Although roulette may seem simple at first glance, it often leads to questions about how licensed casinos manage to operate profitably over time, even though individual players may experience wins or losses along the way.
Understanding how the game functions—especially within a regulated and licensed environment—could provide helpful context for those interested in how the system is structured. Read on to explore more about how roulette works.
What Is The House Edge?
The term "house edge" describes the built-in mathematical advantage that exists in all casino games. It represents the average amount a licensed operator is expected to keep from each wager over a long period of time. This edge is part of how games are designed and ensures that the casino can operate sustainably.
Rather than indicating the outcome of any individual spin or session, the house edge reflects long-term probabilities. It’s important to note that outcomes are still determined by chance, and every result is independent of the last.
In roulette, as with other games, the structure and rules of the version being played influence the size of the house edge. This can vary between different formats, whether played online or in person. Taking a moment to understand which version is being offered could help provide clearer insight into how the game works.
How Do Casinos Make Money on Roulette?
Roulette is designed in a way that gives the casino a small statistical advantage, which is how it generates revenue over time. This is achieved by setting payout rates that are slightly less favourable than the actual odds of the outcomes.
For instance, a straight-up bet on a single number typically pays 35 to 1. However, on a European roulette wheel, there are 37 numbered pockets, meaning the actual probability of hitting one specific number is 1 in 37. The difference between the payout and the true odds results in a built-in margin for the casino.
A key feature that contributes to this margin is the green zero. Its presence means that bets such as red or black no longer have an even 50/50 chance, as the zero adds an extra possible outcome. This consistent statistical edge applies across every spin and bet, and can add up over time across many wagers.
There are also different variations of roulette, and each may have slightly different rules and layouts. These differences can influence the overall house edge, so reviewing the specifics of each version may help players make more informed decisions based on their own preferences.
What Is The House Edge In Roulette?
The house edge in roulette can vary based on the specific version being played. European roulette, for example, features 37 pockets—numbers 1 to 36 plus a single green zero—and has a house edge of approximately 2.7%.
American roulette, on the other hand, includes an additional double zero, bringing the total number of pockets to 38. This design increases the house edge to about 5.26%, which corresponds to a return to player (RTP) rate of around 94.74%.
Some versions, such as French roulette, may introduce rules like “La Partage” or “En Prison.” These rules apply only to even-money bets and can reduce the house edge in specific situations. For example, under the “La Partage” rule, if the ball lands on zero, half of the even-money stake is returned. The “En Prison” rule allows the bet to stay on the table for one more spin instead of being lost immediately.
Being aware of which version of roulette is in play, and whether these additional rules are used, can help in better understanding how the game’s outcomes and probabilities work.
Is There a Secret To Winning Roulette?
Roulette is a game of chance, with each spin operating independently of the last. The outcome depends entirely on where the ball lands, and no strategy or system can change the underlying odds or eliminate the house edge.
In online settings, roulette outcomes are determined using certified Random Number Generators (RNGs). These systems are tested by independent organisations approved by the UK Gambling Commission, ensuring that each result is fair, random, and not influenced by previous spins or patterns.
While some players may use strategies like the Martingale or Fibonacci systems to decide how they place bets, these approaches do not affect the probability of winning.
Roulette is designed to produce unpredictable outcomes. Gaining a clear understanding of how the game works—including the house edge and the rules of different versions—can help individuals make informed decisions. If you’d like to explore more about roulette odds or game variations, our other guides offer further information.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.