Roulette is one of the classic casino games that has many variations. However, as a beginner, you might be wondering which roulette variation to play. In this guide, we will explore some of the popular roulette games that you can find in Canadian online casinos.
But why is this game so popular? Roulette’s popularity lies in its straightforward gameplay and favorable odds. The goal is simple: bet on the outcome of a spinning roulette wheel. Even-money bets like red/black or odd/even give you almost a 50% chance of winning, which can be enticing, especially for beginners. Today, you’ll find multiple types of roulette games on casino platforms, each offering a unique twist on this classic.
Original Roulette
Starting with the basics, Original Roulette—sometimes just called “ordinary roulette”—is the classic version known to most players. In this game, you place bets on a single number, a color, or options like odd/even and high/low. When the wheel stops spinning, the ball lands on a number, and you either win or lose based on your bet.
For Canadians just getting into roulette, this version remains a staple due to its simplicity and ease of play. It doesn’t feature any extra rules or twists, making it ideal for those looking to learn the game without distractions. It’s also great for players who enjoy a straightforward approach with basic betting strategies.
European Roulette
European Roulette is widely played across many casinos outside North America and is one of the top choices for Canadian players. The wheel in this version has 37 slots, numbered from 1 to 36 in alternating red and black colors, plus a single green ‘0’. The green ‘0’ slot is key here—it keeps the house edge at 2.7%, which is relatively low compared to other versions. This makes version appealing to Canadians looking to play roulette online and still leverage good odds.
The simplicity of European Roulette and its slightly better odds make it a favorite for many Canadian players who prefer lower risk. As a beginner, this version offers a solid balance between straightforward gameplay and a manageable house edge.
American Roulette
American Roulette brings a slight variation to the table, particularly popular in the United States. Here, the wheel has 38 segments, including a ‘0’ and an additional ‘00’ slot, making it different from its European counterpart. This additional slot raises the house edge to around 5.26%, making it less favorable than European Roulette from a purely statistical perspective.
Despite the higher house edge, some Canadians find the thrill of American Roulette appealing. The added element of the double zero creates a more challenging experience, and if you’re in it for the excitement rather than just the odds, this variation can be a good choice.
French Roulette
French Roulette is similar to the European version, with 37 slots and a single zero. However, what sets French Roulette apart are the unique rules of ‘En Prison’ and ‘La Partage.’ These rules apply to even-money bets, such as red/black or odd/even, giving you a chance to get half your bet back or keep it “in prison” for another spin if the ball lands on zero.
For Canadians who enjoy strategic betting, French Roulette can be quite rewarding, as these rules slightly improve your chances compared to other versions. It’s particularly suited for those who like to stick with even-money bets and appreciate a more complex gameplay dynamic.
Lightning Roulette
Lightning Roulette is one of the most played variations at top Canadian online casinos. This version introduces a unique “lightning” element, where each round randomly selects several “lucky numbers” that can offer enhanced payouts.
With the potential to score higher-than-normal returns on specific numbers, Lightning Roulette adds more engaging gameplay, making it a thrilling option for players. If you’re feeling adventurous and wish to try a version with the potential for big payouts, Lightning Roulette could be just what you’re looking for.
Speed Roulette
For those who prefer a quicker gaming experience, Speed Roulette is designed to make each round faster. The basic rules and betting options remain the same as in standard roulette, but the time between bets and spins is minimized. You can easily get through extra rounds in a shorter time frame.
If you’re a Canadian player who values efficiency or simply doesn’t want to wait too long between rounds, Speed Roulette offers a streamlined experience. Players who like to keep the action going without long pauses will love this option.
Immersive Roulette
Immersive Roulette is the go-to choice for those who want to replicate the traditional casino feel with enhanced visuals. This variant uses multiple camera angles to capture the spinning wheel and betting table, creating a more engaging, cinematic experience. There’s even slow-motion replay after winning spins, adding to the overall excitement.
If you’re a Canadian player missing the feel of a land-based casino, Immersive Roulette offers an experience close to the real thing. This game is a favorite among players who enjoy the atmosphere of live roulette and want to take it up a notch.
Live Roulette
Live Roulette offers a real-time gaming experience where you play with a live dealer on a dedicated table. You can watch the wheel spin and see the roulette ball land on your chosen numbers, making for an interactive experience that feels similar to playing in a brick-and-mortar casino.
Many Canadians appreciate the authenticity of Live Roulette. With real dealers, dedicated studios, and multiple camera angles, it brings a real-world feel that’s hard to match. If you’re craving the ambiance of a live casino, this option is sure to please.