Back in 2007, the Guardian reported that brick-and-mortar bingo halls were on the brink of extinction. But 15 years later, research from Sport England shows that more people in the UK play bingo than tennis.
In fact, a whopping 1.9 million Brits play bingo every month – and this is largely due to the huge popularity of the online version. On October 19 2017, Rank Group, who owns Mecca Bingo, announced a 19% surge in profits that offset the 1% fall in visitors to the bingo halls.
So what is it about the likes of 888 Ladies and other online bingo games that draws in so many people?
It’s quicker and easier to play
Unlike in a bingo hall, you can play online whenever the mood takes you. In traditional venues, you have to listen out for the numbers (1-90) to win; it’s your responsibility to cross the numbers on your card. But if you mishear the bingo caller or make a mistake, you could end up losing even if you have all the numbers in place.
By contrast, online bingo ensures you don’t have to worry about missing a call. Why? Because the computer crosses the numbers out for you! So whether you want to take a quick nap or make a cup of tea in between playing, online bingo makes it all easy.
It’s a great hobby (and is actually more sociable)
As stated in a BBC article from 2013, many see online bingo as more of a hobby than a way to make money. Besides, as bingo is a game of chance and doesn’t require any skill, players are more likely to spend any money they win.
And because online bingo sites come complete with chatrooms, they act as a way of socialising with friends. This may seem like a ridiculous notion, but traditional bingo often means sitting in silence, despite the fact your friends may be sat in front of you. Online bingo is actually more popular than its traditional counterpart!
It gets cold outside
Online bingo is most popular in the winter. This is because it allows people to play bingo in the warmth of their homes. Let’s face it, when it’s so cold outside, who wants to sit in a draughty old bingo hall?
Bonuses and promotions
Another reason that Brits flock to online bingo sites is that they offer a wide range of bonuses and promotions. This means you can win more with a smaller deposit. On the other hand, as a member of a bingo hall, you may get free drinks and the chance to take part in loyalty schemes, but these don’t usually increase your chances of winning.
Online bingo sites also offer the biggest prizes – sometimes you can win thousands. For example, the 888 Ladies game we mentioned earlier in this article boasts the Sweet Stack Up promotion, which gives you the opportunity to win a £1000 jackpot prize.
