The Art of Bluffing
Content Team
11 months ago
Picture this—you’re sitting at a poker table and your heart is racing as you stare at your opponents. You know your hand is weak, but you’re not ready to fold yet. Instead, you boldly move on and place a large bet, hoping to bluff your opponents into thinking you have a winning hand.
Bluffing is an art form, a skill that can give players an advantage. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning of bluffing, the strategies, tips, and semi-bluffs so that you can take your poker game to the next level.
What Is Bluffing?
Bluffing is a skill that involves attempting to deceive or mislead others, often by making them believe in something that’s not true.
The Cambridge dictionary describes bluffing as meaning “to deceive someone by making them think either that you are going to do something when you really have no intention of doing it, or that you have knowledge that you do not really have.”
Bluffing is often associated with card games, mainly poker, where players use various tactics to mislead opponents. In poker, bluffing involves making other players believe you have a stronger hand than you do, with the ultimate goal of winning the pot.
Bluffing requires skill, strategy, reading, and understanding other people’s behavior and reactions.
Poker Bluffing – The Player’s Secret Weapon
For poker players, bluffing is like a hidden superpower that can help turn the tables in their favor. It’s the art of making calculated bets or raises to mislead opponents and win the pot. But bluffing isn’t just about luck or instinct; it’s a skill that requires practice.
Knowing when to bluff and hold back is critical to using this secret weapon. Skilled players have a specific bluffing skill set that enables them to maximize their expected value and profit the most through bluffing. By incorporating bluffing into their game, players can keep their opponents on their toes and create opportunities to win big.
In addition to knowing when to bluff, you must know how to read players’ tells.
How to Bluff in Poker
To bluff in poker, you must selectively and aggressively bet or raise with a weak hand to get your opponents to fold their stronger hands. To be successful, you need to consider the following factors:
- Gameplay dynamics at your table: You should consider the types of players at your table, their positions, and their chip stacks when deciding whether to bluff.
- Stakes: Bluffing is more challenging at lower stakes because players tend to be more “call-happy.” As you move up to higher stakes, you may need to incorporate more bluffs into your strategy.
- Several players in the game: The more players at the table, the less likely you are to bluff successfully.
- Your reputation at the table: If you’ve been playing aggressively or have been caught bluffing recently, your opponents may be more likely to call your bluffs. In these situations, you should focus more on value betting.
- The tendencies of your opponents: If your opponents are known to call frequently, you may want to avoid bluffing. Conversely, if your opponents are known to fold too often, you can exploit this by bluffing more often.
- Look for poker tells: If you can pick up on any tells from your opponents, such as nervousness or hesitation, this can help you decide whether to bluff.
- Hide your tells: Conversely, you should also be aware of your tells and take steps to hide them by maintaining a consistent betting pattern or facial expression.
- The type of game you’re playing: The bluffing strategies in deep-stack cash games may differ from those in short-stack tournaments. You should adapt your strategy accordingly.
- Your bankroll situation: Being properly bankrolled can give you the confidence to bluff without worrying about losing a significant portion of your bankroll.
Evaluating these factors allows you to decide when and how often to bluff. With practice and experience, you can become a successful bluffer and increase your chances of winning at the poker table.
Notably, draw poker is perfect for poker bluffing skills and strategies, among other types of poker games.
Poker Bluffing Strategy
Poker bluffing strategy is a critical component of the game, and it involves choosing the right bet size and frequency based on the possible hands in your range. To do this effectively, you must first understand the two types of hand ranges that players usually choose from—polarized and linear/merged fields.
- A polarized range is a hand range that includes very strong hands or weak hands (bluffs). These ranges have a larger bet size.
- A linear/merged range includes strong hands, some medium-strength hands, and some weak hands. These ranges have a smaller bet size.
To understand the range better, you should check our guide to poker hand rankings.
When deciding how much to bet, you must consider all the possible hands in your range and choose the sizing and frequency that will take them into account. This will help you determine which indicators will be the best bluff candidates and which ones you can include for value.
Bluffing on the river is different from bluffing on the flop and turn. Once all the community cards are out, the equities of hands are fully realized, and you will either have the best hand or not. Equities often run much closer together on the flop and turn, so it’s acceptable to bluff more often.
Betting bigger on the river (using a more polarized approach) allows for more frequent bluffing. For instance, if you bet $100 into a pot of $50, your opponent is getting odds of 3 to 2 (or 1.5 to 1), meaning they must call and win 40% of the time to profit. You should include 60% value hands and 40% bluffs in your range.
Bluffing in Poker: Tips & Tricks
Bluffing is an essential part of poker but is more challenging than it sounds. To bluff successfully, you need to have a solid strategy in place. Here are five unique tips to help you improve your bluffing skills:
- Pay attention to your opponent’s betting patterns: Study your opponent’s preflop tendencies. This will help you gauge their hand’s strength and determine whether a bluff will be successful.
- Be selective with your bluff hands: Don’t bluff with every weak hand in your range. Instead, carefully select the arrows that would be the best to bluff with based on your opponent’s tendencies, your bet size, and the number of valuable hands.
- Don’t overuse your bluffs: Avoid over-bluffing by not attacking every sign of weakness from your opponent. This will help you maintain your credibility at the table and make your bluffs more effective in the long run.
- Take advantage of the opponent’s weaknesses: Instead of focusing on balanced strategies, turn the tables on your opponents whenever possible. This approach is efficient at smaller-stakes games.
- Use consistent bet sizing: When bluffing, use the exact bet sizing as your value bets. This will prevent your opponents from picking up on your bluffing patterns and exploiting them.
Semi-Bluff
You might have asked yourself—what is bluffing? But do you know what semi-bluffing is? Well, semi-bluffing is a tactic where a player bets with a low-value hand in hopes of improving it on future streets. By betting on draws, players can create a larger pot and deny their opponent’s equity realization, potentially winning the pot.
There are four hand categories that you can sort into
- Strong-made hands
- Marginal-made hands
- Draws
- Air
You should generally bet with Categories 1 and 3 and check with Categories 2 and 4. For semi-bluffing on the flop and turn, a good rule is to have one value hand for every two bluffs on the flop, one value hand for every one bluff on the turn, and two value hands for every one bluff on the river.
The best hands to semi-bluff with are those with little to no showdown value. It’s also essential to know which draws to bet with to check with combo draws and select combos of Ace-high flush draws.
