Roulette Variants Explained: Which One is Right for You?
Want better payouts? More spins? Higher risks? There’s are roulette variants for every type of player—you just need to pick the one that suits your style.
But here’s the thing—not all roulette games are the same. Each version has its own set of rules, and those differences can seriously impact your odds, strategy, and overall experience.
Whether you’re chasing the best RTP, looking for a faster-paced game, or want a fresh twist on the classic, we are here to explain everything you need to know about Roulette Variants available online.
Classic Roulette Variants: The Foundations of Roulette
Roulette might look simple, but the type of roulette you play has a big impact on your odds of winning roulette. The basic rules on how to play roulette stay the same—place your bets, watch the ball spin, and hope it lands in your favour—but the number of zeros on the wheel and special rules can make a real difference in how often you win and how much you take home.
Every roulette game is built on one of three classic versions, and while the betting table layout stays consistent, the odds don’t. Modern roulette variants add extra features, but the core mechanics always trace back to European, American, or French roulette. Here’s what you need to know before you place your next bet.
1. European Roulette – The Standard, Player-Friendly Choice
European roulette is the go-to version for most players, and it’s easy to see why—it has a lower house edge than American roulette, which means better chances of winning. The gameplay is straightforward: place your bets on numbers, colours, or sections of the wheel, and watch as the dealer spins the wheel one way and the ball the other.
The game uses a 37-digit wheel, with numbers 1-36 being split evenly between red and black, and a number zero at the top of the wheel.
- Wheel: 37 pockets (0-36)
- House edge: 2.70%
Why it’s the best all-round option:
If you want fair odds and a classic experience, European roulette is your best bet.
2. American Roulette – The High-Risk, High-Variance Version
American roulette follows the same basic gameplay as European roulette, but it features an additional double zero (00) pocket, which shifts the odds further in the house’s favour. The extra pocket might not seem like a big deal, but it nearly doubles the house edge, making it harder for players to win in the long run.
In the betting table, you will still find all of the same outside and inside betting options, only there is an additional zero, the double zero, at the top of the numbers columns.
- Wheel: 38 pockets (0, 00, 1-36)
- House edge: 5.26% (almost double European roulette)
Key differences:
- The extra ‘00’ pocket increases the house edge, making it less favourable for players.
- The layout and betting options remain the same, but your odds are worse.
- Best for players who enjoy a higher-risk, higher-reward experience.
3. French Roulette – The Most Player-Friendly Option
French roulette is often considered the most strategic and player-friendly version. It follows the same structure as European roulette but introduces special rules that reduce losses on even-money bets thanks to the the La Partage Rule. These rules make it particularly appealing to players who prefer a calculated approach rather than relying purely on luck.
- Wheel: 37 pockets (same as European roulette)
- House edge: 1.35% on even-money bets (thanks to special rules)
Special Rules in French Roulette: La Partage & En Prison
French roulette stands out because of two unique rules that can reduce the house edge and help you keep more of your bankroll:
1. La Partage – Get Half Your Bet Back
- Applies only to even-money bets (Red/Black, Odd/Even, High/Low).
- If the ball lands on zero (0), instead of losing your full bet, you get half of it back.
- Example: You bet $10 on Red, but the ball lands on 0. Instead of losing all $10, you get $5 back.
2. En Prison – A Second Chance for Your Bet
- Also applies to even-money bets only.
- If the ball lands on zero (0), instead of losing your bet, it gets "locked" (imprisoned) for the next spin.
- If your bet wins on the next spin, you get your money back. If it loses, you lose it all.
- Example: You bet $10 on Black, and the ball lands on 0. Your bet stays in play for the next spin. If Black wins on the next spin, you get your $10 back.
Quick Comparison - Classic Roulette Variants
| Variant | Pockets | House Edge | Special Rules | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| European | 37 (0-36) | 2.70% | None | Balanced odds |
| American | 38 (0, 00-36) | 5.26% | Double zero increases house edge | High-risk play |
| French | 37 (0-36) | 1.35% (on even bets) | La Partage, En Prison | Strategic low-risk play |
Modern Roulette Variants Based on European Roulette
European Roulette is the backbone of most modern adaptations, and for good reason—it keeps the house edge low while delivering the classic roulette experience. But if you're looking for more excitement, bigger multipliers, or a faster pace, modern roulette variants offer fresh mechanics that shake up the game without straying too far from the traditional rules.
Online roulette has taken these innovations even further, introducing live dealer action, side bets, and interactive elements at top-tier casinos. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular modern roulette variants and how they compare, so you can find the right fit for your style.
Lightning Roulette (Evolution Gaming)
- How It Works: Standard European roulette, but before each spin, 1 to 5 numbers are randomly hit with multipliers (ranging from 50x to 500x).
- Key Rule Change: Straight-up bet payouts drop from 35:1 to 29:1 to fund the multipliers.
- House Edge: 2.90% (slightly higher than standard European roulette due to the reduced payout).
- Best for: Players who love high-payout potential and suspense.
Verdict
Lightning Roulette cranks up the excitement with electrifying multipliers reaching up to 500x. But keep in mind—the reduced payout on straight-up bets means strategic players will need to adjust their approach.
