Slingo, Bingo, and Slots are distinct gaming formats catering to various player preferences.
While Slingo combines elements of both Bingo and Slots, each game retains its unique mechanics and characteristics.
In this article, we’ll take a look at their differences to help you understand how they work and what sets them apart from one another.
The basics of Bingo
Bingo is a game of chance played on a card featuring a grid of numbers. Players mark off numbers on their cards as they are drawn, aiming to complete a specific pattern, such as a line or a full house.
The first player to achieve the required pattern wins the round.
Bingo is typically played in dedicated halls or online. It focuses on completing numbers from a pre-determined range. Each game follows a predictable structure, with the random draw of numbers central to its outcome.
How Slots work
Slots are based on spinning reels adorned with symbols.
Players wager credits and spin the reels, aiming to match specific symbol combinations across designated paylines. The results are determined by a random number generator (RNG), ensuring each spin is independent and fair.
Modern Slots often include additional features such as wild symbols, scatter symbols, and bonus rounds, which provide variety in gameplay.
Slingo: A hybrid game
Slingo merges elements of both Bingo and Slots into a single format.
Players are presented with a 5×5 grid, resembling a Bingo card, and a set of reels located beneath it. The aim is to match numbers or symbols on the grid by spinning the reels and marking off completed lines called Slingos.
Unlike traditional Bingo, Slingo incorporates mechanics such as jokers (wild symbols) that allow for strategic marking of numbers. At the same time, the reels provide randomised outcomes that are familiar to Slots. This combination introduces a different pace and level of interaction compared to either format on its own.
Key differences
3. Structure and gameplay
- Bingo revolves around marking off numbers drawn randomly, with the objective of completing a specific pattern.
- Slots rely on spinning reels and matching symbols along paylines, with various outcomes depending on the combinations.
- Slingo combines a Bingo-like grid with spinning reels, requiring players to complete lines within a limited number of spins.
2. Features and complexity
- Bingo is straightforward, with minimal additional features beyond the number draw.
- Slots vary widely in complexity, offering a range of features like bonus rounds and jackpots.
- Slingo adds strategic and interactive elements, such as blocking symbols or free spins, making it distinct from both formats.
3. Outcome determination
- Bingo and Slingo involve marking off numbers, while Slots are purely about matching symbols.
- All three formats are chance-based, with outcomes determined by randomisation.
Choosing between Slingo, Bingo and Slots
Your choice between these games may depend on your preference for structure, interaction, or variety in gameplay.
Bingo offers a more straightforward gameplay option, while Slots focus on fast-paced spins and symbol combinations. Slingo, as a hybrid game, provides a blend of features from both, introducing its own mechanics to create a unique style of play.
