What is Bingo?
Bingo is a game of chance where players match their bingo cards to corresponding random numbers. Numbers are randomly generated and called out by the announcer or shown on an electronic board. Numbers can be randomized by using a wind chamber to toss balls with a printed number around (one eventually goes into a tube) or with a computer using a random number generator program.
Matched numbers must form a specific pattern to win, with straight lines being the most common. While numbers are normally used as matches, there are many games similar to Bingo that use pictures instead. Mexico’s iconic game, “Loteria” (meaning Lottery) is such an example. Instead of “B7” you may match a picture of a deer or a parrot.
Despite bingo differences around the world, the overall concept is similar. Match and get a pattern to win. What’s usually different is the layout. Bingo players in the United States use cards with 25 squares laid out in five columns wide and five rows high. Bingo is spelt out at the top with each letter having its own column. Any number from 1 to 75 can appear on the card. Each column has 15 possible numbers that can only appear in its column. For example, 16 will never appear outside of column I. The middle row has a “Free Space”. It’s like having a number called in that spot. Winners can range from the first to complete a straight line to the first player to cover every number on their Bingo card.
Bingo players in the United Kingdom, have a different layout for their ticket. A typical card is three rows high and nine columns wide for a total of 27 spaces. Each row has five numbers but four blank spots. This means a normal ticket will have 15 numbers.
Randomizing the numbers is done similarly to randomizing numbers in the States. As each number is called, players will mark the spot. Usually this is done with a “dabber” which leaves a brightly colored highlight on the card. Winning combinations vary but the can include: A line of five numbers, completing two lines, or even covering all 15 numbers with your lucky dabber.
Although Bingo is extremely profitable, you’re bound to see it more at your local fundraising events than in a casino. Its high profit makes it a perfect fundraiser. So go ahead! Play a game of bingo, and you may just be helping your church, group, or favorite charity.
Sort of makes playing a bit more fun, doesn’t it?
