To the uninitiated, Bingo is one of those games where you can simply switch your brain off and hope for the best, because – if you trust Random Number Generation, which you should – there is nothing you can do to change the way the game goes. You can’t hold, hit, stand or split at the right time to lock in an advantage – so, on the bright side, you can’t do any of these things wrongly and mess it all up. Simple, mindless fun, right?
Wrong. In actual fact, there are ways of maximizing your chances at the bingo table, whether that’s in a hall near your home or an online bingo game on your phone using one of these non Gamstop bingo sites. Sure, you can’t do anything to make a win certain, but the same is true of any casino game or, unless you’re prepared to break the law, any sport at all. What you can do is leverage an advantage, which is not an inconsequential benefit.
Tip 1: Buy multiple cards
There is no number of cards you can buy that ensures you will win, so don’t go crazy on this one. Bingo cards do, after all, cost money. However, the more you have, the likelier it is that you will win. Take into account the size of a potential jackpot and purchase as many cards as you feel comfortable with considering your bankroll. In real life bingo, this is a tricky step because you then have to monitor more cards, but online they get marked automatically, so no worries there.
Tip #2: Thin out the herd
A very simple step, this. Figure out the times when there are likely to be fewer players in the game. These will likely be on weekdays, at later hours or when there’s something distracting on national TV. The fewer players there are, the more chance there is of you winning. Also, unlike with poker, the number of players will rarely affect the size of any winnings pot. Indeed, the games with larger prizes will usually attract more players, but you’ll be better off with a large chance of a smaller prize than a drastically reduced chance of a larger one. Over time, you’re likely to win more games and more money than if you target the big games.
Tip #3: Use the chat function
Most online bingo sites will have a social element to them, and it’s accurate to say that bingo fans in the main are a more relaxed and friendly bunch than most casino players. There’s a sense of camaraderie, and if you’re new on the scene they’ll usually be willing to offer tips and support. (Pay this forward, by the way, when you gain more experience and encounter a newbie). The chat rooms are also where you may find out about competitions and potential spot prizes, so if you’re not making use of them, you could be leaving money on the table.
There are also a few recommended strategies that are widely shared online, but these are generally of questionable effectiveness and may be a distraction you could do without. By sticking to the tips above, you will maximize your chances for success far more.