How to Tell If Someone Is Bluffing in Poker
When spotting a poker bluff, paying attention to your opponents and any possible tells is essential. Observe the body language, such as tense or relaxed muscles. A player looking stiff could indicate a bluff, while a casual player may have a strong hand.
Another thing to look for is eye movements. Pupil dilation often means a strong hand. Genuine nervousness or excitement can also be an indicator of strength or weakness. For example, shaky hands may show nervousness and a bluff, while excitement can mean a strong hand.
How a player bets can also provide information about the strength of their hand. Sliding a large pile of chips forward can indicate power, while grandiose gestures may indicate a weak hand. The denomination of chips used for a bet can also be an indicator, such as using more chips than necessary to try and intimidate opponents.
It’s important to remember that these are just general tells and not always true for every player. By paying close attention to your opponents and picking up on their body language, you can become a better hand-reader and more skilled at spotting bluffs.
Conclusion
Bluffing is an integral part of poker and requires skill, strategy, and the ability to read other people’s behavior and reactions. Knowing when and how to bluff is critical to using this secret weapon effectively.
It’s essential to consider gameplay dynamics, the number of players, your reputation at the table, and your opponents’ tendencies. Remember to choose your spots carefully and balance between bluffing and value betting to increase your chances of winning.
With practice and experience, you can become a skilled bluffer and take your poker game to the next level.
FAQ
What does bluffing mean?
Bluffing means attempting to deceive or mislead others, often by making them believe something is not true.
What is an example of bluffing?
An example of bluffing in poker is when a player pretends to have a strong hand by making aggressive bets to make their opponents fold.
What is the synonym of bluffing?
Synonyms for bluffing are deceiving, misleading, or tricking.
Understanding betting odds is crucial to mastering online sports betting. The array of numbers, symbols, and formats can make you wonder how to approach it. Our objective is not just to explain the betting odds but to equip you with the knowledge to use them to your advantage.
What Are Betting Odds?
Betting odds provide a numerical representation of the likelihood of various outcomes. Essentially, odds refer to both the chance of a particular outcome occurring and the potential financial return on a bet placed in anticipation of that outcome.
When a bettor places a wager, the odds at that time dictate the potential payout. Higher odds indicate a lower probability of the event happening, reflecting a higher reward for bettors willing to take on the risk. Conversely, lower odds suggest a higher likelihood of occurrence, offering smaller rewards for more probable outcomes.
The concept of odds is not just about predicting winners or losers but understanding the value proposition behind each bet. Odds in betting reflect the bookmaker's assessment of the probability of each outcome, but they also include a margin to ensure profitability. As a result, savvy bettors look beyond who they think will win and consider the odds's value. By comprehending the nuances of odds, bettors can better strategize and manage their bankrolls. This kind of strategizing applies to everything from the most popular and niche sports betting to less common esports betting.
Calculating Odds
Sports betting odds are calculated based on the probability of an outcome, adjusted by the bookmaker's margin and other market factors to ensure profitability and reflect the betting market accurately. Bookmakers utilize complex algorithms and expert knowledge to assess all factors that could influence the outcome. By grasping the basics of sportsbook odds and how they reflect the probability of outcomes, punters can assess the value of each bet more effectively.
How to Read Odds
Understanding how to read betting odds is crucial for making informed decisions on where to place your bets. By familiarizing yourself with the following formats, you can strategically plan your wagering to maximize potential returns:
Decimal odds of 2.00 mean you double your money if you win (your stake plus the same amount as profit).
Fractional odds of 1/1 (even money) also mean you double your money.
American odds of +100 are the equivalent of decimal odds of 2.00 and fractional odds of 1/1.
What Do the + and - Mean in Sports Betting?
Minus (-) and plus (+) symbols are key to gauging your potential payout, whether you're betting on the favorite or the underdog. The minus (-) sign is typically assigned to the favorite, indicating the amount you need to bet to win $100. For example, if a team has odds of -150, it means that a bettor would need to wager $150 to win $100 in profit if that team wins.
Conversely, the plus (+) sign marks the underdog, showing how much profit you'd make from a $100 bet. For instance, if a team has odds of +200, it means that a $100 bet on that team would pay out $200 in profit if they win, in addition to getting back the initial $100 bet.
Factors Behind Odds Variation
Bookmakers offer varying odds for the same sports event, reflecting their assessments. When you bet on football, for instance, the bookmaker might list a team at +130 while another offers +120 for the same outcome. Odds are subjective, based on the bookmaker's perception of an event's probability rather than a precise calculation.
The diversity in odds across bookmakers means savvy bettors can find value, leveraging their knowledge of the sport and betting principles to gain an edge. While sports betting is inherently challenging, understanding these nuances can improve your chances of making profitable wagers.
Advantage of High Odds
High odds in sports betting typically indicate that bookmakers consider an outcome less likely to occur. However, the potential reward for betting on such outcomes is correspondingly higher, offering bettors the chance to win more money relative to their stake. Whether higher odds are more beneficial depends on a bettor's strategy, risk tolerance, and the specific circumstances of the event being wagered on.
Advantages of high odds:
Higher payouts: The most apparent advantage of high odds is the potential for higher payouts. Betting on an underdog or an unlikely outcome can yield significant returns if the bet proves successful.
Value betting: High odds can sometimes represent value bets. If you believe the probability of an outcome is higher than what the bookmakers suggest, betting on high odds can offer excellent value.
Excitement factor: For some bettors, the thrill of potentially winning a large payout from a small stake makes betting on high odds attractive.
Moneyline or American Odds Defined
Moneyline odds, also known as American odds, is a popular way of representing odds in sports betting, particularly in North America. It shows the odds for a particular outcome in terms of how much you need to wager to win $100 or how much you would win for a $100 wager.
Let's use a hypothetical example of a basketball game between Team A and Team B to explain how American odds work. The Team A moneyline is -110, while the Team B moneyline is +120.
The negative odds indicates that Team A is the favorite. A moneyline of -110 means that in order to win $100 in profit, you would need to wager $110. So, if you bet $110 on Team A and it wins, you would receive a total payout of $210 ($110 initial bet + $100 profit).
The positive odds indicates that Team B is the underdog. A moneyline of +120 means that a $100 bet on Team B would yield a profit of $120 if they win. So, if you bet $100 on Team B and it wins, you would receive a total payout of $220 ($100 initial bet + $120 profit).
