Learn how to play bingo in just 5 minutes

1. What is bingo and what do you need to play?

Bingo is a board game played with balls numbered from 1 to 90 and cards containing 15 numbers arranged in three rows of five numbers (in some variants the cards contain more numbers). The cards are usually prepared in advance, and each player is dealt one or more of them.

In addition, a bag or box is needed from which the balls will be drawn, as well as a person who will run the game (known as a "caller"). A marker or other object to mark the numbers on the map is also necessary. Raffles are often played for prizes, which can be symbolic (like candy) or more valuable, depending on the agreement between the participants. This game is a favorite because of its simplicity and the ability for a large number of people to participate.

2. Rules of the game

The bingo rules are very simple and easy to understand even for beginners . Caller draws balls at random from the bag and loudly announces the number drawn. Players then check their cards and mark the number if it is on their card. The goal of the game is for players to fill in certain combinations of numbers on their card.

Combinations include ambo (two numbers in a row), terno (three numbers), quaterna (four numbers), cinquina (five numbers) and raffle (all numbers on a card). Each combination brings a certain prize, and the main prize is awarded for a raffle. It is important that the player immediately announces when he hits any of the combinations so that a check can be made before the game continues.

3. How to play bingo?

The game begins with each player being dealt one or more randomly numbered cards. Caller then randomly draws balls from the bag and reads their number aloud. Players carefully follow the draw and mark the corresponding numbers on their cards.

When a player completes one of the prize combinations, he must say the name of that combination (eg "Cinquina!" or "Tombola!") out loud to attract the attention of the caller and other participants. The Caller then checks the ticket to confirm that all drawn numbers are correctly marked. If everything is correct, the player wins the prize, and the game continues until the main prize - the raffle - is won. The raffle can last from a few minutes to an hour, depending on the number of participants and the speed of the game.

4. Game strategies

Although bingo is not a strategy game in the classic sense, there are ways to increase your chances of winning or make the game more fun. Buying multiple cards can significantly increase your chances of winning one of the prizes as you have more options to cover the numbers drawn.

Also, it's important to be careful during the game so you don't miss a number on your card - missing it can mean losing your chance to win. If you organize a raffle at home, you can add additional prizes for smaller combinations to make the game more dynamic. A game with more participants usually brings more excitement because there is more competition.

5. Relevant raffle statistics

Tombola is a globally popular game that has a long tradition in many countries, especially in Italy where it is often played during the Christmas holidays. According to research, digital versions of bingo have seen a huge increase in popularity in recent years.

For example, a British company Tombola Ltd . Which offers an online version of the game, generated revenue between 200 and 500 million euros in 2026. Year, with an average duration of visits to their platforms of over eight minutes per user. Statistics show that online versions of the game are attractive to younger generations thanks to the ease of access and interactive design of the applications.

6. Variations of the game

Bingo is a game of chance that comes in several different formats, suited to different preferences and occasions. The most popular types of raffles are described below:

1. Classic tombola with 90 numbers

This is the most common form of bingo, where a set of 90 numbered balls and cards with 15 numbers arranged in three rows is used. The aim is to cover certain combinations of numbers, such as ambo, terno, quaterna, cinquina and tombola. The classic version is a favorite for its simplicity and is suitable for larger groups of participants. This type of game is often organized at social events or in betting shops.

2. Raffle with a smaller number of balls

In addition to the standard 90-number version, variations with a smaller range of numbers, such as 75- or 80-number raffles, are also popular. These versions are faster and more dynamic, as players have fewer numbers to track on their cards. This type of bingo is often used in online games to attract players who prefer shorter games.

How to play bingo with fewer balls

Bingo with a smaller number of balls is played similarly to the classic game, but with a reduced number of numbers in the drum, for example 48 instead of 90. Players choose a certain number of numbers on the cards, and balls are randomly drawn during the draw. The goal is to guess as many drawn numbers as possible and achieve winning combinations such as amba, tern or raffle. In bingo, an amb indicates that a player has hit two numbers on their card, while a tern is a situation where three numbers have been hit. The winnings depend on the number of numbers hit and the time of the draw.

3. Thematic raffles

Thematic raffles are organized on the occasion of special events, such as holidays (eg Christmas raffle) or sporting events. Cards and prizes are often adapted to the theme of the event, which makes the game more interesting and attractive for participants. For example, during the Christmas holidays, rewards may include gifts such as ornaments or candy.

4. Online raffle

Online versions of bingo are becoming increasingly popular due to their availability and convenience. Players can participate from the comfort of their home via apps or web platforms. Tombola online often offers additional functionality, such as automatic marking of numbers on the cards, which makes the game easier for beginners. Also, platforms offer various bonuses and promotions to attract new players.

5. Small and large raffle

In some variations of the game, a "small" and a "large" raffle are distinguished. The small raffle means winning prizes for smaller combinations (eg, ambo or terno), while the big raffle brings the main prize to the player who fills in the entire card first. This format is popular because it allows multiple winners during one game.

6. Charity raffles

Charitable or humanitarian raffles are organized with the aim of collecting funds for a specific cause, such as helping the vulnerable or supporting local communities. Cards are sold at a nominal cost, and prizes are often donated by local businesses or individuals.

7. Comparison of tombola, lotto and bingo

Although tombola, lotto and bingo are similar games based on luck, there are key differences between them:

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What is bingo and what do you need to play?

Tombola is a board game of chance played with balls numbered from 1 to 90 and cards with 15 numbers. You need balls, cards, a marker to mark the numbers, and a person who runs the game, known as a "caller". The game is often organized for prizes.

What are the raffle rules?

The game starts with balls being drawn at random and players marking the corresponding numbers on their cards. The goal is to match certain combinations of numbers (ambo, terno, cinquina, etc.), and when the player hits one, they announce it out loud to win a prize.

What are the strategies to increase your chances in bingo?

Although the raffle depends on luck, you can increase your chances by buying more cards. Also, keep a close eye on the drawn numbers in order to mark the ones on your card in time and increase your chances of winning.

Are there raffle variations?

Yes, there are different versions of the raffle, including the classic with 90 numbers on a raffle ticket, a raffle with a smaller number of balls (eg 75 or 80 numbers), themed raffles (such as Christmas or sports), online raffle, as well as small and large raffles.

How does raffle compare to bingo and lotto?

Although tombola, lotto and bingo are games of chance, they differ in rules and dynamics. Bingo uses 90 numbers and different combinations of numbers, lotto requires picking predetermined numbers, while bingo uses a card with a 5×5 grid and aims to fill in specific patterns.

Conclusion

The tombola game is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a simple and fun activity, either in the company of friends or at organized events. This game provides an opportunity to relax, laugh and, of course, win prizes. Given the variety of variations and possibilities it offers, tombola is suitable for all ages and can be adapted to different occasions, from private gatherings to large events. Regardless of whether you play at home or online, the bingo game will always entertain you and provide an unforgettable experience.