Bingo Rules Explained

Right then, let's cut to the chase; you've landed here because you fancy getting clued up on bingo rules, and we're excited to help! Whether you're a complete newbie or just want to brush up on the rules of bingo before diving into our brilliant online bingo games, you've come to the right place.

Understanding the bingo game rules will help you get the most out of every session. So, pop the kettle on, get comfy, and let's have a proper chinwag about everything you need to know!

The basic bingo rules you need to know

Let's start with the fundamentals. At its heart, playing bingo is delightfully simple - you've got a ticket with numbers on it, a caller announces numbers, and you mark them off as they're called. First person to complete the winning bingo pattern? Well done, you've won!

But here's where it gets interesting. The rules in bingo can vary depending on which format you're playing. Whether it's 75-ball, 80-ball, or the classic 90-ball bingo games we all know and love, each comes with its own quirks and winning patterns.

How the game kicks off

When you join a bingo game, you'll purchase your bingo tickets before it starts. Each ticket displays unique random numbers, and once everyone's ready, the caller begins drawing numbers.

In traditional bingo halls, you'd see those iconic tumbling bingo machines. Online, we use RNGs (random number generators) - sophisticated technology that ensures every number drawn is completely random and fair.

Understanding 90-ball bingo games

Let's talk about the granddad of British bingo: 90-ball bingo. This classic format uses tickets with 27 squares arranged in three rows and nine columns. Each row contains five numbers and four blank spaces.

There are typically three ways to win 90-ball bingo games:

One Line

Mark off all five numbers in any single horizontal line on your ticket, and you could bag yourself a prize. First bingo player to shout "line!" (or have it marked automatically online) wins.

Two Lines

Complete any two horizontal lines on your ticket, and you've bagged yourself another price. It's like winning twice in one game, lovely stuff.

Full House

This is the big one. Mark off every single number on your ticket for the top prize - usually the most generous.

The beauty of 90-ball bingo games is that multiple players can win throughout a single game. You might snag a line prize, someone else gets two lines, and a third player celebrates the full house. Fancy giving it a go? Sapphire Bingo is one of our most popular 90-ball bingo games with brilliant prizes up for grabs.

Rules for 75-ball and 80-ball bingo

If you fancy mixing things up a bit, let's have a look at how the other bingo games work and what makes them different.

75-Ball Bingo Rules

This American-style bingo game uses a 5x5 grid with 25 squares. Instead of playing for lines, you're usually aiming to complete a specific pattern – it could be a diagonal, a letter, or a shape.

The pattern you're playing for will be shown before the game starts. Some of our 75-ball games at Jackpotjoy, like Superlinks 75, offer multiple ways to win in a single game – that's five chances to pocket a prize.

80-Ball Bingo Rules

This format features a 4x4 grid with 16 numbers. The bingo game rules here can vary – some games award prizes for completing lines, while others use pattern-based wins. Our Bingo 80 game throws in retro 1980s vibes that make it properly entertaining.

Want to try all three formats in one go? Check out Session Bingo, where you can enjoy a brilliant mix of 75, 80, and 90-ball bingo titles all in one session.

How are bingo rules different online?

Good news - the fundamental bingo game rules stay the same whether you're playing in a land-based hall or online from your sofa. The core gameplay, winning patterns, and basic structure remain consistent, so everything you've learned still applies.

The brilliant thing about playing bingo online is that it comes with some cracking extra features that make following the rules even easier:

Auto-Daub

This clever feature automatically marks off your numbers as they're called, so you'll never miss a win. Sit back, have a natter in the chat room, and let the technology do the legwork.

Random Number Generators (RNGs)

These sophisticated systems ensure every number drawn is completely random and fair. RNGs are all regulated and regularly tested to keep everything above board, so you know everyone has a fair shot of winning.

Multiple Tickets

Play multiple bingo tickets at once without getting overwhelmed. The auto-daub feature tracks them all, and more tickets can mean more chances to win.

Special jackpot rules

Our jackpot bingo games come with special bingo game rules that make them extra exciting. Progressive jackpots grow with every ticket sold until someone wins; the longer they go unclaimed, the bigger they get. Must-win jackpots have to be won by a certain time, and community jackpots are shared among all players in the game.

For the full lowdown on playing online and accessing all our amazing games, check out our guide on how to play online bingo.

Getting started: your first game.

Now that you're clued up on the bingo rules, you're ready to dive in. Playing with Jackpotjoy is straightforward: sign up and deposit, choose your game, buy your bingo tickets (from just 1p!), and play. Let auto-daub do the work while you enjoy yourself.

The rules of bingo might vary slightly from game to game, but once you've got the basics down, you're laughing. Our friendly support team is available 24/7 if you need help.

Ready to put your knowledge to the test?

There you have it; everything you need to know about bingo rules without the boring bits. Whether you're interested in traditional 90-ball bingo games or fancy trying something different, understanding the bingo game rules will help you make the most of every session.

The beauty of bingo is that while the rules in bingo are important, the game itself is brilliantly accessible. You don't need to be a mastermind - just a bit of excitement and a sense of fun.

So, what are you waiting for? Head over to our bingo page and put your newfound knowledge to good use. With entertaining games running around the clock and brilliant bingo prizes up for grabs, there's never been a better time to join the fun. At Jackpotjoy, we're all about grabbing fun by the balls and having a good time! Just hit that ‘Join Now’ button to join in.

Ready to put the bingo rules into practice? Play online bingo at Jackpotjoy and explore our exciting range of 75, 80, and 90-ball bingo games, with brilliant jackpots and daily prizes to be won - or head over to our joyful blog for more game guides, top tips, and the latest bingo news.

All offers mentioned correct at the time of writing but may be subject to change.