When you think of gambling you likely think about Vegas, Atlantic City, casinos, and even cards. Do you, though, think of the local VA, elementary school, or Catholic Church? If not, then maybe you should consider that not only is a Bingo a game of chance, but it is also one of the most popular kinds of gambling around. With that in mind, consider some of the basics of the game before you run off to the Wednesday night games at the local VA lodge and try to win the big jackpot.
Bingo was actually originally a European game. It was played in Italy in the 16th century and then later by the French. By the 19th century, Bingo was being played all over Europe by adults for money and by children to learn basic arithmetic. It wasn’t until the early 20th century, though, that it actually found its way to the United States, and eventually your local Catholic church’s fund raiser.
Really, perhaps the easiest thing about bingo is that all you need to pay it are the cards, bingo cages, and markers. Bingo cards should have five rows and five columns. As the numbers are called they are marked on the cards with either the markers or what are called daubers. Daubers are really the tool of choice for true bingo players. They are like stamps for marking bingo cards.
The only real strategy you will see in your typical bingo game, aside from good luck charms, are the purchase of multiple cards to increase your odds of having a winner. The only problem is that you need to make sure you keep your number of cards manageable enough so that you can always keep track of all cards on each number call.
Finally, keep in mind that bingo is completely a game of chance. You have the same odds as anyone else, or rather each of your cards does. In the end, there are no quick ways to win or secret strategies. Many people keep good luck charms with them or sitting on the bingo table near their cards, but if you do not like the idea of pure luck, then bingo is not the game for you.
So next time you are at that big Catholic fundraiser, elementary school game night, or even at your local bingo hall, keep these ideas in mind. Bingo can certainly be quite enjoyable and you can win money or prizes, but keep in mind that there is little if any skill involved. If you keep those things in mind and try to take the game for what it is then you will be able to enjoy it to the fullest amount possible.
By: Scott Hargrave
Nov 01
