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Roulette Numbers Explained: Complete Guide | LeoVegas

Roulette Numbers: Complete Guide

Roulette is a timeless casino favourite that has captivated players for centuries. At the heart of each spin are the numbers on the roulette wheel, which determine outcomes and guide strategies. Mastering these numbers and understanding how different wheel types affect odds is essential for anyone looking to elevate their gameplay.

Table of Contents:

This guide dives into the nuances of roulette numbers, their impact on odds, and how wheel variations influence the game. From betting strategies to common myths, we’ll equip you with the insights you need to approach the game confidently and make the most of every spin.

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Understanding the Roulette Wheel

At the heart of the roulette game is the wheel itself, which consists of a spinning disk with numbered slots where the ball can land. Players bet on where the ball will fall, with different payouts depending on the chosen number or group of numbers.

Types of Roulette Wheels

There are three main types of roulette wheels: American, European, and French. While similar in most ways, the layout of the numbers and the presence of zeroes distinguish these versions. Below is a breakdown of the numbers on different roulette wheels:

  • American Roulette: Features 38 numbers (00, 0, 1–36)
  • European Roulette: Has 37 numbers (0, 1–36)
  • French Roulette: Similar to the European version but includes unique rules like "La Partage," affecting gameplay around the zero

The Role of the Zero(s) in Roulette

The zeros (0 and 00) are integral in roulette because they provide the house with its edge. Unlike the other numbers, zeroes are neither red nor black, odd nor even, which tilts the probability in favour of the casino.

In European and French roulette, there is a single zero (0), which results in a lower house edge of about 2.7%. American roulette includes a 0 and 00, increasing the house edge to 5.26%. This main difference makes the European and French versions more advantageous for playing compared to the American variant.

How Many Numbers Are There On The Roulette Wheel?

Roulette numbers are the numbered slots on a roulette wheel that determine the outcome of each spin. The wheel typically features numbers ranging from 0 to 36 on a European or French wheel and from 00 and 0 to 36 on an American wheel.

The numbers alternate between red and black (except for the green zeroes), and each arrangement provides a unique sequence depending on the wheel type.

In European and French roulette, there is a single green zero, while American roulette includes both a green 0 and 00, creating slightly higher odds in favour of the house.

Fair to mention as well that SOME American wheels even play with three zero pockets. But head our warning, those tables really have a spiked house edge and are best to avoid!

European Roulette Number Sequence

The European roulette wheel is numbered 0 through 36. But, there’s nothing sequential about roulette numbers on the wheel. The European roulette wheel numbers sequence runs as follows: 0, 32, 15, 19, 4, 21, 2, 25, 17, 34, 6, 27, 13, 36, 11, 30, 8, 23, 10, 5, 24, 16, 33, 1, 20, 14, 31, 9, 22, 18, 29, 7, 28, 12, 35, 3 and 26.

Thinking of the numbers on the roulette betting table as an extension of the wheel, the number sequence on the roulette table dictates slight nuances in betting options when playing European roulette.

French Roulette Number Sequence

This is going to look familiar to you since French and European roulette play on the same wheel. Therefore, both wheels play roulette online follow the same number sequence of 0, 32, 15, 19, 4, 21, 2, 25, 17, 34, 6, 27, 13, 36, 11, 30, 8, 23, 10, 5, 24, 16, 33, 1, 20, 14, 31, 9, 22, 18, 29, 7, 28, 12, 35, 3 and 26.

If you’re looking at the table betting felt and not just the wheel, the addition of two specific rules are evident. La partage and En Prison, which have an effect on payouts and odds, come into play when outside bets are made and the ball rolls into zero.

For the La Partage rule, this means players get half their wager back, which is definitely favourable to the player. Playing En Prison, this same scenario of such bets and the ball rolling into zero gives the player a choice of half their wager back or letting it ride!

American Roulette Number Sequence

Go figure, the American wheel is bigger than its European counterpart. The American roulette wheel layout houses numbers 0 through 36 but it also is home to an additional zero (00) - for a grand total of 38 pockets. The roulette numbers on an American wheel run as follows: 0, 28, 9, 26, 30, 11, 7, 20, 32, 17, 5, 22, 34, 15, 3, 24, 36, 13, 1, 00, 27, 10, 25, 29, 12, 8, 19, 31, 18, 6, 21, 33, 16, 4, 23, 35, 14, 2.

