There’s been a revolution in the world of bingo.

And this bingo boom isn’t just about traditional bingo halls – it has expanded into all sorts of new areas, attracting a new audience.

Who would have thought it? Bingo is suddenly cool.

Why is bingo booming?

Bingo sites online now allow people to play from anywhere at any time.

Some social media influencers and celebrities have even hosted games. Bingo is now being streamed on platforms like Twitch and YouTube.

Bingo is being incorporated into themed nights, like music bingo (where players mark off songs on their cards) or TV show-themed bingo.

The new bingo games

The bingo world has exploded.There are now a huge variety of game types. Classic versions of bingo remain popular alongside many new and eccentric variations. Here’s a breakdown of the different bingos you can find:

Classic Bingo

75-Ball Bingo

The most common form of bingo in North America is played on a 5×5 grid with 24 numbers and a free space in the center. Players aim to complete specific patterns, which can range from a straight line to patterns like an X or a blackout (covering all numbers).

90-Ball Bingo

This is popular in the UK, Australia, and parts of Europe. It’s played on a 9×3 grid with 15 numbers per card. There are typically three chances to win in each game: one line, two lines, and a full house (all numbers on the card).

80-Ball Bingo

This new hybrid between 75-ball and 90-ball bingo is gaining popularity online. It’s played on a 4×4 grid.

30-Ball Bingo (Speed Bingo)

A fast-paced version of the gameon a 3×3 grid with only nine numbers.

The first player to cover all numbers wins. Games last just a few minutes.

Modern bingo variants

Pattern Bingo

Pattern players need to mark off specific patterns on cards rather than just a line or full house. These can be anything from letters, numbers, shapes or even themed designs, like hearts for Valentine’s Day or Christmas trees.

Music Bingo

Instead of numbers, songs are played.Players have cards with song titles.

Shotgun Bingo

Also known as “Rapid Bingo,” this is an extremely fast variant.Numbers are called out so quickly the game is over in a few minutes.

Blackout Bingo

The objective is to cover every single square on the card.

U-Pick-Em Bingo

Players choose their own numbers in advance.

Bonanza Bingo

A large number of balls are drawn together at the start (perhaps 43 balls in a 75-ball game).Players mark their cards.

The game then continues with more balls being called until a player hits the jackpot.

Death Bingo

This is an inverted version of traditional bingo.The objective is to avoid completing a bingo and the last person to get a bingo wins.

Team Bingo

This is social version of bingo.Players work in teams.

They mark off numbers on a big shared bingo card.

Online and Mobile Bingo

Themed Bingo Rooms

Online platforms offer bingo with themes like movie nights, holidays or celebrity-based games.

Progressive Bingo

Progressive jackpot games featureabigger prize pool that grows until someone wins.

Mini Bingo Games

These quick, casual games offer bingo as a mini-game within another game or app.

The Craziest Bingos

Drag Queen Bingo

This extreme variant is lively and theatrical. It’s often hosted by drag queens.

It’s a way to combine traditional bingo with comedy, performances and audience participation.

Beach Bingo

Find this played at summer events or resortswith beach-themed cards and often featuring items like seashells or sunglasses instead of numbers.

Facebook Bingo

Instead of traditional bingo numbers, players mark off life events, activities or habits on a card shared via social media.

Virtual Reality (VR) Bingo

This futuristic bingo uses VR tech to immerse players in a 3D bingo hall.Players can interact with the environment and other players in real-time.

Starting off with bingo today

Starting to play bingo is VERY easy – especially with all these different forms of the game readily available.

Online bingo platforms are best for beginners. They are convenient and offer a great variety of games.

Most require you to create an account. This involves providing basic details and verifying your identity.

They’ll ask you to deposit money to start playing. Some offer free games for new players.

Once registered you simply select the game you want to play and buy a bingo card.Then it’s time for ‘eyes down’ to join in the latest and greatest internet entertainment.