Just like there’s an etiquette to playing bingo at your favourite hall in real life, there’s a way to do things when playing online. You’ll still be playing with other players so it only makes sense, right? Still, it’s also fair for one to assume that there’s a different set of do’s and don’ts when it comes to the online space, and that’s somewhat the case when it comes to bingo sites.
Not familiar with this set of rules? Don’t worry, there’s no need to fret! Simply continue reading for our full primer on online bingo etiquette, and you’ll soon be all set to playing the game like the best of them.
Why is Online Bingo Etiquette Important?
There’s a few reasons why you should always practise etiquette when playing online bingo, and this is the most important one - it helps create a pleasant environment for everyone. If all players are to enjoy their game, then it’s key that everyone does their part to create a space that’s harmonious and positive.
In turn, this harmony can lead to a sense of community among the players in the room. After all, wouldn’t you rather play with friends, rather than strangers or rivals? This is why one should always keep their manners in mind, as being lacking will not only reflect badly on you, but on everyone in the room.
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Online Bingo Etiquette Do’s and Dont's
Do’s and Dont’s
Now that you know why you should do your part to create a safe and respectful online bingo space, it’s time to learn how to do so. We’ve already mentioned the need to followi basic manners, and if you know your “pleases” and “thank yous” then you’re already well ahead in your online bingo etiquette. As such, all you’ll need to do next is read through this section and check off what you know.
Respect your host
Every online bingo game has a host who runs the chat room. They are there to ensure the peace and liven up proceedings when required, so always be respectful towards them. Hosts have the power to remove players’ chat privileges, so don’t interrupt or distract them. If you actually need to complain about your room’s host then you can do so in the appropriate channel - don’t complain directly at them or in the room.
Be welcoming towards new players
One of the best ways to create a pleasant bingo chat room atmosphere is to be welcoming towards all players, especially the new ones. Encourage the new faces to participate in the conversation and let them know you’re there to help if they have any queries. After all we’ve all been new once, right?
Don’t type in capital letters
This is something specific to online bingo. The hosts make themselves known by typing their messages in all caps. As such, if you do this as a player you’ll confuse the others, not to mention annoy the host. In addition, typing in capitals typically means you’re shouting, so it makes you come off as loud at best or aggressive at worst. As such, only use capital letters if you’re specifically asked to do so by the game or host.
Respect everyone’s privacy
Online bingo players may want to veil their identity for any number of reasons, so always respect their want for anonymity. Don’t go asking inappropriate questions or push for anyone’s personal information. In addition, don’t provide any of your details, such as email address or telephone number.
Mind your language
You might not mind a certain level of saucy or rude language but others potentially would, so be safe about it and refrain from it. Swearing is frowned upon in most online bingo chat rooms, and it can lead to the removal of your chat privileges. The same goes for risqué usernames, which will lead to either the host asking you to change it or an outright ban.
Don’t try sponging off
Sponging off - where a player tries to borrow money or bonuses off others - is considered impolite and can lead to a ban. Always play as much as you can afford, and never chase your losses. If you realise you don’t have enough money to play with then simply log off and play once you have the cash.
Complain at the right place
The game chat room is not the place for any complaints, as these can disrupt the flow of the game and conversation. Instead contact customer support in the case of problems, as these are the people who can help you and fix any possible issues.
The Etiquette for Dealing with Conflicts
Etiquette for Dealing with Conflicts
While we all avoid such cases, there can be times where conflicts take place in the chat room. Maybe someone has an issue, or ended up in an argument with another player or a host. What should we do in these cases?
As we’ve mentioned earlier, there is one place for any problems with the game itself, and that is customer support. Either enter the support chat room or send an email to the appropriate address and the site’s friendly staff will surely do all they can to resolve your issues as quickly as possible.
Conflicts with other players, on the other hand, should be avoided by following the online bingo etiquette listed above. Always communicate calmly and politely, avoiding the use of all caps as you do. Maintain a positive atmosphere and, all the while, avoid probing into personal details. The sense of security and anonymity, and the respect to boundaries these entail, ensure a great online bingo experience for everyone!
Responsible Gaming Etiquette for Online Bingo
We’ve already given responsible gaming a quick mention in our list of online bingo etiquette pointers, but it’s worth going into further detail in this case. Responsible gaming ensures your gaming won’t break the bank, making it even more fun. Just keep these three points in mind:
- Set a budget for playing online bingo you can easily afford and never go over it.
- Know when to stop playing. This includes when you start chasing your losses or get too emotionally involved in the game.
- Never let online bingo interfere in your personal life, relationships, or finances. If you realise you have responsible gaming issues let the customer support staff help you use the site’s help tools or, if necessary, cancel our account outright.
A Quick Etiquette Checklist
So, what have we learned about online bingo etiquette? Here’s a quick rundown of all the points we have mentioned:
- Be respectful towards the hosts.
- Be welcoming with all players but especially the newcomers.
- Never type in capital letters.
- Respect other players’ privacy.
- Mind your language!
- Never try to sponge off other players.
- Direct any complaints to customer support.
- Always play responsibly by gambling what you can afford and never chasing your losses.
Enjoy Playing Online Bingo Respectfully and Have Fun!
Online bingo is great fun, and keeping just a few points in mind can make it even better. Ultimately, it’s all about being polite - it’s nice to be nice! Be respectful towards the hosts, welcome the newcomers, and always make sure your Caps Lock key is off. While you’re at it, mind your language and don’t try bumming off other players. We hope all your online bingo sessions are excellent and, as always, play responsibly.
