Online bingo for beginners
When discussing casino games, bingo undoubtedly ranks among the most popular online casino games. When you check the lobby of most top online casinos, you will most likely find a couple of bingo titles to play. But what makes this game so popular, and how do you play it?
This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about online bingo. You will learn about the game's history, gameplay, choosing the best bingo sites and more.
History of bingo
The origins of bingo date back to the 1530s when the lottery game Lo Giuoco del Lotto D'Italia was created in Italy. After a few decades, the game transformed and moved around Europe until it reached Germany in 1988. When German educators discovered the game, they saw its learning potential and integrated it into classrooms to foster number and spelling skills.
Although we can't say for sure when bingo arrived in America, there are claims that it became a popular carnival game in the 1920s. The game was called "Beano" until it was mistakenly renamed by salesman Edwin S. Lowe to "Bingo", which is how we generally refer to the game today. The rulebook for the game was written by an American named Hugh J. Ward in 1933, who also copyrighted the name "Bingo".
Nowadays, bingo halls can be found anywhere, all across the globe. What's more, the invention of online casinos now makes it possible to play bingo games from the comfort of your home. You can choose from numerous bingo rooms to join at the best bingo sites where you can play alongside other players.
The objective of the game
Bingo is a fun game, and the objective is simple: to be the first player to line enough numbers vertically, horizontally, or diagonally based on the randomly drawn numbered balls. Once you've successfully lined up drawn numbers in one of the three directions, all that is left to do is to shout "BINGO" and collect your winnings.
How to play bingo
Similarly to online slots, the gameplay of bingo is pretty straightforward. It requires no technical skills or strategic thinking, which makes it the perfect game for beginners. Read the steps of playing bingo below.
1. Get a bingo scorecard
The first step to playing bingo is to get a bingo scorecard. This is your entry to the game, and you can choose to purchase one or several cards. If you are playing the game in person, you simply need to purchase a card from the cashier before the game starts, so you can join other players to play.
However, if you are playing online, you must join an online bingo casino site, deposit, load a bingo game, and buy a bingo scorecard.
Note: A typical bingo scorecard has 25 squares with random numbers. At the top of the card, you will see the word BINGO written, with each letter corresponding to each line. A typical bingo scorecard utilizes numbers between 1 and 75. In some bingo scorecards, the middle square will be marked FREE.
2. The random draw
Once each player has their bingo scorecard(s), the gameplay moves to the random draw. Here, numbered balls will be drawn randomly and called out; if you have the corresponding number on your scorecard, you mark it.
So, for example, if B2 is called out, you can check under the B column of your scorecard to mark 2 if you have it. Depending on the bingo game and the rules that apply, up to 32 numbers can be drawn randomly.
3. Winning in online bingo
You win playing online bingo if you can line numbers on your scorecard vertically, horizontally, or diagonally. The amount you win will be based on the paytable of the bingo game or bingo room.
Differences between online bingo and land-based bingo
Online and land-based bingo share many similarities, including similar rules and gameplay mechanics. However, there are also notable differences between the two formats of the game.
If you are already familiar with playing physical bingo games, you won't have any problem playing the online version – in fact, it can feel even easier as the software might mark your numbers automatically.
However, one major difference between both games is that the land-based version requires choosing someone to be the caller. In the virtual version, a computer algorithm randomly generates numbers and displays them on your screen. Naturally, there is no need to audibly announce "BINGO" when you achieve a winning scorecard while playing online.
Note: Online, you can also get started with free bingo games to practice how the gameplay works without risking any money.
Choosing the best bingo site for you
If you wish to try a round of bingo online, you need to find a website that offers the game. This can either be done through free bingo games or real money bingo rooms offered at online gambling sites.
In order to ensure an optimal online bingo experience, it is crucial to select a reputable bingo site. To find the best bingo site for you, you need to think about your personal preferences and consider factors such as the following:
- The bingo selection/rooms – The number of games to try as well as their themes, prices etc.
- Bonuses and offers – You might find some sites offering bonuses and promotions specific to bingo games.
- Payment methods – Since you'll need to deposit and withdraw money when playing online for real money, you should find a bingo site that accepts your preferred banking option.
- Other factors – Some other factors you can also consider include customer support services, mobile compatibility, fairness of the terms and conditions, and so on.
FAQs
Can I win money playing bingo online?
Yes. When you play real money online bingo, you can win money if you can line up enough drawn numbers vertically, horizontally, or diagonally on your scorecard.
Do bingo sites offer bonuses?
Yes. Many top bingo sites offer bonuses like match bonuses and cashback deals. However, you must fulfill the wagering requirements and other applicable terms and conditions to withdraw money from these offers.
Can I play bingo on mobile?
Yes. The best bingo online casinos optimize their platform to work on mobile. Some even have a native mobile app you can install on your device.