90-ball bingo, widely known as Housie in Australia and New Zealand or Tombola in Italy and Southern Europe, is the dominant version of the game outside of North America. It is the standard format played in bingo halls across the United Kingdom and is famous for its unique ticket layout and three-stage winning structure.
If you are used to the 5x5 American grid, 90-ball bingo might look a bit different at first, but it is just as easy to learn and offers three chances to win in every single game!
The Ticket Layout (The Strip)
Unlike the square grid of 75-ball bingo, 90-ball bingo is played on rectangular tickets. - 3 Rows & 9 Columns: Each individual ticket has a grid of 3 rows and 9 columns (27 spaces total). - 15 Numbers: Each ticket contains exactly 15 numbers (5 per row) and 12 blank spaces. - The Strip: Tickets are usually sold in "strips" of 6. A full strip contains every number from 1 to 90 exactly once. This is the best way to play because it guarantees that every time a number is called, you will be able to mark it off on one of your tickets.
How Numbers are Arranged
The columns are organized by decade, making it easy to find your numbers quickly: - Column 1: Numbers 1–9 - Column 2: Numbers 10–19 - Column 3: Numbers 20–29 - Column 4: Numbers 30–39 - Column 5: Numbers 40–49 - Column 6: Numbers 50–59 - Column 7: Numbers 60–69 - Column 8: Numbers 70–79 - Column 9: Numbers 80–90
How to Play: The Three Stages
A standard game of 90-ball bingo is played in three stages, meaning there are three winners per game. The game continues with the same tickets until the final prize is won.
Stage 1: One Line
The first goal is to mark off all 5 numbers on any single horizontal line on one of your tickets. The first player to do this shouts "Line!" or "Bingo!" and wins the first (usually smallest) prize.
Stage 2: Two Lines
The game continues for the second prize. The goal is now to mark off all the numbers on any two lines on the same ticket. These lines must be on the same individual ticket, not spread across your strip.
Stage 3: Full House
This is the grand finale! The game continues until a player marks off all 15 numbers on a single ticket (all three lines). This is called a "Full House" and awards the biggest prize of the game.
Tips for Success
- Play a Full Strip: As mentioned, playing a strip of 6 tickets ensures you never miss a number. It keeps you engaged in the game on every single call.
- Watch the Board: In a noisy hall or a busy party, it can be easy to miss a call. Keep an eye on the master board if one is available.
- Use a Dabber: Because 90-ball is fast, using a specialized bingo dabber (ink marker) is much faster than using a pen or pencil.
Ready to Play?
You don't need to go to a bingo hall to enjoy Housie. You can host your own game at home! 1. Generate Tickets: Use our free 90-Ball Bingo Generator to create professional-quality strips. 2. Print: Print them out on standard paper. 3. Play: Use a random number generator app or a bag of numbered chips to call the game.
Whether you call it Bingo, Housie, or Tombola, it’s a game of luck, speed, and excitement. Good luck!