Probability and Roulette Numbers

The odds of winning in roulette depend on the type of bet, but the house always holds an advantage due to the zero pockets. As previously mentioned, European roulette has one zero, while American roulette has both a 0 and a 00. These green zero pockets reduce the player’s chances of winning specific bets and increase the house edge.

For a straight bet in European roulette, the probability of winning is 1 in 37 since you are selecting a single number out of 37 possible outcomes. For outside bets that cover 18 numbers, such as betting on black, the chance of winning is 18 in 37, which is close to 50/50. That said, the zero shifts the odds slightly in favour of the house.

In roulette, players can choose from a variety of bets, offering different levels of risk. Straight bets have lower chances of winning but offer the highest payout, while outside bets cover more numbers and come with a better chance of success, though with lower rewards.

Strategies Involving Roulette Numbers

Numerous betting strategies revolve around the numbers in roulette. While these strategies can’t change the house edge, they help guide how players manage their bets.

The Martingale System: Doubling Down on Numbers

The Martingale system involves players doubling their bet after each loss to cover losses when they eventually win. This system works best on even-money bets like red/black or odd/even. However, it’s important to note that the strategy is high-risk and calls for a large bankroll.

The Labouchère Strategy: Sequential Number Targeting

The Labouchère system, which can also be referred to as the cancellation or split Martingale system, requires the player to set a target profit before beginning the game. The player creates a sequence of positive numbers that total the desired profit. For each bet, they stake the sum of the first and last numbers in the sequence. If they win, those numbers are removed from the list. If they lose, the lost amount is added to the end of the sequence. This process continues until all the numbers are crossed off, meaning the target profit has been reached.

The Fibonacci Sequence in Roulette

The Fibonacci roulette strategy is inspired by the famous Fibonacci sequence, in which each number is the sum of the previous two (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, and so on). After each loss, the player increases their bet according to the following number in the sequence, and after a win, they step back two positions. This approach is considered moderate in risk compared to the Martingale strategy and is often used with even-money bets.

The House Edge and Its Relationship to Roulette Numbers

To calculate the house edge in European roulette, note that the wheel consists of 36 red and black numbers (18 each) plus a green 0. This zero gives the casino its advantage (edge), as the game pays out as though there are only 36 numbers when there are actually 37. This means the odds of winning on any spin are 1 in 37.

To determine the house edge, divide 1 (the zero) by 37 (the total numbers on the European wheel), which gives 0.027. Multiply that by 100 to get a 2.7% house edge. This means the casino theoretically gains $2.70 for every $100 wagered, though actual outcomes may vary.

In French roulette, the layout is the same as European roulette with a single green 0, but it offers rules like La Partage or En Prison, which reduce the house edge on even-money bets. If you place an even-money bet (red/black, odd/even) and the ball lands on 0, you only lose half your wager. This brings the house edge down to 1.35% on even-money bets.

In American roulette, the house edge is higher because of the additional 00. The wheel has 18 red and black numbers, plus the 0 and 00, totalling 38 positions. Players are effectively betting as if there are only 36 numbers, but they cannot win from 0 or 00.

To calculate the house edge for American roulette, divide 2 (the 0 and 00) by 38 (the total numbers on the American wheel), resulting in 0.0526. Multiply by 100 to arrive at a 5.26% house edge, meaning the casino gains $5.26 for every $100 wagered.

The Role of Number Patterns in Roulette

Many players believe patterns can be found in the numbers on a roulette wheel, but in reality, roulette is governed by randomness and driven entirely by chance. Each spin of the wheel is independent, meaning past results have no influence on future outcomes. While players often perceive patterns or streaks, like repeated colours or numbers, these are merely coincidences that have become myths over time.

This is because the human brain naturally seeks patterns in random events, leading to strategies based on false assumptions. Despite popular belief, roulette has no reliable number of patterns to watch for.

Common Misconceptions About Roulette Numbers

As detailed below, several common myths cloud players’ understanding of roulette numbers.

