You may only be beginning to learn the ins and outs of bingo. Alternatively, you might have a lot of experience playing bingo and other casino games at your favorite gambling venue. No matter your experience, you’ll immediately note that there are differences between live bingo and online bingo games. Take a look at bingo, where it came from and how it differs depending on where you play it.
A Short History of Bingo
Bingo’s origins can be traced back to 16th-century Italy where it began as “Lo Giuoco del Lotto D’Italia,” a lottery-style game that is still played today. In the 18th century the game spread to France where it became known as “Le Lotto” and was primarily enjoyed by the upper class.
In the 19th century, the game found its way to Germany, where it was used as an educational tool to help children learn mathematics, spelling and history. Around the same time, it began to be played in various forms throughout Europe and North America.
The modern form of the game has its roots in the early 20th century in the United States. A toy salesman named Edwin S. Lowe stumbled upon a carnival game called “Beano” in Georgia. The game involved players covering numbered squares on their cards in response to randomly drawn numbers and yelling “Beano” when a row was completed. Seeing the potential in this game, Lowe took it back to New York, refined the rules and renamed it “Bingo”.
Bingo gained popularity during the Great Depression as a cheap and easy way to pass the time. Churches and charities began using it as a fundraiser. By the 1940s, Bingo had become a popular game at social gatherings and was being played all across America.
How To Play Bingo
Before discussing the differences between live bingo and online, it’s important to understand how to play bingo because in both live and online games the core elements remain the same. Numbers are chosen at random, which you then mark off on a card with bingo daubers. There are some differences between the US and UK versions of the game, which are the two most popular types.
The US version uses 75 balls and a 5×5 card which has a “free” number in the center, making it easier to complete a row that crosses over it. To win, rows can be completed horizontally, vertically or diagonally. In some instances, special winning patterns can also help you clinch victory. The player who completes a single row wins and the game is over.
The UK version uses 90 balls and a 3×9 card which has five numbers placed at random in each row, with players having to complete a row of numbers horizontally to win. In this version, it’s possible for the player to win a prize for each row of numbers they complete, with one row earning you the smallest prize and three rows (also known as a full house,) the biggest prize.
Now that you understand how the two most popular versions of the game work, here’s a look at the differences between the live and online versions of the game.
Live Bingo
Here’s a look at live bingo, sometimes also referred to as offline bingo. This is the type of game you play in person and the most popular place to play it is in bingo halls, although it can be played in any location where you have enough space to accommodate the players. This could include an outdoor venue or more traditional indoor locations such as a community center hall or even your living room.
The live version of the game is played in the traditional way. A caller will draw numbers at random from a bingo ball cage or some other kind of container, such as a bag, that prevents them from seeing the number on the balls. They will then announce the number that’s been selected, which players will then mark off on their cards. A winner is declared once the players have met the winning criteria, which depend on whether you’re playing the US or UK version of the game.
As with any version of the game, there are advantages and disadvantages to playing the live version of the game.
Advantages
These are some of the most obvious advantages of playing bingo in-person.
A More Social and Competitive Atmosphere
There’s something to be said for sitting next to or near someone who’s enjoying playing a game as much as you are. Whether you’re out and playing with your own friends, chatting with people you met at the game or simply enjoying the vibe with other people, this social environment is hard to duplicate online.
Immediate Win Payout
When you win in a game of live bingo, all you need to do is claim your prize from the venue or organizers of the game. Unless you’ve won a massive prize that they need to deposit into your bank account, you can walk away from the game with whatever winnings you have in your pocket.
A More Tactile Experience
Much like reading a physical book, there’s something to be said for holding a dauber in your hand and marking off numbers on a real card as the caller shouts out the numbers.
Disadvantages
Some of the most apparent disadvantages of playing bingo live, include the following.
Less Choice When It Comes to Games
If you like a bit of variety when you play bingo, you’re going to be limited to whatever games are being hosted at a hall or event. You’re also probably going to have to wait a while if you miss the scheduled start of a game.
You Can Miss Bingo Calls
If you’re distracted or don’t hear a number being called because of how loud or busy the venue is, you may miss a number. If you’re just there for the social aspect of the game, this may not bother you too much, but if you’re there to win, you’re likely to find this frustrating.
