The Chinese zodiac is a big theme at Uptown Aces for the past 12 months as we have seen dozens of new Asian-themed game releases. Most of these new slots are inspired by the Far-East’s Zodiac and mythology.

The Chinese Zodiac plays a very big role in modern day China. The Zodiac has been used for centuries as a guide for making big decisions.

Believe it or not, the Chinese Zodiac is influencing demographics, world economy, relationships and political decisions in China. So, what’s the fuzz about the zodiac? We have gathered a series of fun facts about the Chinese Zodiac, so you can appreciate the depth and tradition behind this ancient practice.

It’s not about the stars

As opposed to the Greco-Roman 12-sign zodiac, the Chinese version is not inspired by astrology. It stems from ancient Chinese philosophy. It is also a 12 sign zodiac, but it represents years rather than star constellations. Each sign is represented by an animal.

¼ of the world’s population

A quarter of the world’s population is using the Zodiac to guide their lives. They use it to name newborns, to decide whom to marry, when to give birth, and determining attitudes between one another. The Chinese believe several animal signs get better along together than with others. Parents choose specific years to give birth, in order to make a harmonious zodiac sign family.

Romantic couples are also influenced by the Zodiac. Some signs are thought to be highly compatible, while there are others that are considered natural enemies.

The power of the Dragon

The sign of the Dragon is very auspicious, symbolizing power, wealth and prosperity. Many Chinese parents dream of having a child in the year of the Dragon. In 2012, the year of the Dragon, birth rates increased 5% in China, Hong Kong and Taiwan; an equivalent of 1 million extra babies that year!

The Tiger and the Goat

At the other end of the Zodiac are the unlucky signs: the Tiger and the Goat. During these years, child birthrates are lower in Asia. Surprisingly, most of the top 300 wealthiest persons in the world are born under precisely these two signs!

Zodiac Sign Index

Many Chinese business people make their decisions based on this index. These decisions are making a big impact not only in China but also in the world. China plays an important role in the global economy and politics; it is thus becoming very important to understand the impact of the Chinese Zodiac and other Chinese traditions.