The Gambler’s Fallacy and Roulette Numbers

The Gambler’s Fallacy is the mistaken belief that past outcomes influence future ones. In roulette, each spin is independent, so even if the ball lands on red 20 times in a row, the odds of landing on black remain the same. The same logic applies to single numbers; every number always has the same chance of appearing, regardless of previous spins. Believing that a particular outcome is "due" can lead to costly mistakes in both live and online roulette.

Luck vs Strategy: The Role of Random Numbers

In roulette, luck is the ultimate factor in determining where the ball lands. No amount of strategy can alter the randomness of each spin. Betting systems, such as Martingale or Fibonacci, are often used to manage risk (provided they’re executed correctly) by guiding players' bets. Still, they cannot change the odds or predict outcomes.

Reducing the House Edge

While some may believe otherwise, the house edge in roulette is unavoidable. The only way it can be “reduced” is by choosing a French roulette wheel (2.7% edge) over the American wheel (5.26%). Playing with La Partage or En Prison rules can lower it further to 1.3%. Ultimately, walking away with your winnings is the best way to stay ahead.

Specific numbers are favoured in roulette due to cultural beliefs or personal superstitions, though betting on them has no mathematical advantage. For example, 7 is considered lucky in many cultures and frequently chosen by players, while 17 is popular because of its central position on the roulette table.

Similarly, some players avoid 13 due to its association with bad luck. Despite these preferences, every number on the wheel has an equal chance of appearing, making superstitions irrelevant to actual game outcomes. While these beliefs add a layer of personal excitement, it should be noted that they do not affect the odds or improve a player’s chances of winning.

Historical Evolution of Roulette and Its Numbering System

The name "roulette" derives from the French word "little wheel." The exact origins of roulette are somewhat unclear, but many historians credit Blaise Pascal, the renowned French mathematician and inventor, with inadvertently creating a precursor to the game in the 17th century.

Pascal's experiment to develop a perpetual motion machine failed, but it ultimately led to the invention of a game resembling modern roulette.

Early versions of roulette featured a wheel with 40 numbered pockets, a small ball, and a simple betting layout. As the game evolved, the number of pockets gradually reduced to 36, marking a shift toward the design we recognize today.

Roulette gained widespread popularity in both Europe and the United States during the 19th century. In 1843, François and Louis Blanc introduced the single-zero roulette wheel in Bad Homburg, Germany, providing a lower house edge for players.

Meanwhile, the traditional double-zero wheel continued to thrive in France and later made its way to the United States, where it spread from New Orleans across the country, particularly in western states. The distinction between single-zero European roulette and double-zero American roulette remains a key difference in the game today.

Summary

Roulette is a casino game that involves a spinning wheel with numbered pockets, numbered from 0 to 36 in European roulette and 0 to 36 plus 00 in American roulette.

The numbers on the wheel are arranged in a specific order, but there is no pattern to the sequence. While some players may have lucky numbers or superstitions, the game is ultimately random and the chance of the ball landing on any given number is the same.

Roulette Numbers FAQ

What is the highest number on a roulette wheel?

No matter what variation of roulette you’re playing, the highest number on the wheel is 36. That’s because the notable difference between American and European roulette wheels is the number of zero pockets - there’s two on the American wheel (0 + 00) and one on the European wheel. Obviously, triple zero roulette, is at the bottom of the number ranks, so this difference doesn’t affect the highest number.

How many numbers should you bet in roulette?

You can bet as many numbers as you like, whatever you feel is a comfortable amount. Of course, the more numbers you bet, the less of a payout you’ll receive, net, as you’ve bet more to get a win. Ideally you want to make an efficient bet land based on a string of numbers by position on the wheel or some high or low fashion that makes sense for you to follow easily as the roulette ball spins around the wheel.

Let’s say you bet 6 numbers. What are your chances of winning, and what is the payout?

Well, on a European wheel, there are 36 numbers plus a zero, and on most American wheels, there are 36 numbers plus two zeros. We won’t talk about some American wheels that have a third zero; we’ll avoid those! That’s the house getting too greedy!

With 36 numbers and two zeros you have a 1 in 38 shot of hitting your number. If you play 6 numbers like in our example, your odds would be 6/38 or 15.7% chance of hitting. Assuming you’re betting one chip on each of the six numbers, that would be 35 chips won if you hit one of your numbers.

What are the “hot” and “cold" numbers in roulette?

