It can take different forms and be played in different ways, but the principle remains the same: the player has a card with numbers on it. The organizer or presenter selects numbers at random. If all of the chosen numbers match the numbers on a player’s card, that player is the winner.
However, simply winning is not enough; they must inform the world by shouting “Bingo!” This is your ticket to the full jackpot. Discover the thrill of playing at an online bingo casino, where you can win incredible prizes while having fun with friends and other players.
Bingo begins
The game has roots that date back to the 16th century. In 1530, this was an Italian game called “Lo Giuoco del Lotto D’Italia”. Then, in the 18th century, the game “Le Lotto” spread to France, becoming a game for rich people, and to Germany, acquiring a new twist: there the game was used as a tool for studying history, grammar and mathematics.
Interesting fact: the word “bingo” itself was a total mistake! North American players, when playing bingo, placed beans on the sides of the cards to indicate the corresponding numbers.
And if they won, they shouted “beano” (from the word bean, beans). Toy salesman Edwin S. Lowe misheard the word and began calling the game “bingo.” It is under this name that the game is known in the world today. But this happened at the beginning of the 20th century, and the history of bingo began long before that.
Types of bingo
Classic bingo is a fun game played with 75 numbered balls. The number of balls in the game affects the players’ chances of winning: the probability of winning is greater if fewer balls are used.
The popularity of Bingo has led to the creation of several variations. These variations not only differ in the number of balls used (30, 90, 80), but also redefine the average game length and winning patterns. In some cases, they even modify or completely change the rules while maintaining the beloved lottery style of play.
Here’s a quick overview of all types of bingo.
75 ball bingo
A classic version of the game that is widely popular around the world, including Brazil, USA and Canada. The 5×5 cards used in the game have 25 fields, of which only 24 contain numbers. The central square remains empty. The 75 numbers in the game are divided into 5 groups of 15, each group corresponding to a letter in the word B I N G O. Below each letter on the card are 5 of the 15 numbers.
30 ball bingo
This variant of bingo is known as “fast bingo” due to its fast gameplay and shorter duration. It is ideal for people with busy schedules and limited time. With just 30 balls and a compact 3×3 bingo card, the game is non-stop and every moment counts.
90 ball bingo
This type of bingo is the most popular in the UK. This popular version uses 3×5 cards, each containing 15 numbers. It is distinguished by unique rules that introduce additional winning combinations. Players aim for two lines, four corners and the coveted full house, adding an extra level of excitement to the game.
80 ball bingo
This 80-ball version of bingo puts a twist on the traditional British version. Playing with 4×4 maps provides faster gameplay. With the ability to form winning combinations using horizontal, vertical and diagonal lines, as well as unique patterns such as the “square” formed by the four central numbers, this option allows you to build your strategies. Players can also pursue two- and three-line combinations, as well as ultimately achieving a four-line full house.
Bingo Variations
Bingo has evolved and gained popularity across the world due to its simplicity and endless entertainment. It has expanded beyond gaming and now comes in various forms that appeal to different types of players. Below, we will highlight the seven most popular bingo varieties known in the world, but the list is not limited to them.
U-Pick-Em Bingo
Just like the Italian lottery and Chinese keno, guessing takes center stage in this bingo variant. Instead of receiving a pre-printed card, players can choose their own numbers. This adds anticipation and customization to the game, making it more fun and unique.
Deadly Bingo
Deadly Bingo adds an interesting twist to the game: the winner is the person who calls all their numbers last. This change in victory conditions extends the duration of the game, forcing players to anticipate victory for longer.
Bingo bonanza
Bonanza is a quick variation on the classic 75-ball bingo. Instead of starting from scratch, players are given 43 numbers to start with. The jackpot increases as the game progresses, adding more anticipation and excitement to the game.
Power outage
Blackout, or Coverall, is a variant of bingo where players have to cover all the boxes to win. These games tend to be long and the jackpot usually increases with each round in which there is no winner.
Math bingo
Did you realize that math can be fun and gamified? Instead of simply calling out numbers in a game of bingo, teachers present students with exciting math problems. By solving formulas and equations, players learn the numbers they need to mark on their bingo cards, turning boring lessons into a fun game.
Bingo horse racing
This is a unique combination of horse racing and traditional bingo. This variation can be played by up to 15 players, with each player receiving a card similar to a bingo card. But here’s the kicker: Instead of numbers, each square on the map represents an exciting horse racing scenario waiting to happen. After executing the script, the corresponding square is highlighted.
Bingo on Facebook
As the name suggests, this type of bingo is played on the social media platform Facebook. This allows players to not only enjoy the game, but also be part of a community with common interests.
Bingo outside the casino
Interestingly, what is now considered part of the gaming industry was once a popular social game. Bingo has been around for so long that it has become an entertainment staple across the world.