This means that Team A is considered more likely to win, according to the oddsmakers, but you would need to risk more money to profit from a bet on Team A. On the other hand, betting on Team B carries higher potential winnings because they are considered less likely to win.
Calculating Implied Probability with American Odds
Implied odds suggest the likelihood of a specific outcome happening, expressed as a percentage. This tells us how likely an event is to occur according to the odds. If you think the chance of an event happening is different from what the sportsbook suggests, you might adjust your bet accordingly.
For example, if you believe a team has a 60% chance of winning, but the sportsbook's implied probability is 52.4%, it might be a good opportunity to bet.
Remember to include the vig or the bookmaker's fee when you convert odds to percentages. The total implied probability exceeds 100%, showing the bookmaker's profit margin. Removing the vig helps you see the odds that oddsmakers expect for the game.
Calculating implied probability can be summarized as:
Risk/Return = Implied Probability
While this formula is straightforward in theory, it can be complex to apply it.
Decimal Odds in Sports Betting
Before the widespread adoption of decimal odds, betting markets in Europe, Canada, and Australia primarily utilized them. Today, nearly all major online bookmakers worldwide use decimal odds as their standard, except for some US-based bookies.
Decimal odds are regarded as the simplest to understand among various odds formats. Unlike American odds, they encompass both the total payout and the stake per unit wagered. For instance, a bet at odds of 1.5 means that for every $1 staked, the total return would be $1.50. Similarly, a bet at odds of 2.25 results in a total return of $2.25 for every $1 staked. A bet at even money, represented as odds of 2, doubles the stake, returning $2 for every $1 wagered.
To calculate your total payout using decimal odds, multiply your stake by the decimal odds of the bet. This calculation gives you the total amount you would receive, including your original stake, making it a straightforward method to determine potential winnings.
Working Out Implied Probability with Decimal Odds
Implied probability: 1 / decimal odds
As an example, the following equation can be used to estimate Tampa Bay's implied probability of winning:
Implied probability: 1 / 2.40 = 41.7%
And Cleveland's chances of winning:
Implied probability: 1 / 1.61 = 62.11%
Understanding Fractional Sports Betting Odds
Fractional odds are most common in events like the Kentucky Derby, displayed on sports betting sites as figures like 9/5 or 1/2 and referred to as "nine to five" or "one to two." These odds indicate the ratio of profit to the stake. The number on the left (the numerator) shows how often the bookmaker expects the outcome to fail, while the number on the right (the denominator) indicates the expected successful outcomes.
Examples of Fractional Odds
Consider a hypothetical match where Gennady Golovkin fights Canelo Alvarez with odds of 8/13. This suggests that for every 21 matches (8 losses + 13 wins), Golovkin is expected to win 13 times, giving him a 61.9% chance of winning (13 wins out of 21 total events).
For Alvarez, imagine odds of 11/2 in a scenario where the fight occurs 19 times. This implies Alvarez would win 8 out of these 19 times, resulting in a 42.1% chance of victory.
Calculating Potential Winnings
To calculate potential winnings for Golovkin at 8/13 odds on a $10 bet, you use the ratio to find the profit ($10 * 0.615 = $6.15). Thus, your total return would be $16.15 ($10 stake + $6.15 profit).
When betting $10 on Alvarez with hypothetical odds of 11/2, your potential winnings are $10 * 1.375 = $13.75, leading to a total payout of $23.75 ($10 stake + $13.75 profit).
The Concept of Vigorish (Vig)
The total probability exceeding 100% (e.g., 61.9% + 42.1% = 104%) illustrates the bookmaker's overround or vig, ensuring profit regardless of the outcome. This overround is why the combined implied probabilities of all possible outcomes often exceed 100%.
Maximizing Success with Favorable Betting Odds
In sports betting, discerning what good betting odds are and how odds work is key to long-term success. They are not merely numbers that appear favorable at first glance. They represent a deeper understanding of value, risk, and potential return. Identifying such odds involves a blend of analysis, intuition, and strategy, laying the groundwork for informed and thoughtful betting decisions.
Favorable odds increase your chances of placing a winning bet while providing a satisfactory return on investment. The pursuit of such odds should be at the heart of your betting strategy, guiding your decisions and shaping your approach to sports betting.
July 14, 2022
Posted by Content Team
The callers at Bingo and the nicknames for the numbers are both integral parts of Bingo’s electrifying entertainment value. It’s a bonus to wait for your number to be called in a funny and sometimes cheeky way, along with the thrill of marking off your numbers and winning prizes.
Today, bingo fans can play a classic game of Bingo on an online bingo site, where the numbers are selected by a random number generator (RNG), thanks to modern technology. However, if you visit your local Bingo Hall, you’ll hear the catchy and witty Bingo calls you’re familiar with.
Depending on the setting, formal or informal, bingo calls can be customized to fit the occasion. Here, we list and explain some of the all-time favorites and some of the new bingo calls doing rounds today.
What Are Bingo Calls?
Bingo calls serve as individual clarifiers for the 90 numbers displayed during a game. These unique nicknames arose as practical solutions for distinguishing similar-sounding numbers, particularly in noisy environments. This linguistic creativity has roots in London's bingo halls and has since evolved, incorporating elements of pop culture.
Understanding these calls is a key aspect of learning how to play bingo, as they add both fun and clarity to the game. The following section provides a detailed list of bingo numbers alongside their corresponding calls, shedding light on the variations that emerge from different regions and caller styles.
Traditional Bingo Calls
Traditional bingo calls resonate with a sense of historical importance, nostalgia, and charm. Each call, unique in its own right, transforms more than just a number. They are associated with stories, origins, or rhymes, adding depth to the bingo names for numbers.
As players navigate the bingo calls list, they experience a journey through a rich cultural tapestry. The bingo calling numbers 1–90 are not just a sequence but a collection of narratives, each with its unique flair. The list below goes beyond mere calls; it delves into the heart of the game, revealing the creativity and tradition behind bingo number rhymes.
