Roulette is a classic casino game that has stood the test of time. Whether you’re playing in a land-based casino in Toronto or online at a trusted Canadian casino, understanding the different types of roulette is key to maximizing your gaming experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the differences between European, American, and French roulette, along with other exciting variants available for Canadian players.

The Roulette Wheel

The main action in roulette happens on the wheel. Standard versions of the game involve spinning the wheel and dropping a ball, which eventually lands in one of 37 or 38 pockets, depending on the version. The result determines whether you win your wager. While the design of roulette wheels hasn’t changed much over the decades, understanding how each variant’s wheel works is crucial for your strategy.

The Roulette Table

The roulette table is where bets are placed, and it comes in two types: inside bets and outside bets.

• Inside Bets: Allow players to place more specific wagers, such as straight-up or split bets, covering all 37/38 numbers.
• Outside Bets: Cover larger betting options like red/black, odd/even, or high/low.

Across all roulette variants, the table layout is mostly consistent, making it easier for Canadian players to switch between versions.

Popular Roulette Variants in Canada

Roulette comes in several variants, each offering unique gameplay, rules, and house edges. The three most common versions are European, American, and French roulette.

European Roulette

European roulette is the most widely played version in Canadian online casinos. Its wheel features 37 pockets: numbers 1–36 and a single green zero.

Table Layout: 18 red numbers, 18 black numbers, and a single green zero. Players can place inside and outside bets on a simple, clear grid.

Rules: Players place their bets, spin the wheel, and winnings are distributed based on the outcome. European roulette offers a house edge of 2.70%, making it more favorable than American roulette.

American Roulette

American roulette is popular but slightly less advantageous for players due to its double zero (00), bringing the total pockets to 38.

Table Layout: Similar to European roulette but includes a double zero column.

Rules: The betting and payouts follow standard roulette conventions, but the extra zero increases the house edge to 5.26%, making it less ideal for Canadian players who want better odds.

French Roulette

French roulette closely resembles European roulette but adds the La Partage rule, which significantly benefits players on even-money bets.

Table Layout: Same as European roulette with 36 numbers and a single zero.

Rules: If an even-money bet (red/black, odd/even) lands on zero, the player only loses half their wager, reducing the house edge to 1.35%.

Why It’s Best for Players: The combination of a low house edge and La Partage makes French roulette the optimal choice for Canadians aiming for longer play sessions and better winning potential.

Other Roulette Variants Available in Canada

Canadian online casinos also offer several alternative roulette games:

• Mini Roulette: Features a smaller wheel with 13 numbers. The odds and payouts are different, but the gameplay is faster.
• Multi-Wheel Roulette: Players can bet on multiple wheels at once, increasing excitement and potential winnings.
• Triple-Zero Roulette: Adds a third zero, increasing the house edge. Not widely preferred.
• 100/1 Roulette: A high-risk variant with 100 numbers and straight-up bets paying 100:1.
• Live Roulette: Streamed from a casino or studio with a real dealer, offering an authentic experience.
• Video Roulette: Digital simulation of European or American roulette, ideal for online play.

Choosing the Best Roulette Variant in Canada

For Canadian players seeking the best odds, French Roulette is the preferred choice due to:

• Low house edge (1.35% with La Partage)
• Strategic opportunities for even-money bets
• Similar gameplay to European roulette, making it easy to transition

European Roulette is also a solid choice, offering decent odds with a single zero. Meanwhile, American Roulette is generally less favorable because of the double zero and higher house edge.

Conclusion

Roulette remains one of the most iconic and exciting casino games for Canadian players, whether in online casinos or land-based venues. Understanding the differences between European, American, and French roulette can help you make informed betting decisions.

• American Roulette: Highest house edge (5.26%)
• European Roulette: Moderate house edge (2.70%)
• French Roulette: Lowest house edge (1.35%) and La Partage advantage

Exploring other variants like Mini Roulette, Multi-Wheel Roulette, or Live Roulette can add variety to your gaming experience. Ultimately, for strategy-focused players aiming to maximize their chances, French Roulette stands out as the top choice in Canada.