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An abundance has been reported in the papers just a while ago regarding the bingo industry singing the blues as a result of the anti cigarette law in the UK. Things have become so bad that in Scotland the Bingo industry has asked for huge tax cuts to assist in keeping the businesses alive. But does the internet adaptation of this classic game offer a lifeline, or will it never compare to its real life equivalent?
Bingo has been an familiar game usually enjoyed by the "blue haired" generation. Although the game recently had seen a recent comeback in appeal with younger members of society opting to visit the bingo parlours instead of the discos on a Friday night. This is all about to get flipped on its head with the enforcement of the cigarette ban all over England and Wales.
No longer will players be able to puff on cigarettes whilst dabbing numbers. Starting in the summer of 2007 all public areas will no longer be allowed to permit cigarettes in their venues and this includes Bingo halls, one of the most favorite locations where many people enjoy smoking.
The effects of the anti smoking law can already be observed in Scotland where smoking is already illegal in the bingo halls. Profits have plummeted and the business is literally struggling for its life. But where have all the players gone? Surely they have not given up on this age old game?
The answer is online. Gamblers are now realizing that they can play bingo using their computer while enjoying a cocktail and cigarette and still enjoy big prizes. This is a recent development and has timed itself bordering on perfect with the ban on cigarettes.
Of course playing on the internet is unlikely to replace the social portion of going over to the bingo hall, but for a group of players the governing edicts have left many bingo players with no choice.
