Bingo is a game of chance, with players using cards that have five columns of five squares each. There are numbers in the squares, and the player has to listen for the numbers on their card to be called. When the number has been called out, the player marks it off the card. The player who marks off all the numbers first is the winner.
The caller picks the numbers from a basket or blower and announces them to the players. The caller selects each ball randomly. It is also the responsibility of the caller to let players know what game they are playing. The most common games are straight-line bingo and coverall.
When a number has been called, it is usually displayed on a large TV screen or monitors around the room. The corresponding light on the scoreboard is usually activated too. This is a way to remind the players what numbers have been called.
As a number is called, the player scans their card. If they have the number that has been issued they mark it off. Players find that the easiest and quickest way to mark multiple cards is with a “dabber” or “dauber”.
If the player has marked off all the numbers in the straight line or coverall, they call “Bingo” or “House” very loudly. The floorwalker will come and check the card and confirm if the player has won. If there is more than one call for the same game, the winnings will be shared equally.