Online bingo is growing all over the world. According to data published by Custom Market Insights, North America will make a significant contribution to the rise of the game with bingo complementing other iGaming favorites at online casinos such as poker, roulette, blackjack, and slots.
Yet, the rise of online bingo is being felt mostly in the UK where it has historically enjoyed popularity. Since its appeal at carnivals in the early 20th century, the game has been present in British pop culture. During the 1980s, at the height of its success, people could get their dabbers out at over 1,600 bingo halls spread across the country.
There was then a lull in its appeal before the internet helped reinvent its allure. Since the advent of internet-based casinos, there has been a huge rise in platforms to play bingo online in the UK, each offering a range of variations such as 75-ball and 90-ball bingo as well as the faster 30-ball version. According to research by Gitnux, 3.5 million people in the UK are estimated to play the game today.
Why Do People Play Bingo Online?
One major driver behind the rise in online bingo in the UK is ease of access thanks to the growth of reputable providers. The convenience of participating from home or on the go through various devices aligns well with modern lifestyles, attracting a broader demographic.
Additionally, the global reach of online platforms removes geographical barriers, fostering a diverse and vibrant community of players. The variety of game formats available also caters to different preferences, ensuring continuous engagement and appealing to a wide audience. Furthermore, social interaction features replicate the camaraderie of physical bingo halls, enhancing player engagement and long-term involvement.
The market’s growth is also fueled by the variety of online bingo games on offer. Digital platforms provide greater opportunities for developers to create unique variations of the game. When it comes to bingo for beginners UK, the 90-ball version, the most common variation to be played in Great Britain, is typically favored. This features a 9×3 grid with 90 numbers. Players have three chances to win in each game: one line, two lines, and a full house. This variation is preferred for its multiple winning opportunities, enhancing the game’s excitement and engagement.
However, themed versions such as Deal or No Deal bingo and alternatives such as Slingo, which combines elements of the game with slots gameplay, have added to the options players can try. Ongoing innovation in game mechanics, themes, and interactive features keeps interest alive. Cross-platform accessibility further broadens the market’s reach, allowing players to enjoy games on desktops, smartphones, and tablets.
Bingo Set to Continue Growing
Bingo is even enjoying a renaissance in bingo halls too. According to a recent YouGov survey, a notable portion of online bingo players (28%) visit physical bingo halls. The same research also revealed that bingo’s growth is primarily driven by younger demographics, with 28% of online bingo players being aged 25-34, closely followed by the 35-44 age group at 26%. Women are more likely to play online bingo, making up 62% of players.
As innovation in game mechanics, themes, and cross-platform accessibility keeps the game fresh and engaging, bingo’s popularity is set to keep growing. The game has not only maintained its relevance but also expanded its appeal, making it a thriving sector in the UK’s iGaming industry.