Quantum Roulette (Playtech)
- How It Works: Similar to Lightning Roulette, but instead of random multipliers, the game uses Quantum multipliers (up to 500x) on straight bets.
- Key Rule Change: Standard straight-up bets pay less than 35:1 to balance the multipliers.
- House Edge: Around 2.90% (similar to Lightning Roulette).
- Best for: Players who chase massive wins while sticking to a familiar roulette structure.
Verdict
Quantum Roulette dials up the drama with massive multipliers reaching up to 500x, wrapped in a visually stunning experience. But with higher volatility, be prepared for dry spells between those big hits.
Double Ball Roulette
- How It Works: Uses two balls per spin, meaning double the chances to win per round.
- Key Rule Change:
- You can win two payouts on a single bet if both balls land on the same number.
- Straight-up bet payout is reduced to 17:1 (compared to the usual 35:1).
- House Edge: Around 5.33% (higher than standard European roulette).
- Best for: Players who enjoy more action per spin and increased winning opportunities.
Verdict
Double Ball Roulette cranks up the action with two balls per spin, doubling your chances to win and unlocking massive side bet payouts. But keep in mind—the higher house edge and reduced standard payouts make it a riskier ride.
Multi-Wheel Roulette
- How It Works: Bet on up to six wheels at once—each spins independently, but all use the same bet placement.
- Key Rule: The house edge remains the same as European Roulette.
- Best for: Players who love high-speed action and multiple outcomes in one spin.
Verdict
Multi-Wheel Roulette takes the thrill to the next level, letting you bet on up to six wheels at once for nonstop action. Just watch your bankroll—spreading bets across multiple wheels can drain it fast.
Modern Roulette Variants Based on American Roulette
Double Action Roulette
- How It Works: Features a second set of numbers on the wheel, meaning two winning numbers per spin.
- House Edge: Around 5.26% (same as American Roulette).
- Best for: Players who enjoy complex betting strategies and multiple winning possibilities.
Verdict
Double Action Roulette doubles the excitement with two winning numbers per spin, offering more betting opportunities and lower volatility on some wagers. But be aware—the house edge remains as steep as standard American Roulette.
Modern Roulette Variants Based on French Roulette
Mini Roulette
- How It Works: A smaller wheel with only 13 numbers instead of 37.
- Key Rule Change:
- Fewer numbers = higher variance and a house edge of 7.89%.
- Uses the La Partage Rule, which refunds half of even-money bets when the ball lands on zero.
- Best for: Casual players looking for a fast, simplified roulette experience.
Verdict
Mini Roulette keeps things simple with a smaller wheel and faster gameplay, making it great for casual players. Just keep in mind—the higher house edge means bigger risks compared to traditional roulette.
How to Choose the Best Roulette Game
The right roulette variant depends on your playing style, risk tolerance, and experience level. Some versions offer better roulette odds, while others provide bigger payouts or unique mechanics that make them more exciting.
When you play roulette, choosing the right variant and platform can significantly impact your overall experience and odds.
Roulette Variants with the Lowest House Edge
If you’re looking for the best odds, these versions reduce the casino’s advantage, increasing your potential returns:
| French Roulette (2.70% ) | The best choice for even-money bets due to its La Partage rule. |
|---|---|
| European Roulette (1.35%) | A solid choice with a lower house edge than American roulette. |
| Roulette Royale (2.70%) | A progressive jackpot variant that follows European rules but adds jackpot-winning potential. |
Roulette Variants with the Highest Payouts
Some versions offer huge potential payouts, making them ideal for players looking for high-risk, high-reward games:
| Lightning Roulette | Multipliers up to 500x on straight-up bets. |
|---|---|
| Age of the Gods Roulette | Features a progressive jackpot alongside traditional European roulette gameplay. RTP (Return to Player) is 94.74% |
| Triple Bonus Spin Roulette | Unique triple-wheel bonus feature with potential for massive payouts and an RTP of 94.30% |
Best Roulette Variants for Beginners
New to roulette? Start with straightforward versions that offer good odds and simple rules:
| European Roulette | The standard choice for new players. |
|---|---|
| Astro Roulette | A themed version that replaces numbers with zodiac signs, keeping the rules simple. |
| Mini Roulette | A smaller wheel (13 numbers) with easier gameplay but a slightly higher house edge |
There are various roulette variations suitable for beginners, such as these classic versions that are easy to understand and play.
Many online platforms offer demo versions, allowing beginners to play roulette online and get familiar with the game before wagering real money.
Roulette Variants for Advanced Players
Experienced players may prefer more complex versions with additional betting opportunities and unique features:
| Lightning Roulette | Requires an understanding of multipliers and strategic straight bets. |
|---|---|
| Double Ball Roulette | Involves two balls per spin, increasing potential payouts but requiring a refined betting approach. |
| Age of the Gods Roulette | Adds a progressive jackpot mechanic, requiring a mix of regular bets and jackpot strategy. |
Other Roulette Guides
Conclusion
Understanding roulette variants allows you to make informed choices and play smarter. Whether you prefer classic games, high-risk excitement, or innovative twists, knowing how each version works puts you in control.
Which roulette variant will you play next?
Emily is our seasoned content writer. She writes easy to read and helpful game guides, so you can quickly understand the rules of each game and get some useful tips that can help boost your chances of winning.
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