NumberBingo callBrief explanation1 Kelly's eyeMilitary slang term. Possibly linked to the outlaw Ned Kelly.2One little duckThe number two visually resembles a duck.3Cup of teaA playful rhyme with a British touch4Knock at the doorEchoing a line from a children's rhyme5Man aliveA rhyming phrase6Half a dozen Tom MixStraightforward count Tribute to a Western film star7Lucky sevenUniversally recognized as a lucky number8Garden gate One fat ladyA rhyming code "8" resembles a voluptuous figure9Doctor's ordersOriginates from a military laxative pill number10(Prime Minister's) den Customizable with the current Prime Minister11Legs elevenThe number looks like a pair of legs12One dozenSimply twelve units13Unlucky for someReflects superstition around the number 1314Valentine's dayMarks the date of the romantic holiday15Young and keenRhymes and reflects youthful enthusiasm16Sweet sixteenCelebrates this coming-of-age milestone17Dancing queenReference to the famous ABBA song18Coming of ageSignifies adulthood in the UK19Goodbye teensMarks the end of teenage years20One scoreA traditional counting term for 2021Key of the door Royal saluteAge of independence Military tradition22Two little ducksThe number resembles two ducks23The Lord is my shepherd Thee and meBiblical psalmAn old rhyme24Two dozenSimply 2425Duck and diveVisual and rhyming play with 2 and 5.26Half a crownOld British currency reference27Gateway to heavenA rhyme linking to divinity28In a stateDerived from Cockney slang29Rise and shineEncouraging a bright start30Dirty GertieFrom a wartime song31Get up and runEnergizing call to action32Buckle my shoeFrom a popular nursery rhyme33Dirty knee Fish, chips, and peasRhyme Classic meal34Ask for moreA follow-up rhyme to 3335Jump and jiveEvokes a lively dance36Three dozenA simple multiplication37More than 11Factually, more than 1138Christmas cakeAnother Cockney slang phrase39StepsRefers to the movie The 39 Steps40Naughty 40 Life beginsRhyming fun A proverb about life's start41Time for funRhymes with the desire for enjoyment42Winnie the PoohRhymes with the beloved children's character43Down on your kneesA phrase from military history44Droopy drawersA humorous visual rhyme45Halfway thereMidpoint in a game of 90-ball bingo46Up to tricksSuggests playful mischief47Four and sevenSimply the numbers stated48Four dozenAnother straightforward count49PCA nod to an old police series50Half a century It's a bullseye!5 – 0, 5 – 0, it's off to work we goFifty years Darts scoreSnow White reference51Tweak of the thumbA rhyming phrase52Danny La Rue Deck of cardsTribute to the entertainer Number of cards in a deck53Here comes Herbie! Stuck in the treeDisney car reference Visual rhyme54Clean the floor Man at the doorRhymes with 5455Snakes aliveRhymes and resembles snakes56Was she worth it? Shotts busOld marriage license cost Local reference57Heinz varietiesFrom the company's slogan58Make them waitA simple rhyme59Brighton lineRefers to a train line60Grandma's getting frisky Five dozenHumorous age reference Count61Baker's bunA playful rhyme62Tickety-boo Turn the screwPressure phrase Rhymes with 6263Tickle meRhymes, a light-hearted call64Almost retired Red rawOn the cusp of retirement age Rhymes with 6465Old age pensionThe milestone age for pension eligibility66Clickety clickRhymes with 6667Stairway to heavenInspired by the famous Led Zeppelin song68Pick a mate Saving graceEncourages choosing a companion A phrase denoting a fortunate turn69Any way up A favorite of mineThe number looks the same upside-down Referring to the 69 sex position70Three score and 10A biblical way of saying 7071Bang on the drumSuggests making a celebratory noise72Six dozenA simple multiplication, twelve times six73Queen beeRhymes, suggests authority or a pivotal figure in a group74Hit the floor Candy storeAn invitation to dance A sweet treat75Strive and striveRhymes with 7576TrombonesA reference to the musical number in the show The Music Man.77Sunset StripA nod to the famous TV show7839 more stepsA clever doubling of the number 3979One more timeRhymes with 7980Gandhi's breakfast Eight and blankA pun on "ate nothing" Simply "8" and a space81Stop and run Fat lady with a walking stickRhymes, a contradictory phrase Visual imagery of the number82Straight on throughRhymes with 8283Time for teaRhymes, a quintessentially British phrase84Give me moreRhymes85Staying aliveA reference to the popular Bee Gees song86Between the sticksA soccer term for the goalkeeper's position87Torquay in DevonA geographical reference to a place in the UK88Two fat ladiesThe shape of the numbers resembles two women side by side89Nearly thereIndicates being close to the end90Top of the shopHighest number in bingo
Modern and Funny Bingo Calls
As bingo continues to evolve and adapt to modern times, its calls also undergo a transformation. This dynamic shift in calls is a reflection of contemporary cultural influences, evident in the updated list of modern bingo calls.
These new calls often draw inspiration from recent events, celebrities, and current trends. They represent a fresh take on the classic game, injecting humor and relevance into every round. As for funny bingo calls, they add entertainment, often eliciting smiles from players.
While traditional calls hold a special place in the hearts of many, these bingo callouts provide a refreshing change, and we'll go over some of them now in the table below.
NumberModern Bingo CallsBrief explanation1One DirectionA nod to the famous British boy band2Doctor WhoA tribute to the iconic British sci-fi television series8Tinder dateReflecting modern dating culture, where swiping right can lead to a date9Selfie timeCapturing the era of smartphones and the selfie craze14Netflix and chillA popular phrase indicating a relaxed night in, often with romantic implications.15Yass queenA phrase of empowerment, popular in gay culture22Tay TayA playful reference to Taylor Swift, the renowned pop singer48Not another Brexit debateA humorous nod to the seemingly endless discussions about Brexit49Amazon PrimeSignifying the era of rapid online shopping and streaming services71J-Lo's bumCelebrating the famous pop star Jennifer Lopez, known for her curves86Instagram picsRepresents the culture of sharing life moments on Instagram88Wills and KateReference to the royal couple, Prince William and Kate Middleton
The Origin Story of Bingo Nicknames
The tradition of using rhymes with bingo numbers dates back to mid-20th century London. Initially, these rhymes served a unique purpose, functioning as coded messages or secret lingo among groups.
When bingo started to gain popularity, players in bingo halls adopted these ingenious rhymes as a practical tool to distinguish between similar-sounding numbers. For instance, distinguishing between 15 and 50 in a bustling hall became easier with these unique nicknames.
