What Is American Bingo?

If you’ve only ever come across the British version of bingo, you might not realise that there are other formats played around the world. One of the most common alternatives is American Bingo, which you may also see listed as 75-ball bingo.

This blog will guide you through what American Bingo is, how it works, and how it differs from the UK version you’re more likely to find at local clubs or on British bingo sites. Whether you’re curious about trying something new, or just want to understand what you might expect from different bingo rooms—either online or in person—this guide explains it in a simple and clear way.

Bingo is classed as a game of chance. This means every number is drawn randomly, and there’s no system or skill that can predict what will come up next. That’s why understanding the rules and structure may help make the experience more enjoyable, especially if you’re playing responsibly and within your budget.

How Do You Play American Bingo?

American Bingo is played using a 5×5 square grid, which gives you 25 spaces in total. These spaces are filled with numbers ranging from 1 to 75. However, the middle square—right in the centre—is a free space. You don’t need to mark a number in that position; it counts automatically as filled in for every player.

When the game begins, numbers are drawn at random, either by a live caller or by a computerised system, if you’re playing online. Each number comes with a letter from the word “BINGO”, making it easier to locate on your card. For example, you might hear “G-48”, which means you’d check the “G” column for the number 48.

Your task is to try and match numbers on your card with the ones being called. The winning condition depends on the pattern chosen before the game begins. Patterns can be simple—like completing a horizontal or vertical line—or more complex, like forming an “X” shape or marking the four corners.

Unlike the UK version, where the goal is often to fill a row or the whole ticket, American Bingo tends to use these set patterns. Some games may use familiar patterns, while others may change frequently, especially online.

Because patterns vary and results are random, no outcome is guaranteed. The odds of winning will depend on how many players are in the game and how many tickets each person holds. A larger player base usually means more competition, which can affect your chances of being the first to complete a pattern.

Common American Bingo Calls

In American Bingo, each number from 1 to 75 is linked with one of five letters: B, I, N, G, and O. These letters correspond to the five columns on your bingo card.

Here’s how the numbering is typically broken down:

B column: Numbers 1–15
I column: Numbers 16–30
N column: Numbers 31–45
G column: Numbers 46–60
O column: Numbers 61–75

So, if you hear “B-12”, you know to check under the “B” column for the number 12. If you hear “O-70”, you’ll be looking in the “O” column.

Unlike British Bingo, which often features rhymes and phrases (such as “Two little ducks – 22”), American-style calls are typically plain and direct. This can help make the game easier to follow for beginners, especially if you’re unfamiliar with traditional bingo slang.

In many online versions of the game, called numbers are also displayed visually on your screen. This feature can help you keep track more easily, particularly if you’re new to the format or playing multiple cards.

US vs UK Bingo: What’s The Difference?

There are key differences between how bingo is played in the United States and the United Kingdom. One of the biggest differences is the format of the ticket.

In the UK, the most common version is 90-ball bingo. A standard ticket has three rows and nine columns, with five numbers in each row and four blank spaces. The numbers range from 1 to 90. Prizes are usually awarded for:

One line
Two lines
A full house (all numbers marked off)

In contrast, American Bingo (75-ball bingo) uses a square grid format. It has five rows and five columns, filled with numbers from 1 to 75. The centre square is free for all players. Potential winning patterns vary more often and might involve diagonal lines, shapes, or specific layouts chosen before the game starts.

You’ll also notice a difference in the way numbers are announced. In the UK, callers often use rhyming slang and phrases to entertain the room. In American Bingo, the caller simply states the letter and number combination. This straight-to-the-point style is commonly used both in live halls and online.

The pace and structure of the games can feel different too. UK bingo often offers more ways to possibly win in a single game, due to the three potential prizes. American Bingo might only offer one prize per round, depending on the pattern in play.

Online platforms may offer both versions, so it may be a good idea to check which game you’re entering. Reading the rules, checking the paytable (which shows how much you might win for each pattern), and understanding the structure can help you decide which version feels more suitable for you.

UK Bingo Rules Explained

In the UK, 90-ball bingo is the standard format you’re most likely to come across—whether you’re playing at a licensed bingo hall or on a regulated UK site.

A bingo ticket has three rows and nine columns. Each row shows five numbers and has four empty spaces. To include all 90 numbers used in the game, they are spread out across a group of six tickets, known as a strip.

As the numbers are drawn randomly—either by a human caller or an automated system—you mark off any that match what’s on your ticket. The aim is to be the first to match one full row, two full rows, or all 15 numbers on your ticket, depending on what stage of the game you’re in.

Here’s a breakdown of possible wins:

One line: Match all numbers on any one row
Two lines: Match all numbers on any two rows of the same ticket
Full house: Mark off all 15 numbers on the ticket

Online bingo may offer variations like potential jackpot games or linked rooms, where players from different sites or rooms play the same game with a larger possible prize pool. It’s worth noting that these options can differ from one site to another. The layout might be familiar, but prizes, patterns and ticket prices can change.

It may be a good idea to read the game rules and review the paytable before you start playing. While the basic structure may stay the same, certain special games may have slightly different formats or additional prizes.

Is US or UK Bingo Better?

There isn’t a “better” version of bingo—it depends on what kind of game structure you prefer. The key differences lie in the ticket format, game objectives, and style of play.

Some people enjoy the three-win opportunity in UK 90-ball bingo, while others might prefer the pattern-based style of US 75-ball bingo. If you prefer a more traditional approach with a slower pace, UK bingo might suit you. If you’re interested in exploring patterns and a slightly more varied structure, the American version could feel more entertaining.

What’s important is that you choose a game format that you’re comfortable with, especially if you’re new. Online sites that are licensed by the UK Gambling Commission will clearly show which version is being offered, along with the rules and any extra features.

There’s no strategy that guarantees a win in either format. Bingo is random, and every game is different. You may wish to set a limit on how much you spend or how long you play. Taking regular breaks can also help you stay in control of your experience.

If gambling stops being enjoyable or if you feel it’s becoming a problem, there is help available. You can visit BeGambleAware.org for free, confidential advice and tools that can support safer play.

Although Ivy Casino doesn’t offer American Bingo on our sites, we do offer a wide range of exciting casino games, such as online slots, blackjack and roulette.

_{*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.}

_{**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.}