Bingo has been a popular game across the globe since the mid-20th century, and like many regions, Ireland developed its own unique take on it. This version—now commonly known as Irish Bingo—adds a distinct cultural twist while keeping the core elements that make the game enjoyable.
Today, Irish Bingo is featured in many online casinos and continues to appeal to players from various parts of the world. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what Irish Bingo is, how it differs from other formats, how to play, and some of the common calls you might hear along the way. Read on to learn more.
What Is Irish Bingo?
Irish Bingo is a variation of the classic bingo game, played not only in Ireland but also in various parts of the world. While it shares many similarities with traditional bingo, there are a few unique twists, particularly in the rules and how the game is presented.
You’ll find Irish Bingo being played in pubs, bingo halls, community centres, and online casinos. Some players describe it as a kind of “reverse” bingo, especially in more social or informal settings.
For instance, in certain land-based games, players may begin standing, and anyone who has a called number on their ticket sits down. The game continues until only one person remains standing. That said, the exact format may vary depending on the version being played, whether it's for entertainment, charity, or a competitive setting.
Irish Bingo Variations
Like many popular games, Irish Bingo comes in a few different forms to suit various preferences and playing styles. In this blog post, we’ll focus on three of the most commonly played variations: 75-ball bingo, 80-ball bingo, and 90-ball bingo. Each version offers its own layout, pace, and style of play, giving players plenty of choice when it comes to how they want to enjoy the game.
75 Ball Bingo
While 75-ball bingo is most commonly associated with the United States, it’s also played in Ireland and in other parts of the world. The game uses 75 numbered balls and a 5x5 grid, with the centre square usually marked as a free space.
To win in 75-ball bingo, players aim to complete a specific pattern on their card. This could be a straight line—horizontal, vertical, or diagonal—or a more complex shape, depending on the game rules. Known for its quick pace and shorter rounds, 75-ball bingo is ideal for players who enjoy a faster style of play.
80 Ball Bingo
80-ball bingo offers a middle ground between the slower pace of 90-ball bingo and the quicker style of 75-ball games. While it's considered an Irish variation, it’s also played in many other countries and is a popular option both online and in bingo halls.
The game is played with 80 numbered balls and a 4x4 grid. To win, players typically need to complete a line—whether horizontal, vertical, or diagonal—or, in some versions, fill the entire card to achieve a full house. This format strikes a balance in speed and complexity, potentially making it a good choice for players looking for something in between.
90 Ball Bingo
90-ball bingo is one of the most popular versions of the game, especially in Ireland, the UK, and many other countries. Played on a 9x3 grid with 90 numbered balls, this version offers a more traditional bingo experience. It’s widely available in both land-based and online casinos.
How Do You Play Irish Bingo?
Irish Bingo, like other variations of the game, is simple to play and appeals to a wide range of players. You can find it in most online casinos, including platforms like Wizard Slots, as well as in licensed land-based venues.
The game typically starts with bets as low as £0.10 per round. Before the game begins, players choose how many cards they want to play with, and then they simply wait for the caller or the screen to display the randomly drawn numbers. If any of these numbers match those on the player’s card, they can mark them off. If they’re playing online, the game will typically mark off the numbers for the player automatically, although they can typically still choose to do it manually if they prefer.
Winning depends on the specific rules of the game, but generally, a winning combination is created by completing a vertical, horizontal, or diagonal line, or by filling the entire card to achieve a full house.
Irish Bingo Calls
The calls in Irish Bingo are similar to regular bingo calls, but with a unique twist. Instead of simply announcing the number, the caller might use a colourful or playful phrase, which adds another dynamic to the game. For example, instead of saying "Number 90," the caller might shout, "Top of the Shop!"
These unique calls can make the game more entertaining and help to create a lively atmosphere. Here are a few of the interesting Irish Bingo calls you might hear while playing:
- 1 - Kelly's Eye
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46 - Up to Tricks
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47 - Four and Seven
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4 - Knock at the Door
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50 - Half a Century
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51 - Tweak of the Thumb
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7 - Lucky Seven
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17 - Dancing Queen
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66 - Clickety-Click
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22 - Two Little Ducks
Play Bingo Games Online
If you’re interested in playing Irish Bingo, you can visit Wizard Slots. Whether you prefer the classic 90-ball bingo, the fast-paced 75-ball version, or other variations, Wizard Slots offers a wide range of games for you to enjoy. Plus, with our casino being licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), you can play knowing everything is fair and secure.
Visit Wizard Slots to explore the bingo options we have available. Always gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.