The Growth of Bingo in the US

Bingo was a relatively popular game played in many parts of the world. Its popularity seemed great in church basements. However, many people came to know about it after its adoption into the online world. Today, there are more than 60 million Bingo players in the US and the numbers keep growing progressively. 

The game originated in Italy in the 16th century and was introduced in the country in the 1920s. In 1996, the game started appearing in the online space. Now, you don’t have to visit a physical Bingo room to play the game. You only need your mobile device. 

What is Bingo? 

Bingo is a chance-based game that involves matching certain numbers on a card with those called by the game’s moderator. Participants often shout Bingo when they make certain columns, rows, shapes, or complete cards.

During its early years, Bingo was known as Beano. This is due to the fact that participants used rows of beans to cover their cards of numbered squares.

While bingo traces its origins to Italy, it was inspired by European lotto and was modernised in the US. Initially, it was a pastime at carnivals in Western Pennsylvania and Pittsburgh in the 1920s. The game’s popularity soon accelerated, and by the 1930s Edward S. Lowe patented and mass-produced Bingo cards. 

The Catholic Church seized the opportunity to use the games as a means of generating income. The rise of Bingo soon indicated the growth of Native American Games. In 1979, the Seminoles started offering the game on a commercial scale. It did not take long before a majority of the federally recognised tribes became involved in gaming. 

By 2002, close to 300 of the 562 tribes were benefiting financially from the game. However, its story was about to be dimmed. After some time, wagering for money in the US was prohibited. In 2018, the Supreme Court allowed states to make their regulations after removing the PASPA Act.

Following the ruling, most states opened the gaming market to enhance revenue generation. Some of the first states to legalise wagering on Bingo and other games were New York, Delaware, and Nevada.

The Rise and Impact of Online Bingo

Advances in technology have revolutionised Bingo and opened it up to more player bases. It is no longer the game that used to be played in church basements.

Below are some aspects that have become significant with the rise of online Bingo:

1. Great Compatibility 

Modern developers have adapted online Bingo games for tablets and smartphones, making the game more convenient to play. Many players appreciate the fact that they can play conveniently from anywhere, which explains the immense popularity of mobile Bingo. 

2. Virtual Reality Bingo Games 

Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality gaming have taken the industry by storm and revolutionised high-class entertainment. The technologies allow players to indulge in immersive gameplay from their homes. Bingo game developers are adding this feature to cash in on the trend. 

3. Higher Player Connection 

Bingo has always been a social game, and developers are doing everything to keep it so. This includes incorporating chatbots to make the game more enticing. While this feature became mainstream lately, it has carried on as the need for communication rises. 

4. Responsible Bingo Gaming 

Bingo originally started as a fun pastime with family and friends. This is why some people fear that there may be risks associated with online bingo gaming, where wagering is involved. However, there are strict regulations to mitigate such dangers and safer gaming campaigns help to promote responsible wagering.

What is the Future of Bingo in the US? 

While some people may consider Bingo a bit outdated, it is a game that seems to never lose its relevance. It has a promising future in the US. Already, game developers have upgraded their software to include Bingo variations and features. This includes 30-ball Bingo, 75-ball Bingo, and 90-ball Bingo.

Numerous US citizens love Bingo due to its social access and accessibility. Bingo players may continue increasing, enhancing the game’s growth in the US and many other countries. Soon, the game’s varieties and features will continue to rise. This way, every Bingo enthusiast will have something that suits their preferences.

Conclusion

Bingo is a simple but swift and frenetic game of vigilance and recollection. It is designed for players of all ages and is distinguished by a unique ‘Bingo’ shout whenever someone has won.

In the US, the game started as a fun activity but was soon commercialised by salesman Edward S. Lowe. The Catholic Church, the Native Community, and other entities soon picked it up as a fundraising and economic tool.

Overall, the game has gained massive popularity all over the US, particularly after it became available in online casinos. Bingo also has a promising future, with most companies seeking ways to adapt it to various personal preferences.

By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Pexels