As bingo grew in popularity even more, these original rhymes evolved, resulting in new bingo phrases that varied from one region to another. Each district added local culture and humor to the mix. This evolution transformed bingo calls into a colorful mosaic of expressions, reflecting the diversity and creativity of bingo communities worldwide.
To Call or Not to Call? The Bingo Lingo Dilemma
Whimsical nicknames assigned to bingo balls have been a topic of debate among bingo callers. Is it better to stick to straightforward, clear number announcements or embrace the fun and playful aspect of bingo lingo? This dilemma often boils down to personal preference and audiences' expectations.
The UK's first female bingo caller, Mandy Gorgan, offers a unique perspective. Prioritizing clarity and focus in her calling style, Mandy chooses not to use traditional calls like "legs 11." She argues that with significant sums of money involved in the game, silly lingo can be more distracting than entertaining.
Beacon Bingo Club's assistant manager, Mark Wilson, notes a shift in trends, highlighting that certain traditional calls like 88 have become outdated. "It's very cheesy," he remarks, suggesting a continuous evolution of bingo lingo.
The Internet's Influence on the Evolution of Bingo Calling Numbers
The digital age has played a significant role in transforming bingo, particularly in how bingo nicknames are used and shared. With the rise of online gambling, bingo fanatics from the UK and beyond can connect and play free bingo, sharing regional sayings and enjoying camaraderie. This online interaction has helped spread bingo calls more widely than ever, keeping them vibrant and evolving.
Playing bingo, whether on online bingo sites, in a pub, or in a traditional bingo hall, isn't just about the game; it's about the community. The humorous banter over various calls and numbers adds to the fun, creating bonds among players who share laughs and the thrill of the game. This sense of community is a key reason why bingo remains one of the most beloved gambling games worldwide.
August 2, 2022
Posted by Content Team
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Christmas is the time when everyone gets into the holiday spirit. It's also the perfect time for Christmas casino promotions. Online casinos take this opportunity every year to create special bonuses designed to entice you to play during the holiday season.
These bonuses come in the form of a match bonus, cashback, Christmas no deposit casino bonuses or free spins, and even a combination of these types.
In this article, you'll learn what Christmas promos consist of, different types of Xmas bonuses and promotions, and how to choose and claim top Christmas online casino promos.
[sigma-top-casinos-new term_id = '50585' christmas="yes"]
What Are Christmas Casino Promotions?
Online casinos offer innovative and enticing bonuses that new or regular players can use during Christmas. You can use some of the Xmas bonuses on slot games, sports, or special games.
Comparing Christmas casino bonuses to regular bonuses and promotions, Xmas casino offers are a bit different:
During Christmas, online casinos and sportsbooks offer more generous bonuses for their visitors.
These Xmas promotions have lower wagering requirements.
The promotional period is shorter, only during the Christmas season.
Christmas promos can only be used in Christmas-oriented casino games.
What Types of Christmas Promotions Are There?
No matter if you’re new to the casino world, an experienced poker player, or a slots fan, you'll certainly want to use some of the Christmas promotions.
The following bonuses and promotions you can expect at online casinos during Christmas.
Christmas sign-up (welcome) bonus offers
To all new players, online casinos give welcome bonuses when upon first deposit, so you can explore their games, find the one you like and spin the reels until you get lucky. What’s different during Christmas? Well, online casinos lower the rollover requirements and increase the number of spins or bonus money to spice up your experience.
Xmas free spins
Online casinos regularly offer free spins for games in their offer, but for the Christmas period, they usually add an additional number of spins. For example, for slot games where you can get at least 20-30 extra free spins, sometimes that number can go way up.
Christmas calendar
Besides bonuses and promotions during Xmas, some casino sites have a Christmas calendar where each day, their users can expect something new, which adds an extra layer of excitement during winter holidays.
Christmas slot tournaments
As you might have noticed, there are many Christmas-themed slots, and during Christmas, these slots can have bigger cash prizes. There are even slot tournaments for specific slot games, and in this post, I’ll suggest some tournaments in which you can participate.
No-deposit casino Christmas bonus
At the time of Christmas, online casinos offer no deposit bonuses to new players after registration, after which you’ll have additional free money to use on slots. The bonus cash from this promotion usually is added automatically to your casino account.
Christmas no deposit bonus codes
This type of code you can find on the casino site of your choosing, but we recommended a few in this article that you can use during the Xmas time. Once you enter the code, the free money or free spins will be added to your account.
Xmas Giveaways
When the Christmas period is nearby, online casinos sometimes can offer electronic devices or even a car as prizes in their tournaments.
How to Choose a Christmas Promotion at Online Casinos?
If you plan on playing slot games or participating in Christmas events, you should know how to choose Christmas perks:
Check where each bonus can be used
Check the terms and conditions of each bonus or promotion.
You can see in what games you can use certain bonus
What are the wagering requirements
What is the validity period
Other conditions
How to Claim the Christmas Online Casino Bonus
If you’re new to the world of online casinos and want to take advantage of the Christmas casino promotions, on this page, you’ll see some great promos you can use during the winter holidays. As a new gambler who wants to use Xmas bonus, you need to claim the bonus at the online casino:
1. Register at the online casino of your choosing
Find the casino with games you wish to play and features you want to see at casino sites. When you choose the one, go to its registration page, provide your personal details, and follow instructions in order to do everything properly. Don’t forget to check its terms and conditions page for more details about games, bonuses, deposits, and withdrawals.
2. Verify your account and deposit the money
Upon completing your account registration, you must confirm your identity. Once you’re finished with all procedures, you can enter the potential code, and the bonus money will instantly be transferred to your account. In order to withdraw the money, you must complete the requirements, which vary from casino to casino.
3. Log in, use the bonus amounts and start placing bets.
In case you already have an account at the casinos we pointed out, you need to log in and start playing your favorite games. Once you complete all conditions, you’ll be able to withdraw the bonus and the potential winnings you got using the promo.
Best Christmas Casino Promotions for 2022
In the sections below, you'll read about different promotions at online casinos.
RAPID CASINO
Christmas promotions at Rapid Casino run from the first day of December until Christmas. A daily offer will be shown between 00:01 and 23:59 CET. Players who haven't deposited in the last 30 days aren't eligible for the free spin.
