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Part 3: The digitalization of Jogo do Bicho and resistance to regulation
In recent years, Jogo do Bicho has had to partially migrate to the online environment. Websites, apps, and groups on some platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram have started offering betting options, making the game even more accessible. This new modality eliminated the need for physical points and runners, facilitating an even broader reach outside Rio de Janeiro, in places where these runners previously had no presence. We cover in much more detail how Jogo do Bicho came about and the corruption involved. Click here for part 1 and here for part 2.
Digital platforms also increased operational efficiency and security. In addition to avoiding police repression in the digital environment, this model also brought transparency to the draws. Or at least it was supposed to.
The impact that sports betting platforms have had in Brazil has created a competitive scenario for Jogo do Bicho in some ways. Many people who previously bet in the traditional way with the banker migrated to the digital format, following promotions, free bonuses, and a multitude of gaming options.
The regulation of Jogo do Bicho has gained space in the public sphere, and this issue has been discussed, but it is a topic that divides many opinions.
Those who defend regulation argue:
- Tax collection: The legal operation of Jogo do Bicho would generate significant revenue for the government, which might be directed towards safety, health, and education.
- More formal jobs: With the legalization of Jogo do Bicho, people who depend on the game’s informal income would be properly registered, also reducing the unemployment rate in the country.
- Control and oversight: It would also be possible to closely monitor operations and reduce the game’s link to corruption and other illicit activities.
Those against it also have their arguments:
- Resistance from bankers: The bankers, who have been in this operation for years, may resist these changes, mainly due to bureaucracy and fear of losing control and profit.
- Political and economic conflicts: The legalization of Jogo do Bicho would also face opposition from people who profit from the corruption associated with the game.
The current state of Jogo do Bicho
Nowadays, Jogo do Bicho remains illegal but continues to be practiced normally and widely accepted by society, especially in the region where it was born. Attempts to end the practice have not been effective, which is impressive considering the long history since its creation. The game is practically “institutionalized.”
The 25 animals and their meanings
The main characteristic of Jogo do Bicho – and the reason for its name – is the association with 25 different animals. Each represents a group of four numbers and, along with that, a meaning according to popular traditions.
The table below shows the 25 animals and their corresponding numbers:
| Animal | Numbers |
| Ostrich | 01, 02, 03, 04 |
| Eagle | 05, 06, 07, 08 |
| Donkey | 09, 10, 11, 12 |
| Butterfly | 13, 14, 15, 16 |
| Dog | 17, 18, 19, 20 |
| Goat | 21, 22, 23, 24 |
| Sheep | 25, 26, 27, 28 |
| Camel | 29, 30, 31, 32 |
| Snake | 33, 34, 35, 36 |
| Rabbit | 37, 38, 39, 40 |
| Horse | 41, 42, 43, 44 |
| Elephant | 45, 46, 47, 48 |
| Rooster | 49, 50, 51, 52 |
| Cat | 53, 54, 55, 56 |
| Alligator | 57, 58, 59, 60 |
| Lion | 61, 62, 63, 64 |
| Monkey | 65, 66, 67, 68 |
| Pig | 69, 70, 71, 72 |
| Peacock | 73, 74, 75, 76 |
| Turkey | 77, 78, 79, 80 |
| Bull | 81, 82, 83, 84 |
| Tiger | 85, 86, 87, 88 |
| Bear | 89, 90, 91, 92 |
| Deer | 93, 94, 95, 96 |
| Cow | 97, 98, 99, 00 |
The symbolism of animals
Each animal carries symbolism that goes beyond the numbers. For example:
- The lion is associated with strength and power, being a common choice for bettors who consider themselves lucky or confident.
- The butterfly, on the other hand, is seen as a symbol of transformation and lightness, representing bettors seeking changes in their lives.
These meanings often influence players’ choices, especially those who have dreams or specific events and interpret them as signs of luck.
Superstitions and the interpretation of dreams
In Brazilian popular culture, dreams are almost always interpreted as messages from the subconscious or destiny. For example:
- If the player dreams of water, they are likely to bet on the alligator (57-60).
- Dreaming of a party or joy may be interpreted by the player as a sign to bet on the peacock (73-76).
There is also the practice of consulting guides or tables that associate dreams with specific animals and numbers.
In addition to dreams, there are other ways to attract more “luck” for betting:
Some people believe that certain animals are more likely to win on specific days of the week.
Others wear specific colors or carry amulets before placing their bets, believing it will bring them luck.
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