There really is no such thing as ‘hot’ or ‘cold’ numbers playing roulette online although this gambler’s illusion can often seem very, very real! Anytime you’re playing a roulette game, there’s a digital read of recent numbers somewhere on your screen if playing online, or definitely on the table when playing live in a brick & mortar casino.

During some sessions, you may notice a ‘red storm’ or ‘black storm’, when the digital board sharply appears to favour one colour. Or, you may notice a specific number, say 34 or 7, pop up frequently.

The truth is, the probability of one roulette number popping up more than another, just isn’t there. Each roulette number has the same shot each round and has no effect on future spins. Still, if you have lucky numbers, by all means play them in roulette bets just as you likely do in the lotto!

What are roulette lucky numbers?

Roulette is a game of chance, so there are no luckier numbers, it is purely based on a random result. However, some numbers are more commonly bet on than others. The number 17 is the most common number to bet on, followed by 7. The number 7 is considered lucky by many people.

The number 17 is in the center of the roulette board and has delivered some staggering wins. Other prime numbers on the roulette wheel include 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 17, 19, 23, 29, and 31. However, mathematically speaking, all of the numbers on the roulette wheel have an equal chance

Can you bet on 35 numbers in roulette?

You certainly can, but why would you? As a gambler, it’s your goal to assess risk and reward. Even if you placed a split bet and divided the 36 numbers into pairs, it would be a very high risk betting strategy, as you still only win if the ball lands on one of those numbers and would return a minimal profit. If you want to cover off a larger set of numbers even money bets, outside bets like red/black, even/odd and high/low may help. They cover many numbers, with one bet, but keep in mind you’ve also got to be happy with a 1:1 payout!

How many black numbers in roulette?

On both the American and European roulette wheel there are 36 numbers plus a zero or two. Numbers 1 through 36 are either red or black, while the zero numbered pockets are green. On all roulette wheels, there are 18 black numbers: 15, 4, 2, 17, 6, 13, 11, 8, 10, 24, 33, 20, 31, 22, 29, 28, 35, 26. Note, these aren’t sequentially listed for you, we’ve covered them off as they appear around the the american roulette wheel.

How many red numbers in roulette?

Just as there are 18 black roulette numbers, there are 18 red roulette numbers. An even split of the 36 numbers as the zeros on the roulette wheel are green. On both the American and European roulette wheel, the 18 red roulette numbers are: 32, 19, 21, 25, 34, 27, 36, 30, 23, 5, 16, 1, 14, 9, 18, 7, 12, 3. And just to get you in game mode, we’ve listed these numbers as they appear around the French roulette wheel.

Can roulette dealers hit numbers?

The wheel is turning one way (at a variable speed as it's spun each time), the ball is set to spin in the other direction, and the wheel itself has metal ribs separating each number which act a bit like a bumper on a pinball machine. There’s a lot of variables at play that suggest that even money, a dealer could not intentionally hit a single number with any degree of repeatable accuracy.

What numbers hit the most in roulette?

Over time they’ll all come in at the same frequency, but that’s in the very long run of course. In the short term, anything can happen. The roulette wheel usually has a digital display of what’s ‘hot’ and what’s ‘cold’, but that is just a short term sample set. The law of large numbers will even things out over time.

Of course, as a player you won’t be there forever, so there certainly can be lucky numbers, repeat numbers, areas of the wheels that appear to be hitting with greater frequency. It’s an illusion, and it’s luck, but that’s why you’re there playing roulette!

Like with all casino games, may luck shine on you while you’re at the table!

Do roulette numbers add up to 666?

They indeed do - and you can trust us on this one as we’ve done the dirty calculator work for you. If you doubt us, go ahead and start adding up numbers 1 through 36 and you’ll indeed come up with 666. Some say this is the beastly sign of the devil, while others find this to be a supreme joke made by the mathematical geniuses behind gambling and the roulette tables.

If you’re a superstitious person, this may not bode well online roulette for you. Then again, if you are a superstitious gambler, chances are you’re not going to play roulette based on this fact anyways! But, you’d be missing out on one of the most beloved and entertaining table games of all time!

What is the highest number on a roulette wheel?

The highest number on a roulette wheel is 36. This is true for both European and American roulette.

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