The 500 Xmas free spins will be credited to the player with the highest single spin multiplier win from the Free Spin offer. The spins will be credited on the following day by 17:00 CET. All free spin winnings have a wagering requirement of 50x within 24 hours.
For Christmas Tournaments, the minimum bet is $1. Tournament winnings have a 5x wagering requirement. You can expect them to be deposited on Mondays at 17:00 CET and be accessible for a full week.
Prize Drops also require a $1 minimum wager. Any qualifying spin randomly triggers a prize during the promotion. One player can trigger more than one prize. They are all paid right after you trigger them.
AXE CASINO
To get Axe Casino Christmas deposit bonuses, you have to make a $10 minimum deposit.
The 3rd Christmas free spins are given in Road 2 Riches
The 4th Christmas free spins are handed out in Lady Wolf Moon
The 6th Christmas free spins are granted in Wild Cash
The 7th Christmas free spins are added in Bonanza Billion
The 10th Christmas free spins are awarded in Christmas Big Bass Bonanza or Elvis Frog Trueways, depending on the location
The 14th Christmas free spins are given in Fruit Million
The 17th Christmas free spins are handed out in Gates of Olympus or Aloha King Elvis, depending on the location
The 21st Christmas free spins are granted in Brave Viking
The 23rd Christmas free spins are added in Eagle's Gold
The 25th Christmas free spins are given in Candy Monsta
The slots are provided mostly by the BGaming studio, other than Eagle's Gold, made by Zillion, and Christmas Big Bass Bonanza and Gates of Olympus, provided by Pragmatic Play.
The maximum bonus amounts at Axe Casino are arranged like this:
The maximum 25th Christmas bonus amount is $250.
The maximum 13th Christmas bonus amount is $130.
The maximum 11th Christmas bonus amount is $111.
The 1st, 2nd, 4th, 6th, 8th, 9th, 15th, 16th, 18th, 19th, 21st Christmas bonus amount is $100.
The 5th, 12th, 20th, 22nd, and 24th Christmas bonus amount is $50.
You have to claim all Christmas cashback bonuses through Live Chat. Bonus validity is seven days. You can activate free spins within three days. Free spins duration and free spins result duration are seven days.
oshi CASINO
Just like Axe Casino, Oshi is also a part of the Dama N.V. group, so it has a nearly identical Christmas program. Every bonus at Oshi Casino is valid for seven days. You have to claim all Christmas cashback bonuses through Live Chat. You can activate free spins within three days. The duration of the spins and the winnings is seven days.
The 2nd Christmas free spins are added in Fruit Million.
The 5th Christmas free spins are added in Candy Monsta or Eagle's Gold (Zillion), depending on the location.
The 8th Christmas free spins are added in Elvis Frog Trueways.
The 11th Christmas free spins are added in Road 2 Riches.
The 14th Christmas free spins are added in Gates of Olympus (Pragmatic) or Aloha King Elvis, depending on the location.
The 16th Christmas free spins are added in Candy Monsta or Gift Rush.
The 17th Christmas free spins are added in Wolf Gold (Pragmatic) or Elvis Frog in Vegas.
The 20th Christmas free spins are added in Bonanza Billion.
The 24th Christmas free spins are added in Lady Wolf Moon.
Maximum winning for no deposit Christmas free spins is $50. Additionally, individual online casino Christmas bonuses carry these max caps:
The 18th Christmas bonus amount is $1000
The 4th Christmas bonus amount is $500
The 1st, 6th, 9th, 13th, 14th, and 22nd Christmas bonuses amount is $200
The 2nd, 12th, and 25th Christmas bonuses amount is $150
The 19th Christmas casino bonus amount is $100
CASHALOT CASINO
During the Holiday Frenzy promotion at Cashalot Casino, you can claim one of four exciting Christmas casino bonuses every day. After making the first deposit of the day, you're eligible for one of the bonuses. You can claim only one bonus per day. The options are:
Video slots bonus of 75% up to $150
Table games bonus of 50% up to $100
Live casino and TV games bonus of 50% up to $100
Virtual sports daily cashback of 25% up to $50
KING BILLY CASINO
King Billy's Christmas campaign stretches between December 13 and January 15. It includes four missions with very special Lootbox Prizes, six Christmas online casino promos, and a total of 768 free spins and $465.
The minimum qualifying deposit is $60, and the wagering requirement for prizes is 30x. You can get two bonuses during the promotion. If Endorphina's Book of Santa is unavailable, free spins will be given on BGaming's Book of King Billy. Make sure you insert the Xmas free spins.
LEON CASINO
The Christmas offer from Leon Casino could be the most impressive in the industry. Besides Yggdrasil's Ygg-mas Tree and Gamomat's 31 Days of Spinsmas, Leon provides three additional online casino Christmas promotions in cooperation with gaming studios.
The PG Soft promotion with a $5,000 prize pool is available only for Leon Casino players. Start spinning any PG Soft slot machine from December 4 until the end of 2022 for a chance to win weekly prizes ranging from $40 to $1,800. Gain one point for every $1.5 you bet. Your odds of finishing in the top 20 of each tournament increase in proportion to the number of points you earn.
In an effort to amaze its Live Casino customers, Evolution Gaming organized two separate prize draw campaigns, each worth $50,000. One ticket will be awarded for every $25 wagered. The drawing dates for 612 prizes are set for December 20 and January 5. Any given ticket can reward you with $50 or $5,000. Play MONOPOLY Big Baller, XXXtreme Lightning Roulette, Crazy Time, and other provider-selected games between December 1 and December 31.
From December 11 to December 18, Betsoft has a special offer for Leon Casino players a tournament with 10 cash prizes worth $3,000. Spin any of the provider's slots, get to the top of the leaderboard and win your early Christmas gift. Earn one point for every $1.5 you bet. A total of $1,400 will be awarded to the winner, with $750 and $325 going to runners-up and third-place finishers, respectively.
Xmas Calendar Bonuses
Stake Casino announces 25 Days of Christmas every day at 1 AM GMT on its Telegram account. Stake grants various prizes, so you can receive:
Monthly Bonus
Stream
Twitter giveaways
Bonus drops
Bet and share a $100,000 prize pool
ShadowBit is another Dama N.V. casino. However, it opted for a different type of Christmas promotion. The ShadowBit daily bonuses and promotions are available from December 1 until December 25. Every day you will see a new bonus offer in the Casino Christmas Bonus Calendar. It can be a cashback, match bonus, free spins or a combination of the bunch.
