*This is a collaborative post
Are you looking for a new game to play alone or with friends? Bingo could be the answer! Discover why this iconic activity has been a national favourite for 100 years.
1. Straightforward gameplay
One of the main reasons bingo spread like wildfire through the UK during the 20th century is it’s easy to pick up and play, making it widely accessible. No skills or tactics are required – it’s a classic game of chance where everyone is on an even footing whether you’re a newcomer or seasoned player.
90 numbered balls are kept in a cage and drawn out one by one by a caller. Players have unique 9x3 grids with 15 numbers and 12 spaces and must mark off these numbers as they’re called. The first to reach a full horizontal line gets a prize and the first to a full house wins the game.
2. A great social experience
Another reason why bingo was so popular is that it’s a great social experience. It took over working men’s clubs in the 1920s and community halls in the ‘50s after WWII. Following the introduction of the Betting Gaming and Lotteries Act in 1963, at its peak popularity in the ‘60s and ‘70s dedicated halls were built just to host bingo sessions. These venues were considered central to the community and are still a great way to make friends with locals.
The lively and welcoming atmosphere of the bingo halls is legendary and continues today. Go alone and chat with strangers or take a group of friends and soak up the buzz together. There are plenty of opportunities to chat between the sessions and separate areas for a having a good gossip while rounds are running.
3. Affordable with prizes
Many popular pastimes are expensive, requiring equipment or materials and perhaps lessons to learn the necessary skills. Bingo is an affordable alternative, with tickets averaging around £20 per person. Your ticket should include several rounds split into sessions as well as refreshments.
You also have the chance to win prizes which range from small items to significant sums of money. Any winnings you receive from a bingo game are tax-free, too!
4. Various ways to play
These days, you don’t have to head to a hall to play bingo if you don’t want to. You can find online bingo games on dedicated websites from licenced providers that you can play at any time. Some companies even have apps you can download to your smartphone for games on the go.
Online bingo games follow the traditional structure but with a twist such as fun themes like Deal or No Deal. You can also take advantage of other handy features such as live chat and the auto-marking function so you never miss a number!
