Online bingo is one of our favourite types of game to play here at Slingo. We love the excitement of matching up numbers on our ticket in the hopes of getting one line, two lines, or even a full house! Slingo games were even inspired by bingo, so it’s certainly a game that’s close to our heart.
As online bingo continues to increase in popularity, there are more and more different types of bingo games to choose from. One of the latest innovations on the scene is the choice between public and private bingo games. Most games are public, meaning that anyone can join them, and there isn’t a limit on the number of players.
However, some private bingo games are becoming available – some are invite-only for certain players, and they often have a limited number of players. In this blog we’ll explain more about both options, so that you can decide which type of game might suit you best. Keep reading to find out more!
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What Are Bingo Rooms?
Online bingo rooms are essentially the virtual room where online bingo games take place. Each bingo game will have its own room, which is somewhat like a lobby where players can wait for games to start. Once you’ve entered the room you will be able to open a chat room to interact with other players, buy tickets and check out the cash prizes on offer. The game will be played in the bingo room – just like it would be played in a bingo hall if it was a physical game.
There are two main types of bingo rooms: public and private. Public bingo rooms can be accessed by all players with an account at the casino, while private ones may be invite-only, or just for players with a VIP membership. Private bingo rooms are more exclusive and tend to have a higher prize pot, while public games are open to everyone and are likely to be more beginner friendly.
Public Bingo Rooms
Public bingo rooms are accessible to all players at an online casino like Slingo. The only requirement to play the game is to purchase at least one ticket, and there can often be hundreds of players in any one game. These types of games are known for being highly sociable – since there are so many people available to chat, this makes for a lively gaming atmosphere with lots going on. Read our blog if you want to know more about bingo etiquette in chat rooms.
The player demographic is also very mixed, since these games attract both new and more experienced players. There are hundreds of public bingo games each day, and a range of prizes on offer. For example, some have fixed jackpots, while others are progressive, with a prize pot that increases as more players join the game.
Although these games appeal to lots of bingo players, there are a few potential drawbacks to be considered. These games tend to have a high number of players, which may increase competition. The chat rooms can also feel quite crowded, and the interactions may not be particularly personal.
Private Bingo Rooms
Private bingo rooms are restricted to just a few players, and they are usually invite-only. They might be for VIP players, players with a certain level of membership, or special events with a limited capacity. These games usually have bingo chat rooms too, but since there are less players there may be less interactions overall.
Some of the same players may participate in private bingo events frequently, offering an opportunity to get to know each other on a more personal level. Since these games are usually for more experienced players, the chat may be more likely to revolve around game strategy or odds than more general topics.
Private bingo games have fewer players than public games, which may feel less competitive due to fewer participants. However, it’s important to remember that whether you’re playing a public or a private game, all outcomes are ultimately down to chance and cannot be predicted.
Since private games are exclusive, they are likely to have exclusive prizes too – and possibly larger jackpots than public games. These types of games are unlikely to be played every day, and may occur only once per week, or even once a month.
However, this type of game may not appeal to all players. Some players prefer games with lots of players, rather than private games with a limited number of players. Others might be in search of games with a more active and interactive chat room, or those that are played more frequently.
Choosing the Right Type of Bingo Room for You
Whether you choose a public or a private bingo room depends on your preferences and playing style. It might also depend on something a little more concrete – if you don’t have access to any private games (remember, they’re usually exclusive or invite-only), then you won’t be able to play them.
If you do have the option to choose, it’s time to think about what you want to get out of your gaming experience. If you’re playing primarily for the social aspect and are looking for a fun, lighthearted atmosphere, you might be best suited to public games. However, if you’re more into focused gameplay and want to engage with those who take the game a little more seriously, private games could be right up your street.
As a rule of thumb, new players are usually more comfortable in public games, where they can learn the ropes and seek advice on how to play. Private games tend to be for more experienced players, who may be more competitive and focused on trying to win a prize rather than socialising.
It’s important to remember that you don’t have to choose one or the other exclusively. Sometimes you might feel more like playing a private game, whereas at other times a public game may take your fancy. We recommend trying both if you have the opportunity, so you can compare the two.
Pros and Cons of Public vs Private Bingo Rooms
Like everything, there are pros and cons for both public and private bingo rooms. Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:
| Category | Pros | Cons |
| Public bingo rooms | Lively and sociable | More competition |
| Available to play throughout the day | Can feel impersonal | |
| Suitable for beginners | Potentially smaller prizes on offer | |
| Private bingo rooms | More exclusive | Less chat interaction |
| Potentially bigger prizes on offer | Not widely accessible | |
| Less competition | Only available to play at limited times |
If you’re still not sure after looking at the table above, don’t panic! We always recommend trying a bit of everything, so that you can see which gaming style you prefer. Most of our players start with public games, since this is the default, and you can get a real feel for a traditional bingo game that has all the social elements that you would expect.However, as you get more experienced at online bingo you might decide to try private bingo rooms.
They can feel more personal, and you’re likely to be playing with more serious players who all love the game as much as you do. And if you’re the type of person who loves anything exclusive, private bingo rooms are likely to appeal!
Remember that public bingo rooms are usually available to play throughout the day, while private games are likely to be at a set time and will not occur as often as public games. You’ll need to be online at the right time to play them, so plan in advance!
Play Online Bingo at Slingo
Whether you prefer public or private bingo games, you can find them all here at Slingo. Our online casino has a range of online bingo games to choose from – whether you’re a newcomer or a more experienced player, you’re sure to find a game you love at Slingo. You can even make the most of an exclusive bingo bonus for new players on your first deposit, with 50 bingo tickets (plus 50 free spins on Starburst) up for grabs (T&Cs apply). Always play responsibly, and never spend more than you can afford to lose.
