Bingo is a well-loved game across the world, however, the style varies in different countries. In US and UK, there are notable differences between their Bingo-ball styles. You can play the 90-ball in the UK Bingo, while the 75-ball is played in the US Bingo. Aside from these, there are other distinctions between the two.
So, before digging deeper, here's a detailed explanation of each bingo style.
UK Bingo
British Bingo is also called the 90-Ball Bingo that has 27 spaces in a 9 by 3 grid. The columns have 5 numbers and 4 blank spaces whereas the card has space for three numbers in each column. Each column has a set of numbers that can be contained within it. To explain better, it should be arranged like this:
- 01-09 in the 1st column
- 10-19 in the 2nd column
- 20-29 in the 3rd column
- 30-39 in the 4th column
- 40-49 in the 5th column
- 50-59 in the 6th column
- 60-69 in the 7th column
- 70-79 in the 8th column
- 80-90 in the 9th column
The bingo tickets are made in strips of 6 to let all numbers from 1-60 emerge in all 6 tickets. So, if you opt to purchase the whole six strips, each number is included. Moreover, you'll mark each number until someone shouts "House". However, if you only have one ticket, your chance of winning is 1 out of 6 in response to your number.
There can be up to 3 winners in each round so you can win in a one-line-bingo as well as the house bingo.
So, how can you win this game? Here are different variations.
1. One-Line-Bingo
The first one requires you to cover a single row on any ticket.
2. Two-Line Bingo
The second variation covers all numbers on 2 out of the 3 rows on any ticket.
3. Full House
Lastly, the full house covers all numbers across any ticket. This win gives the maximum payout.
If you're playing a hall and won a combination, you have to shout "BINGO." Then, the staff will proceed to process your winning combination. Once the end of the rounds, you can throw your ticket and prepare for the next game.
US Bingo
In the USA, 75-Ball Bingo is the best-loved bingo style. The card for each game has 24 numbers with 5 columns divided into 25 squares. Thus, if you want, you can mark the middle square right away since it's a free space.
The word BINGO is seen on of top of the card. Each column has a designated number placed under a letter, and the card should hold the following for each:
- The B column houses five random numbers ranging from 1 through 15.
- The I column houses five numbers ranging from 16 through 30.
- The N column houses four numbers (with one black space) ranging from 31 to 45.
- The G column houses five numbers ranging from 46 to 60.
- The O column houses five numbers ranging from 61 to 75.
The mechanics are simple. You have to identify the number called and mark it on your card. To win the 75-bingo, you have to create a single line, either across, down, or diagonally. However, there are 300 patterns available. The popular patterns used are;
1. Diagonal
The first pattern is diagonal, which requires you to complete 2 full lines.
2. "X"
The second type requires you to complete 2 diagonal lines that form an "X."
3. Blackout
Lastly, the Blackout demands you to cover all spots.
Aside from these, you can also take note of these common winning patterns; The gimmicky patterns include the shapes of an airplane, turtle, and champagne. Not only that, but there are also letters like "L," "Z," and "T." Finally, the tricky ones are the form of a ladder, triple bingo, and sputnik.
Differences Between US Bingo and UK Bingo
Given the specifics of each bingo style, you can now learn more about the difference between the two. First is the card orientation. In a 90-Bingo Ball in the UK, each card has a 3X9 grid containing 27 squares with 12 blank spaces. In contrast to the 75-Bingo Ball in the US, wherein the card has a 5X5 grid with 24 numbers. So, if you're used to the 90-Bingo Ball, you'll need some time to adjust yourself when playing the opposite Bingo style.
Secondly, in 90-Ball allows you to win thrice or have three winners in one game. The same is not true for a 75-Ball that allows only one winner per single game.
Lastly, you have to know that 90-Ball is played at a faster pace compared to 75-Ball. As a result, the former becomes challenging for beginners, while the latter allows a beginner to adjust better. There are sites where so you can get used to the style without having to risk any money.
Similarities Between US Bingo and UK Bingo
Aside from the differences between 90 and 75-Ball Bingo, there are also similarities worth noting. First, is you can play both variants online. There are various online gambling sites where you can play for actual money. Since online gambling sites are rampant, it's much more flexible to play both bingo styles.
Furthermore, the prizes for these Ball Bingo are increasing. Players need to get a coverall and win it before the jackpot if they want to participate in the bingo game.
The difference between British bingo and American bingo includes challenge, amount of prizes, and the pacing for each game. If you're still undecided, you can give both bingo styles a go.
This article was published on January 22, 2022, and last updated on July 1, 2022.