LuckyElektra Casino Christmas promotions are similar to ShadowBit, with a different prize waiting to be claimed every day until Christmas.
Platin Casino has a Christmas countdown this year, from December 1 through Christmas Eve. Platincasino rolls out proven promotions, such as deposit bonuses, free spin Christmas casino offers, and gifts, with an occasional surprise.
Slot Providers That Offer Christmas Promotions
Several gaming studios also see the Christmas holidays as an opportunity to appeal to slot players and become their go-to slot provider.
Wazdan Xmas Cash Drop
Wazdan iGaming solutions provider created a $100,000 Christmas prize pool. Join the promo by playing any game. Bet real money on Wazdan slot machines during the promotional period for a shot at landing a cash prize. Prizes don't carry any wagering requirement, and there is no required minimum bet. All bets qualify for participation.
This tournament is open to all video slot games by Wazdan. The campaign runs from December 1 until 23:59 on December 26.
One bet only qualifies for one prize, but multiple bets can bring you more than one prize. You must opt-in to be eligible. Only verified casino players qualify to win the cash rewards:
Five $1,000 prizes
Ten $750 prizes
Fifteen $500 prizes
One hundred $200 prizes
Two hundred $100 prizes
Five hundred $50 prizes
1,500 $10 prizes
Upon receiving a notification, your account will be credited immediately with the full amount of your winnings. If you use bonus money to play games, the prizes will also be awarded in bonus money.
Under the Ygg-mas Tree
From December 16 and January 9, Ygg-mass tree promotion will reward players from a $250,000 real money prize pool. It's the biggest Yggdrasil network campaign to date. The promotion will run in phases:
Tangled in Tinsel
Fairy Light Prize Fight
Bauble Bombardment
2022 Unwrapped
The first phase is running between December 16 and December 22. The Christmas Missions carry $70,000 in rewards. Complete them in the following games: Vikings Go Berzerk, Golden Fish Tank, Raptor Doublemax, Multifly!, and Gator Gold Gigablox Deluxe.
From December 23 to December 29, a Fairy Light Prize Fight Prize Drop is taking center stage with another $70,000 prize pool. Holmes and the Stolen Stones, Jackpot Raiders, Valley of the Gods 2, Valley of the Gods, Vikings Go Berzerk Reloaded, 90K Yeti Gigablox and Monster Blox Gigablox are the games that qualify.
The third stage will run from December 30 to January 5 with another $70,000 waiting in Raptor Doublemax, Valley of the Gods, Hades Gigablox, Golden Fish Tank 2, and CherryPop video slots.
Lastly, from January 6 to January 9, Prize Drop Double Chance prize pool worth $40,000 is available in Yggdrasil's most popular 2021 titles—Atlantean Gigarise, Easter Island 2, Frost Queen Jackpots, Gator Gold Gigablox, Gator Gold Gigablox Deluxe, Golden Fish Tank 2, Golden Gorgon, Raptor Doublemax, Reel Desire, Suncatcher Gigablox, and Vikings Go Berzerk Reloaded.
Under the YGG-mas Tree promotion doesn't have a required minimum bet for any of its phases, but only real money bets are eligible for the campaign. Players must confirm their participation in the campaign at any stage in the confirmation window. Participation is completely free.
Gamomat's 31 Days of Spinsmas
Themed December tournament from Gamomat has a $10,000 prize pool. Spin the reels of participating slots from the provider between November 30 and December 31 for a shot at winning anything from $20 to $4,000. You can earn 70 free spins by completing the weekly quests and 100 spins in the main, 10-day New Year's countdown quest.
Bet at least $0.20 and get points for each win. The greater your point total, the better your odds of breaking into the top 100 scorers. Play Gamomat's Wild Rubies Christmas Edition slot on the 25th at 7 PM UTC for a chance to be one of the first 100 players to receive an extra ten free spins.
The selected Gamomat games are: Down the Chimney, Egyptian Magic, Expanding Fireworks, Fruit Lines Winter, Golden Treasures, Maaax Diamonds Christmas Edition, Ramses Book Christmas Edition, Take 5 Christmas Edition, Wild Rubies Christmas Edition, Win Blaster Christmas Edition and A Winter's Tale.
Tips for the Christmas Online Casino Promotions
Consider the following information if you want to participate in Christmas promos.
Read the fine print to make sure that you can complete all requirements.
Devise a strategy of how you’ll use a certain bonus. For example, mark the calendar, so you know on which days you have to involve more in spinning the reels.
The period during which you can use these Xmas bonuses is limited.
Subscribe to a newsletter to be informed on your favorite casino’s promotions, so you can get the message as soon as the promotion starts.
At the end of November/December, check the promo page of your favorite online casino to check its Christmas casino promotions.
On Christmas day, log in to your chosen online casino and claim the final offer in the Christmas calendar. It’s usually the most valuable.
Don’t forget to gamble responsibly.
December 22, 2022
Posted by Content Team
If you enjoy playing poker and are looking for a new challenge, you should try Hi-Lo Omaha. This game is similar to Texas Hold'em, but with an exciting twist. You need to understand the rules, best Hi-Lo strategies, and betting structure to learn how to play Hi-Lo Omaha. Let's dive into this article to learn more.
What Is Hi-Lo Omaha?
If you're familiar with pot-limit Omaha or "Omaha high," you're on the right track to learning Omaha Hi-Lo. In Omaha Hi-Lo Poker, players compete for the high and low halves of the pot, as the name implies. In addition to being played with fixed-limit betting, Omaha Hi-Lo is frequently incorporated into "mixed game" formats, such as the popular 8-game mix Poker.
The game is sometimes referred to as "Omaha 8" or "Omaha Hi-Lo 8 or better." There are also pot-limit and no-limit variations, which are both popular either as tournaments or cash games.
High Low Omaha Rules
According to traditional hand rankings, the "high" hand in Omaha Hi-Lo follows the same rules as in hold'em or Omaha high games like PLO. If you're new to split-pot games or Hi-Lo Poker, the "low" hand requires a little more explanation.
If you have a high hand, regardless of the cards you use, you can also make a low hand. For example, when building your five-card Poker hand, you can use two cards from your four-card hand plus three community cards.
