Bingo is enjoyed by people all over the world, but the way the game is played often depends on where you are.
In the UK, bingo may look quite different from the games played in the United States, with differences in the tickets, rules, and even the way numbers are called. The online experience can introduce further variations, depending on which version is on offer.
If you’re curious about these differences or wondering what sets UK and American bingo apart, this guide explains everything you need to know. Read on to learn more.
What Is American Bingo?
American bingo is usually known as 75-ball bingo and is the version most often played in the United States.
Each player receives a card with a five by five grid, displaying numbers from 1 to 75. The centre square is marked “free,” so you can mark it straight away. The columns are headed by the letters B, I, N, G, and O.
A caller announces numbers at random, and you mark any matching ones on your card. The aim is to complete a set pattern, which might be a line, a specific shape, or a full card, depending on the game.
When playing at online casinos, you may see several American bingo options, each with its own patterns and rules. If you’re joining games on a UK site, ticket prices will be in GBP, even for this version.
Players should always remember to gamble responsibly and within their means- never wager more than you can afford to lose.
How Many Numbers Are in American Bingo?
Each American bingo game features 75 numbers, covering a range from 1 to 75. These are divided across five columns on your ticket, each headed by one of the letters B, I, N, G, O. The “B” column has numbers 1 to 15, “I” is 16 to 30, “N” is 31 to 45 (with the free centre square), “G” is 46 to 60, and “O” is 61 to 75.
Numbers are drawn at random, just as already described, and announced as combinations like “B-10” or “O-68.” Online bingo sites may use a Random Number Generator (RNG) for this, but every standard game includes the full set of 75 numbers. Different casino sites may also offer special patterns or adjusted rules.
American Bingo Rules vs UK Bingo Rules
While both versions follow the same general concept, several important details set them apart.
In American bingo, the ticket holds 25 squares in a five by five grid, with one “free” square in the middle. Numbers run from 1 to 75, split between the B, I, N, G, and O columns. Winning usually means completing a line, a shape, or even your entire card, depending on the specific pattern in play.
UK bingo, on the other hand, uses 90 numbers and a ticket with 27 spaces, laid out in three rows of nine columns. Each row contains five numbers and four blank spaces. Here, the goal is to mark off a line, two lines, or a full house (covering all numbers on your ticket).
The way numbers are drawn remains random in both versions, but the win patterns and the structure of the tickets are unique to each country. Online casino sites in the UK may offer both types, each with its own ticket price and options for extra features or playing more cards at once.
Why Do UK and US Bingo Use Different Formats?
The game developed along different lines in each country.
In the UK, bingo became widely played in social clubs and licensed halls throughout the 20th century, settling into a 90-number game seen at both charity events and dedicated venues. In America, the game grew from an early version called “beano” in the 1920s and took on its 75-number format with distinctive patterns and win conditions.
Both countries have maintained these versions, reflecting their own traditions and preferences. Now that bingo is available online, you can access both 90-ball and 75-ball games from most UK sites. Online versions might add new features or small changes to tickets, so it could help to check how each game works before you join.
Is Bingo Big In The USA?
Bingo has long been part of community life in the United States, played in settings from social clubs to larger bingo halls. These games often support local charities or bring together people for regular events, sometimes drawing large crowds.
Although bingo isn’t always the main focus at American casinos, it remains a well-recognised activity. Online bingo does exist in some US states, but availability varies widely due to local regulations, which makes the online selection smaller compared to the UK.
The 75-ball version continues to be the most recognisable and most played, even as other variants appear. Those in the UK who try American bingo online may notice a few differences, but games will always reflect the UK’s own rules and safeguards.
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**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.