Roulette has long been a casino favorite, known for its simple gameplay and the iconic spinning wheel. Over time, several variants have emerged—each with subtle rule changes and different odds. One of the latest additions is triple zero roulette, a game designed to look familiar but quietly increases the house edge to levels most players would avoid if they fully understood the numbers.
Here’s why triple zero roulette might not be the exciting new version it claims to be—and why informed players should approach it with caution.
What Is Triple Zero Roulette?
Triple zero roulette, also known as 000 roulette, features a third green pocket labeled “000” in addition to the traditional “0” and “00” found in American roulette. This expands the total number of slots on the wheel from 38 to 39. Aside from this change, everything else remains the same—standard betting options, traditional layout, and typical 35:1 payout for a straight-up number bet.
However, the addition of just one extra zero significantly impacts your odds as a player.
Comparing the Variants: Single, Double, and Triple Zero
To understand how much the house edge changes, consider the three main versions of roulette:
| Variant | Total Pockets | House Edge |
| European Roulette | 37 (0-36) | 2.70% |
| American Roulette | 38 (0, 00, 1-36) | 5.26% |
| Triple Zero Roulette | 39 (0, 00, 000, 1–36) | 7.69% |
That means for every $100 wagered:
- European roulette expects a $2.70 average loss
- American roulette expects a $5.26 average loss
- Triple zero roulette expects a $7.69 average loss
In other words, triple zero roulette costs nearly three times as much in expected losses as the original European version.
Why Casinos Introduce Triple Zero Roulette
Casinos are businesses. Adding a third zero on the wheel increases their profit per spin without offering players anything new. This version often appears in high-traffic casino areas like the Las Vegas Strip, where players are typically tourists or casual gamblers unfamiliar with the odds.
The game is often branded under names like “Vegas Roulette,” and accompanied by flashy visuals or new wheel designs to distract from the worsened payout structure. The appeal lies in comfort—players think they’re getting the same roulette experience, when in reality, they’re playing against a much steeper edge.
Why Triple Zero Roulette Is a Trap
No Added Value for the Player
Despite the new label, triple zero roulette offers no changes to the rules or payouts that favor the player. The odds of winning a straight-up bet remain 1 in 39, but the payout is still 35:1—just like in games with better odds. The casino takes more without giving anything extra in return.
Psychological Manipulation
Players may not notice the additional zero immediately. On a fast-paced casino floor, the differences between variants aren’t always explained. Combined with colorful graphics or lower minimum bets, players might unknowingly choose a variant with far worse odds.
Misleading Table Limits
Triple zero tables often offer lower table minimums, attracting budget players. But this is a trade-off: you’re risking your money on a game where the house edge is significantly inflated. What feels like an accessible option is actually more costly over time.
How to Spot and Avoid Triple Zero Roulette
- Check the wheel or layout: If you see 0, 00, and 000, it’s a triple zero table.
- Look at the payout structure: Despite the extra zero, the payouts stay the same. This is a clear red flag.
- Read the table signage carefully: Some casinos name the game something different, like “Ultimate Roulette” or “Vegas Roulette,” but the presence of three zeros is the key.
- Use online or European roulette options: Most reputable online casinos offer European roulette, which gives you far better odds with a single zero.
Is There Ever a Good Reason to Play Triple Zero?
In most cases, no. The only exception might be if it’s the only available variant and you’re playing purely for entertainment with a small bankroll. Even then, the cost of entertainment is higher than necessary. If you’re a player who cares about minimizing losses and maximizing returns, triple zero roulette has little to offer.
Final Thoughts
Triple zero roulette is a textbook example of a game variant that looks harmless but quietly tilts the odds further in the casino’s favor. It adds no value for the player, significantly raises the house edge, and often relies on player ignorance to succeed. If you enjoy roulette, stick with European roulette whenever possible. It’s a much fairer game—and your bankroll will thank you.