Slingo is one of the most popular types of online casino games in the UK (and around the world, for that matter). It combines elements of slots and bingo to create a fast, fun gaming experience that offers a chance to win a real money prize.
But how is it different from slots or bingo? In this article, we explain all. We’ll cover similarities, differences, and anything else you need to know on the topic. Keep reading to find out more about Slingo casino games and how it all works.
An Introduction to Slingo
So, what exactly is Slingo? In case you haven’t played it before, we’ll explain how it works. Slingo is essentially a series of online games that blend elements of slots and bingo together in a simple format to create a fun new way to play. Most Slingo games are played on a 5x5 grid filled with numbers – a little like a bingo card.
A reel at the bottom of the grid is filled with numbers and other symbols (such as Wilds or Super Wilds), and the aim of the game is to match up symbols on the reels with those on the grid.
Match numbers to mark them off on the grid, with the aim of completing horizontal, vertical or diagonal lines – a bit like in bingo. Complete lines to move up a ladder on the side of the reels, either unlocking bonus games or bigger cash prizes as you go.
At the top of the ladder is a Full House prize, awarded for marking off every number on the grid.
There are Slingo versions of many of the most popular slot games, including Slingo Rainbow Riches and Slingo Monopoly, as well as lots of original Slingo titles. Slingo has been popular ever since it burst onto the scene in 1994, and it’s showing no signs of stopping!
How Does Slingo Compare to Slots?
Slingo is partly inspired by slot games. In particular, the reel beneath the Slingo grid works in the same way as a reel in a slot game. Although slot games usually have at least three reels - and are filled with symbols rather than numbers – both the Slingo reel and slot game reels function similarly.
Key Differences Between Slingo and Slot Games
There are a few main differences between Slingo and slot games. Here’s a quick summary:
Paylines
Most slot games have paylines. These are invisible lines on the reels that determine how wins are achieved. To achieve a winning combination, a certain number of matching symbols must be correctly aligned on a payline.
Since Slingo games only have one reel and the aim is not to match up symbols on this reel (but rather, with the grid above), they do not have paylines.
However, there are lines on the grid which must be completed in order to win a prize. Lines of five completed numbers, either horizontally, vertically or diagonally, are required to progress in Slingo.
Bet per Spin vs Bet per Game
In most slot games, your bet is placed per spin. This means that if you bet £0.10 on a slot game, £0.10 is deducted from your funds each time you press the spin button.
Slingo games usually consist of a consecutive number of spins, all included within the same bet. The minimum bet may be higher, but a certain number of spins are included. Bets are per game, which consists of x number of spins, rather than per spin.
For example, if you bet £1 (or £0.50, or £5) on Slingo Lucky Larry’s Lobstermania, you’ll get 10 consecutive spins. You’ll only need to press the spin button once, then spins will occur one after the other. The more money you bet on a Slingo game, the bigger the potential prizes will be.
At the end of a Slingo game, you’ll usually be given the option to buy extra spins if you want to continue playing. The price per spin varies, and will be clearly shown on the spin button.
How Does Slingo Compare to Bingo?
The grid element of Slingo, and the way numbers are matched up and marked off, is directly inspired by bingo games. Although in bingo winning lines are called ‘lines’ and in Slingo they are called ‘Slingos’, the concept is very similar. Prizes are awarded for completing lines, and in both games the top prize is awarded for marking off all of the numbers on the grid – this is known as a full house.
Key Differences Between Slingo and Bingo
Let’s take a closer look at some of the main differences between the two games:
Numbers vs Numbers and Symbols
One of the biggest differences between Slingo and bingo is the special symbols that can appear on the Slingo reel. We’re talking about Jokers, Super Jokers, Free Spin symbols, Devils and Coin instant win symbols.
Jokers allow you to mark off any number of your choice in the column above it, while Super Jokers let you choose from the remaining numbers in the entire grid. Free Spin symbols award a win at the end of the current game, Devils act as blockers, and instant win symbols can award an instant cash prize.
Bear in mind that these are just examples – some Slingo games have Jokers, Super Jokers and blockers, but they may not necessarily be in the form of jokers or devils. You’ll need to refer to the rules for the specific game you’re playing to check out what you might see on the reels.
In bingo, it’s only numbers that can appear, and in standard bingo games there are no special features.
Playing Independently vs Socially
Whether bingo games are played online or in person, they have a social element that relies on multiple people playing the same game, at the same time. The aim of the game is to be the first person to complete a winning pattern of numbers on your card. Online bingo games often have online chat rooms, where you can interact with fellow players.
Slingo games are more of an independent activity, and wins are not dependent on others playing the game at the same time as you. There are no Slingo chat rooms, but an advantage of this playing style is that you can play games whenever and wherever suits you best, without waiting for a start time like some bingo games.
Similarities Between Slingo, Slots and Bingo
Although these three types of game are distinct, they share many similarities. Here are some of the most important:
Outcomes Are Down to Chance
It can be tempting to believe that if you play a certain game, or make a particular bet, that you are guaranteed to win. However, the truth is that all outcomes in slots, Slingo and online bingo games are completely down to luck and chance.
In each of these games, outcomes are determined by an RNG – a Random Number Generator with a computer algorithm that cannot be predicted. Licensed casinos like Spin Genie have their RNGs tested regularly to ensure that they are fair, and any wins or losses are down to chance.
It’s true that it’s possible to use some degree of strategy in Slingo games, in terms of deciding which numbers to mark off if you land a Joker or a Super Joker. However, ultimately whether you win or lose still depends on which randomly generated numbers appear on the reel.
The Casino Has the Edge
The house edge, that is. The technicalities of this aren’t too important for us to go into right now - but it’s crucial to understand that whether you’re playing Slingo, slots, bingo or any other online casino game, the casino will always win in the long run.
That doesn’t mean that it’s not possible to scoop a big win – just that overall, the casino will always have the advantage over its players, because otherwise it would go out of business!
Which Is Better: Slingo, Slots or Bingo?
Surprise, surprise –there isn’t a definitive answer to this question! We’re not just trying to be awkward – it really depends on your preferences, and which type of game you prefer. We recommend trying a few different Slingo, slots and bingo games to see which you enjoy the most.
Although some people believe that Slingo is easier than slots, for example, we’re not buying it! While it’s true that some slot games can be a little complex, there are certainly very straightforward ones too.
And it’s not like you have to pick one type of game and stick to it – the joy of online casinos like Spin Genie is that you can play all kinds of different games, depending on what you fancy at the time.
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