For Omaha Hi-Lo, all cards that make up a low hand must be ranked eight or lower according to the rules. This is the origin of the phrase "split-8-or-better," usually added to the game's name.
Five unpaired cards ranked eight or lower constitute a low qualifying hand. In a low hand, an ace is considered the lowest card, while it can also serve as the highest card in a high hand.
In Omaha Hi-Lo, it doesn't matter if you have a straight or flush with your five lowest cards (if they are all ranked 8 or lower), you still have a low hand. Omaha Hi Lo differs from other "lowball" games because flushes and straights don't raise your low hand.
Thus, the lowest possible Omaha Hi-Lo hand would be 5-4-3-2-A, the best "low hand." The next lowest possible hand would be 6-4-3-2-A. In Omaha Hi-Lo, 8-7-6-5-4 is the worst low hand.
To determine which low hand is the best, every player needs to consider each hand in terms of its five-digit number, and the hand with the lowest number is the best (or lowest). Therefore, 5-4-3-2-A is better than 6-4-3-2-A, and 6-4-3-2-A is better than 6-5-3-2-A.
How to Play Omaha Hi-Lo
A 52-card deck is used in Omaha Hi-Lo Poker, also known as Omaha 8-or-better. Initially, each player receives four cards, and then the dealer puts five face-up cards on the table.
After that, players must make both a high hand and a low hand by selecting cards from their hand and the community cards. Two cards from each player's hand and three from the community must be included in both hands. Winners are determined by having both the highest and the lowest hands.
Hi-Lo Omaha Strategy
It can be challenging for new players to rethink some of the fundamentals they've learned while playing Texas Hold'em. In Omaha Poker, high card combinations such as A-K and A-Q do not have the same power to dominate a hand as in Hold'em.
A single big pair is unlikely to still be ahead by the river because more card combinations are available; a straight, flush, or any other draw is more likely. We recommend following a few basic play rules when it comes to Omaha Hi-Lo strategy:
On the flop, you should be able to make several different hands (or draws) based on your four-hole cards.
As middle cards are less useful than high or low cards, your hand should have three very strong cards to go with it (i.e., 7, 8, 9, T).
Keep position in mind, and relax your starting hand requirements if no one has shown strength.
When calculating your pot odds, make the appropriate adjustments if you're only drawing to half the pot.
Keeping your hand too close to the table can lead to you being easily outdrawn if you flop the nuts.
Tips for Playing High-Low Poker
It can’t be very clear to play Omaha Hi Lo Eight or Better. In Omaha Poker, there are more than 16,000 possible starting hand combinations instead of 169 in Holdem. However, following these ten tips, you should not have any problems to play.
Ace-Deuce
As far as Omaha Hi-Lo is concerned, the only hands that are strong enough to survive in this game are those that contain two Aces and a Deuce. In Poker, hands with these two cards are considered the highest-rated combos in the game. Therefore, an Ace-Deuce and two random cards in a full game will yield a higher profit than two Aces and two random cards. Playing Ace-Deuce preflop in a loose game is also almost always possible. However, some Ace-Ace hands do not perform as well as Ace-Deuce hands.
The More Help, the Better
Undoubtedly, the more closely connected your cards are, the better your chances of winning. Unfortunately, your opponents also have a lot of cards. If you want to survive through the river, you may need them.
Have a Backup for Your Low
Compared to the dry Ace-Deuce, the Ace-Deuce-Three is far superior. A counterfeited card on the board is likely to lose the hand unless you have another low card. In the case of the flop being 874 and you holding the A2, you have 8742A for the nut low. A seven might be made by someone else, but 8742A may be the lowest of all possible lows if another Ace or Deuce falls. Your opponent would now have 7432A for the low nut if you were dealt a deuce on the turn. On the market, counterfeit items aren't uncommon. Each time a player flops the nut low with six outs, they have a 24% chance of being counterfeited.
Have Backup for Your High
You can expect your flopped nuts to be in roughly 114th place by the river, just like the low. Omaha HiLo Poker is a game where you need the nuts with redraws to survive. With the flop being 7s 8sTc and the 9JQA with no spades, you're probably in a lot of trouble despite having the nut high. You are in third place if you get a low draw, a flush draw, and a couple of random hands against you. There is also a possibility that someone else might have the same nut straight as you but with redraws to go along with it if there is a lot of action on the flop. If that's the case, you're somewhere between a two to one and three-to-one dog. Don't forget that you flopped the nuts!
Protect Your Hand
With this, a player is only able to play live Poker. There is a common occurrence where half of the players seated at the table hold their hands away from their bodies so they can check their cards throughout the course of the hand while they are seated at the table. Due to this, all their neighbors are always able to see what they are holding at all times. The more people don't know what you have, the harder it is for you to win a game of Poker when no one knows what you have. When they have a look at your hand, the chances of you making a profit are slim, as well.
Conclusion
There are not many difficulties in learning Omaha Hi-Lo, especially if you already know how to play pot-limit Omaha. However, despite the fact that the Hi-Lo Omaha strategy can seem complicated, there is a great deal of importance placed on knowing what strong starting hands are, for example, hands containing an Ace with at least 1 or 2 low cards, and especially a deuce, so that you do not make the mistake of fighting only for the high or low cards.
FAQ
How do you win high low in Omaha?
To win High Low in Omaha, you need to make the best high hand and the best low hand. The best high hand is the standard Poker hand using two hole cards and three community cards, while the best low hand must have five cards of different ranks with a maximum of eight.
What are the best starting hands for Omaha Hi-Lo?
The best starting hands in Omaha Hi-Lo include hands that can potentially make both strong high and low hands. Examples include A-A-2-3, A-2-3-4, A-A-5-6, A-2-5-6, and 2-3-4-5. Four low cards and two high cards or four high cards and two low cards are generally weak starting hands.
What is the difference between Omaha and Omaha Hi-Lo Poker?
The difference is that in Omaha Hi-Lo, the pot is split between the best high hand and the best low hand. In Omaha, only the best high hand wins the pot. Learning this distinction is the key to learning how to play Omaha Hi-Lo.
How do you play 5 card Omaha Hi-Lo?
In 5-Card Omaha Hi-Lo, each player is dealt five hole cards, and the rules are similar to regular Omaha Hi-Lo. Players must use two of their hole cards and three community cards to make the best high hand and the best low hand.
March 21, 2023
Posted by Content Team
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