Understanding the business strategy behind higher house edges
European roulette was the original game, featuring a single zero (0) and offering the fairest odds to players. With 37 pockets (0-36), the house edge is 2.7% on even-money bets like red/black.
In the 1800s, American casinos introduced the double-zero (00) variation to increase their profit margins. This simple addition of one extra pocket dramatically increased the house edge.
The addition of just one extra pocket increased the house edge from 2.7% to 5.3% - nearly doubling the casino's advantage!
In recent years, some casinos have introduced triple-zero roulette (000) to extract even more profit from players. This variation is primarily found in Las Vegas and represents the worst odds available.
With three zeros, the house edge reaches 7.7% - nearly three times higher than European roulette!
| Variation | Zeros | Total Pockets | House Edge | Red/Black Win Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| European | 1 (0) | 37 | 2.7% | 48.6% |
| American | 2 (0, 00) | 38 | 5.3% | 47.4% |
| Triple Zero | 3 (0, 00, 000) | 39 | 7.7% | 46.2% |
Casinos are businesses designed to make money. Each variation was introduced for specific reasons:
Every additional zero increases the house edge, meaning more money flows to the casino over time. A 5.3% house edge vs 2.7% means the casino keeps nearly twice as much money.
Different variations target different player types:
Many players don't realize that adding zeros dramatically changes their odds. They see the same game but with worse chances of winning.
Let's say you bet $100 per spin for 1,000 spins:
Always choose European roulette when available. The difference between 2.7% and 5.3% house edge is enormous over time.
If you must play roulette:
Remember: The only way to eliminate house edge completely is not to play. The goal is to minimize losses, not eliminate them.
Casinos didn't create these variations to give players more options - they created them to take more money. Each additional zero is a deliberate strategy to increase the casino's profit margin while maintaining the illusion of the same game.
The lesson is clear: always check the house edge before playing any casino game. Small percentage differences compound into massive losses over time.
The only way to eliminate house edge completely is not to play. If you choose to play, minimize your losses by choosing the best available odds.