Types of Bingo Games: A Guide to Variations and Patterns

Traditional bingo games like 75-ball and 90-ball are still the most popular in India. But many players now enjoy special and festive versions of bingo. In this article, you’ll learn about the top types of bingo games and what makes each one special.

Classic Bingo Variations

75-Ball Bingo: The American Classic

Grid Size: 5×5

Used mostly in the U.S.

Predominantly played in North America, the 75-ball bingo is a staple in many households and bingo halls. The game features a 5×5 grid with numbers ranging from 1 to 75. The center square is typically a free space, allowing for diverse winning patterns, from simple lines to intricate shapes like letters and symbols. This variation’s flexibility in patterns adds an extra layer of excitement, keeping players engaged and on their toes.​

75-Ball Bingo Patterns

• Straight Line: Horizontal, vertical, or diagonal
• X Pattern: Two diagonal lines crossing the card
• Four Corners: All corner numbers must be marked
• Diamond: A diamond-shaped pattern in the middle of the card
• Letters: Shaped like letters (E, H, T, L, X, Z)
• Coverall / Blackout: All 24 numbers on the card must be marked

90-Ball Bingo: The UK’s Favorite

Grid Size: 9×3

Popular in the UK and India.

The 90-ball bingo is the go-to variant in the United Kingdom and is gaining popularity worldwide. Played on a 9×3 grid, each card contains 15 numbers. The game progresses through three stages: completing one line, two lines, and finally, a full house. This structured approach offers multiple chances to win, making it a favorite among both novices and seasoned players.​ Patterns in 90-ball bingo are simpler and more structured compared to 75-ball.

90-Ball Bingo Patterns

• One Line: Any full horizontal line
• Two Lines: Any two full horizontal lines
• Full House: All 15 numbers on the card

30-Ball Bingo: Speed Bingo for the Fast-Paced

Grid Size: 3×3

The 30-ball bingo game, also known as Speed Bingo, is completed in just a few minutes. The card has a small 3×3 grid with only 30 numbers. You can play it easily on your phone. It’s perfect for short breaks or when you’re traveling. There’s only one way to win—mark all 9 numbers. It’s simple and super quick.

30-Ball Bingo Patterns

• Full House Only: All 9 numbers on the card must be marked to win

80-Ball Bingo: The Middle Ground

Grid Size: 4×4

Striking a balance between the 75-ball and 90-ball versions, the 80-ball bingo offers a unique experience. Played on a 4×4 grid with numbers from 1 to 80, this variant introduces color-coded columns, enhancing visual appeal and gameplay. The game incorporates various winning patterns, providing a fresh twist for players seeking something different.​

Comparing the Variants

Variant	Grid Size	Number Range	Key Features
75-Ball	5×5 (24 numbers + free space)	1-75	Diverse patterns, free center square
90-Ball	9×3 (15 numbers)	1-90	Three winning stages, structured play
30-Ball	3×3 (9 numbers)	1-30	Fast-paced, ideal for quick sessions
80-Ball	4×4 (16 numbers)	1-80	Color-coded columns, varied patterns

Innovative Bingo Variations

Slingo (Slots + Bingo)

Slingo combines the elements of slot machines and bingo, offering a fast-paced and engaging experience. Players spin reels to match numbers on a bingo-style grid, aiming to complete lines and achieve high scores. The game includes features like wilds, free spins, and bonus rounds, enhancing its appeal to fans of both slots and bingo.​

​Here are some popular Slingo games that have gained traction among Indian players:​

• Slingo Rainbow Riches. A fusion of the classic Rainbow Riches slot and Slingo gameplay, this game offers vibrant graphics and multiple bonus rounds. Players can enjoy features like the Wishing Well and Pots of Gold, making it a favorite among those seeking a blend of traditional and modern gaming experiences.​
• Slingo Starburst. Combining the iconic Starburst slot with Slingo mechanics, this game delivers dazzling visuals and exciting gameplay. Players aim to match numbers on a 5×5 grid, with the addition of wilds and re-spins enhancing the potential for big wins.​
• Slingo Deal or No Deal. Based on the popular TV show, this variant integrates the suspense of choosing briefcases with Slingo’s number-matching mechanics. Players progress through the game by completing Slingos, leading to the classic Deal or No Deal feature where strategic decisions can lead to substantial rewards.​
• Slingo Da Vinci Diamonds. This game merges the elegance of Da Vinci’s artwork with Slingo’s engaging gameplay. Players match numbers to reveal cascading symbols, with the potential for multiple consecutive wins and access to a bonus game featuring Da Vinci’s masterpieces.​
• Slingo Deadliest Catch. Inspired by the adventurous TV series, this game takes players on a virtual crab fishing expedition. By completing Slingos, players unlock bonus rounds like Crab Grab and Crab Hunt, offering interactive and rewarding experiences.​

These games are accessible through the official Slingo platform and various online casinos catering to Indian players. They provide a unique blend of slot and bingo elements, appealing to a wide range of gaming enthusiasts.​

Specialty Bingo Variants

Themed Bingo Games

Themed bingo games incorporate popular culture, holidays, and special events into the traditional bingo format. These games offer unique visuals, sound effects, and gameplay elements that align with the chosen theme, providing a fresh and immersive experience for players.​

Advantages:

• Big jack

Flash Fives (52-5 Bingo)

Flash Fives is also called 52-5 Bingo. It is a fun mix of playing cards and bingo. Instead of numbered balls, the game uses a deck of 52 playing cards.

