Bingo has seemingly been here since the beginning, evolving from its incredibly basic form into the many wonderful variations we have access to today. There are now countless different bingo types, all with their own twists and unique properties.
However, there are only a few popular varieties, with the rest just being sub-genres of these varieties or only having slight alterations.
Below, we explore the most popular varieties, discussing how they work and what makes them different from other bingo types. Let’s get right into it.
75-ball Bingo
If you’ve played bingo in the United States, then chances are you’ve encountered 75-ball bingo. It’s the most popular version stateside, and its format is slightly different from other versions you’ll find around the world.
In 75-ball bingo, players use a 5×5 grid containing 25 squares. One of those squares, the middle one, is a “free space”, meaning it’s automatically marked off. The game itself uses 75 numbered balls, hence the name, and the goal is to match the numbers on your card with the numbers being called out. Players aim to complete specific patterns, which could include a straight line, diagonal or even more complex shapes like diamonds or corners.
What makes 75-ball bingo exciting is the variety of patterns you need to achieve to win. The game keeps you on your toes since every round could call for a different shape to mark off on your card. It’s straightforward but engaging, especially if you love the feeling of chasing down that elusive bingo.
Online Bingo
Bingo has moved into the digital age, with online bingo offering players the chance to enjoy all these variations and more anytime and anywhere. Whether you prefer 75-ball, 90-ball or something in between, the internet has allowed bingo to evolve into a global game with thousands of players logging on every day.
Many online bingo platforms also introduce unique variations on the classic formula. From themed rooms based on popular TV shows to special bonus rounds and jackpot games, the variety in online bingo is endless.
Plus, with the ability to play multiple cards at once, the excitement ramps up even further. It’s the perfect blend of tradition and technology, making bingo more accessible and entertaining than ever before.
If you are thinking of giving online bingo a try, just make sure to only use trusted bingo sites. While it’s unlikely that you will be outright scammed, although it is a possibility, your information could be stolen and used without your permission if you use an untrusted site. This is why you should always thoroughly research a bingo site before you begin playing. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
90-ball Bingo
While 75-ball bingo dominates in the US, across the pond you’ll find 90-ball bingo reigning supreme. This variety is particularly popular in the UK and throughout Europe. Instead of the 5×5 grid used in 75-ball bingo, 90-ball bingo is played on a 9×3 grid. The card has three rows, and each row contains five numbers and four blank spaces.
In 90-ball bingo, the numbers called out range from 1 to 90. The game’s structure is designed around three potential winning stages: one line, two lines and a full house. If you’re the first to mark off a complete horizontal line on your card, you win the first prize. Mark off two lines, and you’re looking at a bigger win.
However, the ultimate goal is to fill all the numbers on your card, which is also known as a “full house”, for the top prize.
What makes 90-ball bingo so appealing is its simplicity and extended playtime. Since there are three ways to win in a single game, there’s a greater sense of anticipation, and it’s easy to get hooked. With more opportunities to win a prize, it’s no wonder that 90-ball bingo has such a dedicated fan base around the world.
Bingo U-Pick Em
Bingo U-Pick Em offers a modern twist on the classic game we all know and love. Instead of being handed a card with random numbers, in this variation, players get to pick their own numbers before the game starts. It’s somewhat akin to a lottery, where you’re choosing which digits you believe will be called.
The concept is the same in terms of marking off the numbers as they’re called out, but the strategy here shifts.
By choosing your own numbers, there’s a feeling of more control over the outcome, which adds a unique psychological aspect to the game. It’s a fun alternative for players who want to be more involved in the initial stage of the game.
It also offers a nice change for those who love bingo but want to try something a little different. Unlike other variations that only change the core concept slightly, this variation feels like a fresh coat of paint. It can provide a nice respite and change things up enough to feel like something new while still being familiar enough for participants to feel comfortable.
Conclusion
We hope we have been able to give you a better insight into the main differences between popular bingo varieties. There are others, but these are the types that are the most popular. Other variants are typically just slight alterations of the types listed above, usually having a different number of balls or featuring a small new mechanic to spice things up.
Bingo can be incredibly fun, and because of its social aspect, it’s usually not as harmful as other forms of gambling. However, it’s vital that you know how to budget before you play bingo so you don’t negatively impact your finances. Additionally, if you do feel like bingo is beginning to impact your life, don’t be afraid to seek help. Have fun!
