Much has been stated in the press just a while ago about the bingo industry struggling as a result of the anti smoking law in England. Conditions have become so poor that in Scotland the Bingo industry has asked for massive aid to help keep the industry from going bankrupt. But can the internet version of this quintessential game present a lifeline, or will it in no way compare to its real life equivalent?
Bingo has been an ancient game historically played by the "blue rinse" generation. Although the game of late had seen a recent resurgence in acceptance with younger men and women deciding to hit the bingo parlours rather than the bars on a Saturday night. This is all about to be reversed with the enacting of the cigarette ban throughout UK.
No more will players be able to smoke whilst marking numbers. Beginning in the summer of 2007 every public area will not be permitted to allow smoking in their locations and this includes Bingo halls, one of the most favorite locations where people enjoy smoking.
The effects of the anti cigarette law can already be seen in Scotland where smoking is already forbidden in the bingo parlors. Profits have dropped and the industry is beyond a doubt fighting for its life. But where have the players gone? Surely they haven’t given up on this age old game?
The answer is on the net. Gamblers are now realizing that they can bet on bingo using their computer while enjoying a cocktail and cig and still have a chance at monstrous jackpots. This is a recent development and has happened bordering on perfect with the anti cigarette law.
Of course betting on on the web is unlikely to replace the collective part of going over to the bingo parlour, but for a demographic of men and women the rules have left a good many bingo players with no alternative.