Whether you are a new bingo player or you have dabbed countless tickets over the years, you will find plenty of bingo games on the market — including the 40-ball version. This is a fast-paced alternative to traditional bingo, with simple gameplay and compact tickets.
To help you get started, our beginner’s guide covers all the details you need to know (including the basics, the prizes, and more).
As you might expect based on the name, this bingo variation uses 40 numbered balls instead of the traditional 90. This increases the pace of play and creates shorter rounds, which is ideal for players who want to fit bingo into a busy schedule.
Due to its streamlined nature, 40 ball bingo may be a good option for beginners who want to experience online bingo without committing to a more involved game. Furthermore, checking for winning numbers across the columns is generally simpler than in traditional bingo, as the tickets are much smaller.
If you know how to play bingo generally, you should find this variation a breeze to learn. Your goal is the same as in other types of bingo: mark off numbers on your ticket when they are called to complete lines and win prizes.
As soon as numbers are revealed, you need to check your tickets to see if you have a match. Some games allow you to use auto dabbing to cross off numbers automatically, or you can do it manually instead.
Tickets contain eight numbers across four vertical columns and two horizontal rows — there are no blank spaces (unlike in some variations). Each column includes numbers within a specific range:
You can purchase multiple tickets for each round, though the number of tickets available will vary depending on where you play.
You can play this bingo variation at a range of sites online, but which are the best? To help you choose the right bingo site for you, we have picked the top options for UK-based players:
You may find some 40 ball bingo games have extra features for added depth and more chances to win. As features can differ from game to game, it is important to check before you decide on a specific option.
For example, one feature may award a special prize to players who only have one or two numbers left to mark off on their tickets when someone else achieves a Full House. This may not be the same as scooping a generous jackpot, but it can still give players who were close to winning a decent payout.
The jackpots available in 40 ball bingo differ depending on the game, too. There may be multiple smaller jackpots up for grabs rather than one large payout that increases progressively. Always check the prizes available in a bingo game to make sure you know what you are playing for.
When playing this bingo variation, you can win in different ways (depending on the game). These include:
Mark off all numbers on one horizontal line (e.g. across the top row).
Match all numbers in a specific pattern (e.g. creating a square).
Cross off every number on a ticket to win.
In this bingo variation, the emphasis is on speed and efficiency: buying tickets, checking numbers, declaring a winner, and moving on quickly. This can be a great option for players who want to complete more rounds of bingo within less time than would usually be required for traditional 90-ball games. It is also a good entry point for beginners.
As with playing any other real-money games, it is vital that you always gamble responsibly in 40 ball bingo. Only bet what you can afford to lose, and set a limit on the number of tickets you buy.
If you want to try a game or two but feel unsure about where to start, Gambling Zone has comprehensive information on the best sites for playing bingo online.