For many, the idea of bingo resonates perhaps most clearly with halls in towns across Britain, a symbol of raucous social entertainment prominent throughout the ‘60s and ‘70s.
Even though the classic, in-person game has shown a steady decline in popularity since the turn of the century, bingo is still popular. In fact, bingo generates revenue worth hundreds of millions of pounds every year.
Most players have turned to the online form of the game, which keeps its momentum strong. If you’re thinking of playing soon, it’s worth knowing how the game has changed in form but kept its appeal.
What is bingo and how does it work?
The game of bingo was once one of the most in-demand forms of entertainment. It’s a social game that first gained momentum in the 1920s, most popular in the UK and the USA before peaking in the 1960s. Bingo works like a type of lottery. It works as follows:
- All players receive a game card or multiple cards, known as dabbers, which usually have a grid of randomly distributed numbers. Many games start with 15 numbers on a card, but this varies according to the specific game being played.
- During the game, random numbers are selected and announced by the caller. The players must then cross off (or dab) any numbers on their card as and when they’re called.
- Prizes are awarded for horizontal and vertical lines on a card, and if a player dabs all their numbers on the card, they shout “FULL HOUSE!”. This enviable result often gets a bigger prize to the player.
Bingo’s evolution: What is online bingo?
Bingo’s ongoing popularity can be explained by the online version of the game.
Online bingo takes everything fantastic and familiar about the classic game and makes it simpler, more accessible, and more interactive. Some websites feature live chat functions too, which is one of the biggest reasons why online bingo is a great space to play with friends and meet like-minded people in every game.
Here are our key takeaways:
- It’s still social: Some bingo players worry that moving to the online version of the game could take away the social element, but that’s not the case. Online bingo games offer live chat functions, special offers and community prizes to maintain a sense of togetherness.
- It can be played anywhere: You don’t need to get dressed up and head to the same hall anymore. Online bingo can be played on a computer, laptop or mobile device, meaning that wherever you go, you can take the thrill of the game with you.
- It’s secure: There’s no reason to worry about your personal information when you play bingo online. Reputable bingo websites offer SSL protection to assure you that your details will be stored securely, no matter how you prefer to play.
Overview: Bingo is safer than ever
In the UK, it’s a legal requirement for bingo websites to be registered with the Gambling Commission. That means all sites comply to strict trading standards to help keep you and other players safe.
With the increasing variety and accessibility of the game, it’s clear that bingo is here to stay. In just a few clicks, you’ll be ready to play.
