Have you ever wondered exactly how many numbers there are on a roulette wheel? Knowing this detail can be valuable, especially if you’re trying to understand the odds of different roulette variations. Since casinos often add new twists to standard games to improve their edge, it helps to be aware of these differences and the odds at play.
Let’s take a closer look at the history of the roulette wheel, the different variations, and how the numbers differ across each type of roulette.
A Brief History of Roulette
Roulette dates back to the 17th century. The French physicist Blaise Pascal, trying to create a perpetual motion machine, accidentally laid the groundwork for what became the roulette wheel. By the late 1700s, roulette had become popular in French casinos, and the wheel design evolved to resemble the modern layout we know today. European roulette was the original version, but newer variations have since appeared, particularly in American casinos.
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How Many Numbers Are on a Roulette Wheel?
The number of pockets on a roulette wheel depends on the specific game type. Let’s break down the details for each variation of roulette:
European Roulette
- Total Pockets: 37
- Counting Numbers: 36 numbers from 1 to 36, plus a single green 0
- House Edge: 2.7%
European roulette, also called single-zero roulette, has just one green pocket (0), making it a preferred option for players who want better odds. You’ll often find this version in high-limit rooms at North American casinos, but it’s also widely available online.
American Roulette
- Total Pockets: 38
- Counting Numbers: 36 numbers from 1 to 36, plus two green pockets (0 and 00)
- House Edge: 5.26%
American roulette, also known as double-zero roulette, includes both 0 and 00, which adds an extra edge in favor of the house. This version is the most common in North American casinos.
Triple-Zero Roulette
- Total Pockets: 39
- Counting Numbers: 36 numbers from 1 to 36, plus three green pockets (0, 00, and 000)
- House Edge: 7.69%
The newest version, triple-zero roulette, first appeared in Las Vegas and is catching on at other casinos. With its extra green pocket, this version has the worst odds for players, comparable to some slot machines.
Types of Roulette Bets
Roulette offers a variety of bets, generally divided into two categories: Inside Bets and Outside Bets.
Inside Bets
- Straight Bet: Betting on a single number.
- Split Bet: Betting on two adjacent numbers on the table.
- Street Bet: Betting on a row of three numbers.
- Corner Bet: Betting on a block of four numbers.
- Six Line Bet: Betting on six consecutive numbers across two rows.
- Trio Bet: A bet involving 0, combined with two numbers next to it.
- Basket Bet (American Roulette): Includes 0, 00, and three more numbers (1-2-3) for a total of five numbers.
Outside Bets
- Red or Black: Bet on the color you think will win.
- Even or Odd: Betting on whether the winning number will be even or odd.
- 1 to 18 or 19 to 36: Bet on whether the number will fall in the lower or upper half of the number range.
- Dozen Bets: Divide the numbers into three sets of twelve.
- Column Bet: Bet on one of the three columns of numbers.
Conclusion
To sum up, all roulette wheels contain the numbers 1 through 36, but the variations lie in the additional green pockets. European roulette has one (0) for a total of 37 pockets, American roulette adds 00 for 38 pockets, and triple-zero roulette adds 000 for 39 pockets. Knowing which variation you’re playing can make a difference in understanding the odds and maximizing your gaming experience.
