Bingo is a game that everyone understands in its simplest form, whether they have played it or not before. Although there are different versions available to enjoy, everyone knows that they have to simply try and get all of the numbers that they have first to win.
The game is traditionally associated with an older audience, although that is stereo typically wrong in today’s world. With various online versions now possible to play, it is no longer consigned to bingo halls where it is perceived older players will typically go and enjoy the game.
Popular worldwide, learning about its history and origins is fascinating and can add some additional spice and excitement to this simple, fun game.
Bingo: History & Origins
Tying down the moment when bingo was first invented has proven difficult, as there is no concrete evidence. However, many do widely agree that its roots are from Italy and was first played in the 16th century, with the 1530s thought to be around the time of its creation. It is thought to originate from the lottery-based game that was played at the time, called “Il Giuoco del Lotto d’Italia”.
It quickly spread across Europe as it was not long before it became available to enjoy in France. It was called “Le Lotto”, and was known to be enjoyed by French aristocracy. From there, it made its way to Great Britain and other parts of Europe in the 18th century.
According to historians, it did not make its way to the America until the early 20th century, with it becoming popular in the 1920s when Hugh J. Ward created his own version of the game. He named it “Beano” and the phrase “Bingo” was coined as an accident after a player said it mistakenly instead of “Beano” when he collected a full house.
Since then, the game has continued to enjoy a huge amount of success, with the release of different variants helping to elevate the popularity that it enjoys today.
Summraized History:
| Year | Location | Event |
|---|---|---|
| 1530s | Italy | “Il Giuoco del Lotto d’Italia,” a lottery-based game, possibly serves as the precursor to Bingo. |
| 16th century | Italy | Bingo’s roots are speculated to originate during this time, although exact evidence is elusive. |
| 18th century | France | The game spreads to France, where it is known as “Le Lotto” and is popular among the aristocracy. |
| 18th century | Great Britain | Bingo arrives in Great Britain and begins to gain popularity across Europe. |
| Early 20th century | United States | Bingo makes its way to the United States, becoming popular in the 1920s with Hugh J. Ward’s version known as “Beano.” |
| 1929 | United States | Edwin S. Lowe, a toy salesman, encounters the game at a carnival and popularizes it further after hearing a player exclaim “Bingo” instead of “Beano.” |
| 1930s-40s | United States | Bingo halls start to appear across the United States, particularly during the Great Depression era, as a form of entertainment. |
| 1934 | United States | The Bingo Bugle, a publication dedicated to bingo news and information, is founded. |
| 1939 | United States | Bingo is used as a means of fundraising for churches and charities. |
| 1942 | United States | The United States government recognizes Bingo as a means of raising funds for the war effort. |
| 1950s | United States | Bingo becomes a popular pastime in senior citizen centers and retirement communities. |
| 1960s | United States | The legalization of commercial bingo halls in several states leads to a surge in popularity. |
| 1970s | United States | Electronic bingo machines are introduced, revolutionizing gameplay and enhancing accessibility. |
| 1990s | Global | Online bingo emerges, allowing players to enjoy the game remotely from anywhere with internet access. |
| 21st century | Global | Bingo continues to evolve with various themed versions and adaptations, maintaining its popularity worldwide. |
| Present | Global | Bingo remains a beloved game enjoyed by people of all ages, with numerous bingo halls, online platforms, and social events dedicated to it. |
What bingo variants are possible to enjoy?
As mentioned, bingo is no longer confined to the physical halls that it used to be widely played in. With the use of technology, people can now play online bingo with real money at their favorite casino sites, where they can also enjoy a new type of experience at the same time.
The technology available has allowed software providers to create new game play mechanics and alternatives to the classic game, thus helping to pique the interest of different types of players. Additionally, they can enjoy a different casino experience from the norm of playing slots or table games.
Among them, players are able to find:
90-Ball Bingo
90-Ball Bingo is the most common type of bingo fest game that can be found. As the name suggests, there are 90 numbered balls that can be drawn, and players are required to match as many numbers as they can on their bingo tickets. These tickets are usually printed in a formation of three rows and nine columns, and the objective is to get a line or a full house to win.
80-Ball & 75-Ball Bingo
Alternatively, there are versions that feature fewer numbers that have been widely popular. 80-Ball and 75-Ball Bingo are both common options that can be found, and can also differ in terms of gameplay from traditional 90-Ball Bingo. Players can form lines that are diagonal or vertical ledge due to the ticket layout, thus making it more interesting and potentially more intense than those that require a line to be formed vertically.
Alternative Bingo Variants
The three mentioned are arguably the most common to find, but there are a few others that can be found that can provide a different type of game play. Players are able to enjoy versions that include progressive jackpots (playing until a full house is obtained), versions that can consist of even fewer numbers, or games that have a certain method of winning, such as Swedish Bingo (5-Line Bingo), which requires players to fill as many lines as possible for the biggest rewards.
Final Thoughts
Bingo might be a game that is over 500 years old, but it remains a timeless classic. Many continue to enjoy it today in various ways, whether it be online or in traditional venues.
Numerous variants have helped it remain relevant and interesting today. Technology even plays a role in helping ensure the classic still remains as exciting as possible with each ticket played.
