and odds the most.

Table layout — where you place your chips

The American Roulette table pairs a graphical betting grid with dedicated areas for outside bets. The grid lists numbers 1–36 in 12 rows and three columns, with separate boxes for 0 and 00 at the top. Players place chips directly on single numbers for inside bets, or on lines, corners, and the outside sections for larger-group bets. Dealers accept bets until they call “no more bets,” then spin the wheel.

How to play American Roulette — simple steps

1. Choose your chip value.
2. Place one or more bets on the betting grid or outside sections.
3. The dealer spins the wheel and releases the ball.
4. The ball settles in a numbered pocket.
5. Winning bets are paid according to the payout table, and losing chips are collected.

Payouts and house edge are applied automatically; always check the table limits and terms and conditions before betting.

Inside bets — higher payouts for smaller targets

Inside bets are placed on specific numbers or tight groups of numbers on the betting grid:

• Straight up — a single number
• Split — two adjacent numbers
• Street — a row of three numbers
• Corner — four numbers in a square
• Six line — two adjacent rows (six numbers)

Inside bets offer bigger payouts because they cover fewer numbers.

Outside bets — lower variance, steadier play

Outside bets cover larger groups and pay closer to even money:

• Red or black
• Odd or even
• High (19–36) or low (1–18)
• Dozens — first, second, or third dozen
• Columns — one of the three vertical columns

Outside bets give a higher chance of landing, and they’re a common choice for players managing risk.

Typical American Roulette payout table

• Straight up: 1 number covered, 35: 1 payout
• Split: 2 numbers covered, 17: 1 payout
• Street: 3 numbers covered, 11: 1 payout
• Corner: 4 numbers covered, 8: 1 payout
• Six line: 6 numbers covered, 5: 1 payout
• Dozens / Columns: 12 numbers covered, 2: 1 payout
• Red/Black, Odd/Even, High/Low: 18 numbers covered, 1: 1 payout

These payouts reflect standard casino rules. Always confirm specific paytables and wagering conditions at the table or online lobby.

Why the house edge is higher — and what it means

American Roulette’s house edge is 5.26%, driven by the addition of the double zero. That edge comes from the fact that bets covering half the numbers still lose when the ball lands on 0 or 00. By comparison, European Roulette uses a single zero and has a lower house edge of about 2.7%. Higher house edge means larger long-term disadvantage for players, so bet sizing and strategy matter.

Practical strategy tips for beginners

• Learn the odds before you bet, and know how each wager covers numbers.
• Favor outside bets for lower variance, and use inside bets sparingly for bigger potential payouts.
• Set a bankroll, stick to session limits, and walk away once they’re reached.
• Avoid betting systems that claim guaranteed wins — roulette is a game of chance, and no system can overcome the house edge.
• Check table limits and the casino’s terms and conditions before play.

American Roulette versus European Roulette — quick comparison

• Number of pockets — American has 38, European has 37.
• House edge — American around 5.26%, European about 2.7%.
• Popularity — American Roulette is more common in United States casinos, while European Roulette dominates many casino floors overseas. Those differences influence odds, strategy, and player preference.

Online American Roulette or live dealer — pick what fits your style

Online casinos offer two main ways to play:

• RNG (random number generator) roulette — automated, fast, and available 24/7.
• Live dealer roulette — streamed from studios, with real dealers, tables, and social interaction.

Live dealer games recreate the brick-and-mortar feel, while RNG versions are typically quicker and sometimes offer special side bets. Both are legally available at regulated online casinos; choose what suits your preference and device.

Top software providers for American Roulette

Major developers that offer solid American Roulette titles include Evolution, Playtech, Pragmatic Play Live, NetEnt, and Ezugi. These providers deliver polished graphics, reliable gameplay, and options across RNG and live formats, so look for their games when you want quality play on desktop and mobile.

Mobile American Roulette — play on the go

Modern American Roulette games are optimized for smartphones and tablets, with responsive layouts, touch controls, and full gameplay parity with desktop versions. Mobile play lets you place the same bets, manage your bankroll, and join live dealer tables from your device.

Responsible play — keep it enjoyable

Set deposit and loss limits, take regular breaks, and never chase losses. If gambling stops being fun, use the casino’s support tools or seek professional help. Responsible gambling benefits everyone.

Where to try American Roulette online

If you want a starting point, check reputable casino reviews like Game Spot Casino to find licensed sites, supported payment methods, and game libraries. Always verify licensing, terms and conditions, and payment processing times before depositing real money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Enjoy the game, know the math, and play responsibly. American Roulette gives clear, easy-to-understand betting choices, but remember that the double zero changes the odds — so plan your bets and bankroll with that in mind.