If you sit down to play roulette, you are going to notice the green zero on the wheel. You might wonder, "Is zero even like the other numbers?"
In roulette, zero is a special number. Unlike the red and black numbers, which can be odd or even, or high or low, zero sits outside these categories. It doesn't fit into any of the outside bets, including the bets for even and odd numbers.
Understanding how the zero works in roulette is a fundamental part of understanding roulette. This key piece of foundational knowledge can help you make smarter bets and potentially enjoy the game more. Let's explore what makes zero unique in roulette.
Is Zero Classed As An Even Number In Roulette?
No, zero is not considered an even number in roulette. It doesn't belong to any specific category related to odd or even numbers or any of the other outside bets.
When you place outside bets like "even" or "odd", you are betting on specific groups of numbers. However, these bets do not include the zero. Zero is treated differently because it's neither odd nor even, neither red nor black, and neither high nor low.
This means if you bet on "even" and the ball lands on zero, you will lose that bet. Zero operates separately from the usual grouping of numbers, adding an extra layer of excitement and challenge to the game.
Understanding this can help you make more informed betting decisions. Always remember that zero is in its own category in roulette.
Why Does Roulette Use Zero?
Zero in roulette has a very important role. It is there to give the house an edge over the players. This means that the casino makes a profit from the game in the long run because the odds are tipped ever so slightly in their favour.
If you bet on outside options like odd, even, red, black, high, low, dozens, or columns, the zero pocket is not included in those bets. If the ball lands on zero, those bets lose.
This is called the 'house edge', and it helps casinos stay in business and keep offering games to players. The house edge is not some sneaky ploy; it is built into the design of the game. It's the reason for the even-money bets always having just under 50/50 odds of winning because it counts as a loss no matter which you choose to bet on.
In American roulette, there is a green 00 pocket in addition to the standard green 0 pocket. This new pocket works exactly the same as the standard zero, it doesn't belong to any of the outside bets.
What Are The Odds Of Getting Zero In Roulette?
The odds of landing on zero in roulette depend on the type of wheel being used.
In European roulette, there is one zero on the wheel, making a total of 37 pockets (numbers 1-36 and a single zero). Here, the odds of landing on zero are 1 in 37 or 2.7%.
In American roulette, there are two zeros (0 and 00), making a total of 38 pockets. So, the odds of landing on a zero in American roulette are 2 in 38 or 5.26%.
These odds make zero a rare outcome compared to other numbers. Keep in mind, though, that these odds are a representation of the house edge - the advantage the casino has over players - so you can see that the house edge differs based on the wheel being used.
Understanding these odds can help you manage your expectations and make wiser betting choices while playing roulette. Always gamble responsibly and never chase your losses.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.