How Is A Roulette Wheel Numbered?
Before you become a competitive roulette player, it is imperative that you studiously learn the rules and core elements of gameplay. Although this may seem like an unnecessary step given the fun and seemingly opportunistic nature of the game, it is your ability to process and master the individual building blocks of competitive gameplay that will ultimately determine your level of success or failure. The first step is to understand the make-up and number sequence featured on both European and American roulette wheels, as this will help you to minimise risk and develop a strategy for success.
The American and European Roulette Wheels: Sequence and Layout
As even novice players can testify, there are two standard versions of the roulette wheel. These are adopted in American and European formats of the game respectively and there a couple of core differences in terms of their number sequence and prevailing house edge. More specifically, the American wheel has an additional, double zero grove etched on the board, while elevates the house edge and lowers each individual players’ probability of winning. The number sequence used by both boards also varies considerably, which means that players who switch format need to become familiar with both over time.
As we can see, the additional ‘double zero’ groove sits directly opposite the single zero alternative, while it is flanked on both sides by two black slots. A sequence of red then black is then continued along each side of the wheel, and while this mirrors the design of the European wheel the sequence of the numbers changes considerably. It is unclear as to why the numerical sequence changes so noticeably, although some believe that this is a way of confusing travelling professional players who are active across both boards at various times.
The Bottom Line for Players
Fortunately, the American wheel remains dominant throughout the majority of online casinos and bricks and mortar establishments throughout the U.S. and the UK. So although this type of wheel provides a steeper house edge and a lower probability of winning, it remains easier for players to become familiar with the numbered sequence and develop a strategy that factors in the presence of an additional, double zero groove. Although the number sequence featured on a European roulette wheel and the absence of a double zero groove improves the odds of individual success, the majority of casinos restrict this version of the game to high stakes, no limit tables where only wealthy gamblers can operate.
