The word roulette is derived from the French word meaning small wheel and has become the classic symbol of casino gambling in America. It evokes images of elegant, smooth-talking, Bond-like characters exuding high-stakes arrogance, accessorized with expensive suits, top shelf liqueur, and a model on each arm. These are the very images upon which Vegas casinos have been marketing themselves for decades.

Despite the universal recognition of the roulette wheel as an icon for gambling, roulette is far more popular in European casinos as compared to those in America. Most likely, this is due to the fact that the game is played differently in Europe. The American wheel has an extra slot (00), and this means that the odds of winning arent as good as the odds on European roulette wheels.

This brings us to the advantages of playing roulette online. The most obvious advantage is that online wheels are set up in the European fashion (without the 00), and the odds of winning online are therefore better than in American casinos. Specifically, this cuts the house advantage from 5.26 percent to 2.63 percent. Another advantage is that when playing online, a player can take 45 minutes to place a bet. You can sit in the comfort of your computer room with a book on roulette strategy in your lap. You also dont have to worry about fighting your way through a crowd to place a bet, dealing with drunk, obnoxious players, and you dont have to fear the performance anxiety often associated with playing in front of the large, social crowds that often gravitate to the roulette table. Basically, playing online puts you in control of the game and allows you to concentrate on improving your skills.

Another very compelling reason to play roulette online is a financial one. Since the costs of maintaining an online roulette table are much lower than maintaining an actual on-site casino, websites can offer higher pay-out percentages. These sites will also compete for your business. Many sites will offer lucrative bonuses such as matching your initial deposit and bonuses based on the amount you play over time.

Visually, you will be amazed by the graphics used on online roulette sites. They are designed to entice players and keep you coming back. For the most part, you wont be able to tell the difference between an online table and an actual casino table, and the online wheels can be played at your convenience without the expense of flying to Vegas and renting an Armani suit.