Each player gets a card with 5 random playing cards on it. Cards are drawn from the deck one by one. If one of your 5 cards is called, you mark it. The first player to mark all 5 cards wins. It’s easy and fast.

Advantages:

• It feels like Teen Patti or Rummy, so it’s familiar
• The game is very quick—great for short free time
• Easy to play on mobile apps
• You can win prizes often because games are fast

U-Pick’Em Bingo

In U-Pick’Em Bingo, players select their own numbers before the game begins. It’s not like regular bingo where the card is already filled. Players choose from a range of numbers, like 1 to 75. After the game begins, numbers are called one by one. If the number comes, players mark it.

The aim is to finish a line, pattern, or full card—just like normal bingo.

This format allows players to use their favorite or “lucky” numbers, enhancing engagement and investment in the game.​

Advantages:

• You get to choose your own numbers
• People believe in lucky numbers—this game fits that belief
• It’s easy to play online or on bingo apps
• Prizes depend on how many players win

Blackout Bingo (Coverall)

Blackout Bingo is also called Coverall Bingo. In this game player must mark all the numbers on your card to win. Not just one line or a pattern—every single number.

This game is the same type of bingo card—75-ball or 90-ball, but takes longer than normal bingo. But the prize is usually bigger. That’s why many people love it. The excitement builds with every number. You wait and hope to finish your full card first.

Advantages:

• Big prizes because the game is harder
• More fun and suspense till the last number
• Very easy rules—just mark all the numbers
• Fun to play on phones and bingo apps

Progressive Bingo

Progressive Bingo is a fun game where the prize money keeps growing. If no one wins, the jackpot becomes bigger in the next game. It goes on until someone wins.

To win, a player must complete a pattern like full house in limited calls. For example, you may need to mark all your numbers in 50 calls or less. If no one wins, the prize moves to the next round. This variant adds excitement and the potential for substantial rewards, attracting players looking for high-stakes gameplay.That’s why it’s called “progressive.”

Advantages:

• Big jackpots and exciting wins
• More people playing = bigger prize pool
• Game feels thrilling because of the growing prize
• Easy to play on online apps and websites 

Bingo Bonanza

Bingo Bonanza is a fast-paced game where numbers are called rapidly, and players must keep up to mark their cards. It may have more than 75 or 90 numbers. Extra balls make the game more exciting. The goal is to finish a line, pattern, or full house before others.

Advantages:

• Very fast and energetic gameplay
• Bigger chances to win with extra numbers
• Great to play on mobile and online platforms
• Fun to play with friends during festivals and parties

Death Bingo

Death Bingo is a reverse version of traditional bingo where the goal is to avoid completing a bingo. Players aim to keep their cards unmarked for as long as possible, with the last player to get a bingo declared the winner. ​

Advantages:

• Good for parties and friendly matches
• It’s different and fun—needs smart thinking
• It feels funny because you try not to win
• Easy to play online with friends

Quickie Bingo

Quickie Bingo is a super-fast version of regular bingo. Numbers are called very quickly, one after another, with no long pauses. The game moves fast, so players must pay attention and mark their cards quickly. It usually ends in just a few minutes. The rules stay the same—you still win by completing a line, pattern, or full house.

Advantages:

• Perfect for short breaks or travel time
• Fun and fast to play on mobile apps
• High energy and less waiting
• Good for players who like quick results

Shotgun Bingo

Shotgun Bingo is a high-speed, action-packed version of bingo. Just like the name suggests, numbers are called out fast—one after the other—like a shotgun blast. Players have to be quick and fully focused. The first person to finish a winning pattern wins.

Advantages:

• Super quick and exciting
• Tests your focus and speed
• Fun at parties and events
• Works well on fast-paced mobile bingo apps

Educational and Kids’ Bingo

Educational Bingo adapts the traditional game to teach children various subjects, such as math, vocabulary, and history. By replacing numbers with educational content, this variant makes learning interactive and fun.

Online vs. Offline Bingo

Both online and offline bingo have their charm, but they serve different types of players. Offline bingo is all about atmosphere—you get to mingle, sip coffee, and yell out “Bingo!” with real emotion. Traditional bingo halls, often located in community centers or casinos, offer a social, tactile experience that technology just can’t replicate.

Aspect	Online Bingo	Offline Bingo
Accessibility	Available anytime via smartphone or computer	Requires physical presence at bingo halls
Social Interaction	Limited to chat features and virtual rooms	High – face-to-face interactions
Game Variety	Wide variety including themed and progressive games	Limited to traditional game types
Convenience	High – play from anywhere	Low – travel and time needed
Atmosphere	Lacks real-life ambiance	Rich, nostalgic environment
Speed of Gameplay	Fast-paced, especially 30-ball versions	Moderate pace, traditional format
Bonus Features	Often includes bonuses, loyalty rewards	Rarely includes extra features
Cost to Play	Usually lower costs, many free options	May include entry fees or travel expenses
Learning Curve	User-friendly interfaces, tutorials available	Guided by hall staff or other players
Customization Options	Players can often choose card numbers, themes	Pre-printed cards with fixed numbers

Bingo Patterns and Winning Strategies

Different bingo variations bring different winning patterns. And while luck plays a huge role, knowing your patterns and deploying a few tactical moves can up your chances big time.

Common Bingo Patterns

There’s more to bingo than the classic straight line. You’ve got patterns like the X, T, four corners, blackout, and even more exotic ones like kite, diamond, and windmill.

Online platforms often get creative, adding new patterns regularly to keep the game fresh and engaging.

FAQs