Games Are More Expensive
When you play a live game, the game organizer may have to worry about venue costs such as rental, electricity, paying staff or people to host the game, to name but a few of the obvious expenses. You also need to think about other costs that you may incur along the way, such as food and travel. Once you add up all the “hidden” costs, you’re definitely going to pay more to play a live game of bingo.
These Games Are Slower
A common concern is how long a bingo game takes to finish. When you’re playing a live game, there’s no getting around the fact these games will take longer to finish. From the caller choosing a number and calling it out to verifying if everyone has heard the call, before finally moving onto the next number, you’re definitely going to be spending more time playing this way.
Online Bingo
The second way of playing the game is online, that is, bingo played via the internet. You can play through dedicated bingo sites on your laptop, desktop computer or through a mobile device such as a tablet or smartphone. You may also discover that certain sites have developed dedicated apps for mobile devices and may offer you a better experience if you use them instead of the website. These sites often allow you to play online bingo games for money in the USA, although some sites also allow you to play for free without any potential prizes.
Unlike live bingo where the numbers are drawn by a person, in the online version numbers are selected using random number generator (RNG) software. These numbers are announced by the RNG running the game, which players then mark off on their online bingo cards. If you’re worried about missing a number, you can set the game to mark off numbers automatically for you.
Read on to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of this gaming experience so that you know what you’re getting into when you play virtual bingo.
Advantages
There are some clear advantages to playing bingo online that every person who’s ever played online will agree with.
It’s Incredibly Easy and Convenient
Whether you’re at home in your pajamas or catching the bus on the way to work, it’s really easy to join a game from your computer or mobile device. With so many people playing bingo online, you can find a game within minutes at virtually any time of the day.
So Many Games to Choose From: When you play bingo online, you don’t only have to choose between 75-ball and 90-ball bingo games. There are a variety of other versions you can enjoy, such as 40-ball bingo. Whatever version you prefer, you’re likely to find a game you really enjoy when you play online.
Free and Cheap Games With Great Promotions
While you may not be able to win a prize playing a free game, you can still play them if you’re in the mood. If you’re interested in games with prizes, you’ll find a wide range of games with different costs, allowing you to choose what suits you (and your wallet) best. You’ll also be able to enjoy playing more, thanks to the amazing bingo promotions that many online bingo sites have to offer.
They Have a Social Element As Well
While talking to someone online may not be the same as chatting in a hall, it’s still a great way to connect with other people who enjoy this wonderful game of chance. There’s also the opportunity to engage with people you wouldn’t normally meet, as players from around the country (and even the world) may be playing on your favorite site at the same time.
Never Miss a Number
The best online bingo sites have tools that automatically mark off matching numbers as you play, so you’ll never miss a number (and a potential win.)
Games Are Faster
Much of the online experience is automated, so games tend to end quicker than their offline counterparts. This is great for players who want to enjoy a quick game when they have a short break or those interested in a more competitive experience. If this sounds like a negative to you, don’t worry, you can find slower online games to suit your speed or choose another game since they’re so affordable.
Disadvantages
Many people who play bingo online will relate to some of the following disadvantages.
You Need Stable Internet Access
While many people do enjoy stable high-speed internet connections, there are some who aren’t so lucky. If you’re going to have a good time online, you’ll need a stable service with the requisite speed.
The Social Element Is Not Quite the Same
Don’t be fooled, with internet speeds improving, some sites can offer even better online experiences which are close to the real deal, but they still won’t be able to recreate the energy of playing in the same room as other people — not yet.
Payouts Can Take Longer
Depending on the site and how much you win, it may take a bit longer for you to receive your winnings, at least compared to claiming your prize at an offline game. This is because money needs to be withdrawn from your site account, which takes a bit of time to clear.
Play the Best Online Bingo Games at Borgata Bingo
At Borgata Bingo, New Jersey residents can try their luck on a range of exciting games, including the classic 75-ball and 90-ball bingo games as well as jackpot slots, Slingo and many more exciting titles.
See what incredible gameplay is on offer when you play online bingo at any of the incredible bingo rooms. Download the app via iOS or Android or register online to join the party at Borgata Bingo.