One of the most social games, Bingo is a universal game that has kept its popularity throughout history. Since the 16th century, Bingo has traveled miles from Italy throughout the European continent to America. This article celebrates some big moments in its history and acknowledges some of this game’s major breakthroughs.
Early Developments in Online Bingo: Adapting the Classic Game
The origins of Bingo date back to the 16th century in Italy, where each Saturday, Italians would play a game called “Lo Giuoco del Lotto d’Italia.” West of Italy, in France, Bingo was known as “Le Lotto.” The game continued to spread until it reached Germany in the 19th century. However, the Germans used Bingo for educational purposes, such as timetables and, surprisingly, history! Bingo journeyed across Europe until it found its way to American carnivals and fairs. There, it was known as “Beano.”
During his travels from Atlanta, Edwin Lowe discovered Beano at a fair. He was so impressed with the game that he brought it back to New York City. One of Lowe’s friends was responsible for the name “Bingo.” Instead of saying “Beano,” he yelled “Bingo!” and from that point on, the game was officially known as such. If you’re interested in exploring different variations of the game, you can find a comprehensive list of sites here that offer various bingo experiences catering to different preferences and styles.
Online Bingo was first introduced in the United States in 1996 when the website Bingo Zone launched. It quickly became popular, and by 2000, there were approximately 20 websites for people to choose from. The first online Bingo site in the UK was Bingo Blitz, launched in August 2012 and was the first to offer cash prizes.
The Evolution of Bingo Events: From Halls to Online Tournaments
In 1960, the UK passed a law called the Gaming Act, which became effective on January 1, 1961. This law permitted gambling slot machines, which created a new opportunity for businesses to thrive. During the same period, an entertainment tax was levied, forcing many cinemas to close down. In 1956, many cinemas began converting to Bingo clubs.
In May 1961, the Rank Organization converted two London cinemas into Bingo halls: the Odeon Hackney Road and the Gaumont Peckham. This led to a boom in the opening of Bingo clubs around Britain. Bingo clubs became official social hubs, and the first purpose-built Bingo hall was the Castle Club at Canton in Cardiff, which opened in December 1988.
A Crossover Between Offline & Online Bingo Games
Old Bingo games used cardboard cards with squares of numbers printed on them. A selected member would draw a ball and call the numbers. Players were meant to cross out the numbers until they had a full horizontal or vertical line. Then, they would yell “Bingo” and be declared winners.
Online Bingo still follows the same rules but has a few added benefits. Multiple players can play from within the same room using a unanimous app. The app can call numbers using a virtual caller, so players don’t have to miss out on the fun of yelling “Bingo!” Everyone can join to cash in on the prize.
Gamification of Rewards: Enhancing Engagement & Retention
Old Bingo games were typically played on Bingo nights. Winners would often win a discount coupon or a gift card, and some clubs would give out cash prizes. Some groups would pool money from the entry fee, and the winner would get to collect the cash. However, the introduction of online Bingo shifted the concept of prizes.
While some online Bingo games still offer cash prizes, many have gamified their prizes. Online prizes now include discount offers or free items, but these discounts are only valid within the game app. Websites and Bingo apps also offer virtual currency for players to purchase gaming perks, and some offer digital badges. Players can find meaning in online Bingo through small achievements, such as climbing the leaderboard or defeating the record of an online friend.
Some gaming apps use different techniques to keep players engaged. For example, they allow players to progress through different levels and playing modes. This helps to elevate the boredom sensation and increase players’ engagement. These techniques have proven to be quite beneficial and addictive.
Mobile Gaming: How Smartphones Revolutionized Bingo Accessibility
Bingo gaming apps promote sociability, one of Bingo’s most dominant traits. Online apps and websites allow players to invite, add preexisting friends, research other players, join a group, form one, or add a new friend. Players can play together, compete, or enter a tournament. Online Bingo games unite members worldwide to enjoy a quiet night of social fun. Friendships are often created, and conversations can happen.
The Future of Online Bingo: Trends and Predictions
Who knows what the future hides? With the introduction of virtual and augmented realities, we could be witnessing a virtual Bingo hall where players can meet with virtual fellow players, select their desks, strike numbers, and win the final prize!
Tech or no tech, Bingo never fails to be a fun light game where participants enjoy each other’s company.
Iskra Banović is our seasoned Editor-in-Chief at Blufashion. She has been steering the website’s content and editorial direction since 2018. With a rich background in fashion design, Iskra’s expertise spans across fashion, interior design, beauty, lifestyle, travel, and culture.
