Bingo is one of the most popular social gambling games, known for its simplicity and suspense. It is played in arcades, in old people's homes, on television and online. It is a combination of luck, speed and attention. Below, we take a look at basic rules of bingo, game versions, and useful tipshow to get started.
Basic rules of bingo
1. Playing cards
Each player receives bingo cardwhich is a grid with numbers. A classic American bingo card has:
- 5 columns marked with B-I-N-G-O,
- 5 lines,
- 25 boxes in total (usually a free box in the centre).
Example of a card:
mathematicaCopyEdit B I N G O
12 27 33 46 62
8 29 -- 50 70
4 18 * 55 68
15 23 38 47 73
1 30 40 59 66
(* indicates a free field)
2. Numbers drawn
The host or a computer program randomly draws numbers (e.g. "B-12", "G-47") and pronounces them.
3. Marking of numbers
When a number is drawn, players look at their cards and, if they find the number, they tag (e.g. with a token, felt-tip pen, cross).
4. Call "Bingo!"
The first player to mark a predetermined winning combination (e.g. horizontal bar, vertical bar, diagonal or the whole card), shouts "Bingo!". The card is then checked and if it is marked correctly, that player wins.
The most common winning combinations
| Combination | Description |
|---|---|
| One line | Horizontal, vertical or diagonal line |
| Two lines | Two solid horizontal lines |
| Four corners | All four corner fields on the card are marked |
| The Cross | Vertical and horizontal lines intersecting |
| Full card | All fields ticked - the so-called "Blackout" |
| Designed patterns | Heart, X, square, etc. - usually in online bingo |
Variants of bingo
1. American Bingo (75 numbers)
The most widely used version in USA and online. It has a 5×5 grid with up to 75 possible numbers (from 1 to 75).
2. British Bingo (90 numbers)
It is used mainly in the UK and Europe. The card has 3 rows and 9 columns, with 15 numbers. The game is slower, but allows for more winning phases:
- first line,
- two lines,
- the entire card.
3. Online bingo
The player plays via an app or a website. Number marking is automated and often played live with a host. There are special room effects, bonuses and chat between players.
Tips for beginners
- Start with as few cards as possible - it's better to play carefully than to get lost in a mass of numbers.
- Choose the version that suits you - American bingo is faster, while British bingo is more traditional.
- Be alert and fast - Missing a number can mean losing out.
- Use automatic tagging in web bingingif keeping track of numbers is stressing you out.
- Enjoy the game - bingo is first and foremost a fun, social experience, not just a prize hunt.
Is bingo gambling?
Yes. Bingo is gambling if it is played for prize money or a deposit. In Slovenia, it can be organised by licensed organisers, e.g. Lottery of Slovenia. Online versions are often organised abroad - caution should be exercised here taxation of winningsif paid from abroad (see article on gambling taxes).
Conclusion
Bingo is a game that connects generations - from event halls to online platforms. The rules are simple, but the feeling of winning when you shout "Bingo!" is always special. Even though it's basically a game of luck, attention and correct choice of version can affect your chances. Whether you're playing for fun or for a prize - the goal is to enjoy the game.
