The bingo caller calls out the ball numbers as they come out of the cage in each bingo game.
In online bingo the voice is produced using special bingo caller software that can generate the right pre-recorded voice clip when the relevant ball has come out. This software allows the callers ‘voice’ to be chosen as well, and many sites have a caller that fits into their theme. A bingo caller on a US bingo game site would have an American accent, and use colloquial terms and phrases that US players can identify with. Similarly, a UK caller would have a British accent and use British slang. This software gives the game an authentic feel, which is similar to the experience of playing at a bingo hall.
The average bingo caller speaks fast and calls about 23 numbers per minute. Many callers use special bingo lingo in land-based games, especially in 90-ball UK bingo. These terms are usually centered around the numbers, such as ‘Kelly’s Eye’ for number 1, ‘Lucky Legs’ for 11, ‘Christmas Cake’ for 38 and ‘Clickety Click’ for the number 66. These terms make the game a lot of fun, but callers have to also call the number as well as the term. If the actual number is not called, this could lead to confusion or players claiming that their numbers were not called. These terms are generally not used in the online version of the game, although some caller software may incorporate this lingo into the game.
The bingo caller in land-based games also verifies winning cards. The average time to verify a winner is about 30 seconds. To ensure that they can keep up and keep the game’s momentum going, a bingo caller has to be able to speak quickly and most importantly, clearly. Words and numbers need to be carefully pronounced, as it could cause huge problems if players mishear a word, or if the numbers are mispronounced.
Being a bingo caller can be a rewarding experience. In the UK there is a Caller of the Year Competition that bingo callers can enter to win cash prizes and the opportunity to call the numbers in a Vegas casino bingo game. Winning Caller of the Year will also have the chance to become a bingo ambassador for their country. Many callers are also bingo enthusiasts, which is extremely important as they need to have an excellent understanding of the game.
Many halls recruit bingo callers. Serious players who are looking for a new challenge should consult their local bingo hall to find out if there are any bingo caller vacancies.
Mary Weber has been an online bingo fanatic for over 7 years. She has written many informative and original articles for the website Online-Bingo.net including what it is like to be a bingo caller.
