Written by: Jasmin Williams | The review was last updated: 03 July 2024 | Fact-check by: Kim Birch
If you're a fan of classic Bingo and pokies, Slingo might be right up your alley.
Most of us have played Bingo at some point, and if you're into a punt, you're probably familiar with pokies too. Lately, a new game type's been making waves in the online gambling scene. It's a souped-up version of good old Bingo, with a pokie-style twist. So, you could say Slingo's a bit of both worlds.
Whoever dreamed up the idea of mashing these two popular gambling games together deserves a medal. Slingo's a ripper of a game, and long-time pokie players will find it both fresh and familiar. Even Bingo buffs who've never touched a pokie will have a blast.
Slingo's probably one of the fastest-growing additions to online gambling in recent years, but it's still flying under the radar for many punters. These games are dead easy, heaps of fun, and really entertaining. Give Slingo a go - you won't be disappointed.
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
Slingo's a clever combo of bingo and pokies, blending the popular 75-ball bingo with the layout of a classic pokie machine.
You'll spot Slingo at heaps of online casinos, and it's a breeze to play. Picture a 5x5 grid with a reel underneath - that's your Slingo setup. Once you start, you'll see why it's called Slingo. The reels give it that pokie feel, while the grid's pure bingo.
Slingo kicked off as a bit of fun, but it's since taken off with punters. Now, it's one of the hottest games for online gamblers. To keep up with demand, loads of iGaming outfits are churning out different Slingo versions. So when you're after a game, you've got plenty of options to choose from.
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
Slingo: A ripper blend of pokies and bingo for Aussies
Let's face it, pokies are the go-to for most punters. Whether you're at the pub or online, these machines are always a crowd-pleaser. They're perfect for a bit of fun and the chance to win some cash. But sometimes you need to shake things up, right? That's where Slingo comes in – it's a top choice when you're after something fresh.
You'll find heaps of Slingo variations online, so you can pick one that suits your style.
The classic Slingo setup has a main grid with 5 rows and 5 columns, filled with 25 random numbers from the standard 75-ball bingo game. But unlike bingo, there's no caller shouting out numbers.
Instead, you've got a number reel, similar to a pokie machine. You spin this to get your random numbers.
After each spin, you match the numbers that come up with those on your grid. You get 10 spins to cross off as many numbers as you can.
Like in bingo, you score extra points for completing a line, and if you manage to cross off all your numbers and fill the grid, you're in for the big win.
Once you've used all your spins, your points are tallied up to determine your payout.
Slingo's packed with surprises, offering some ripper bonuses and rewards. The game's full of special symbols that trigger bonus features, giving you a top gaming experience. There are joker symbols that let you pick which number to mark off.
There's also a Super Joker bonus that lets you cross off any number on the grid, and if you land three or more jokers, you're in for an instant cash prize.
Just like pokies, Slingo's got some awesome free spin bonuses. Hit these special symbols on the reel, and you'll trigger a free spin round with some great bonuses thrown in for good measure.
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
Believe it or not, Slingo's been kicking around since the mid-90s. It started off as a scratch card game before evolving into what we see today. The Slingo Originals studio has been pumping out heaps of variants, each with its own unique features and bonuses that keep punters coming back for more.
If you're keen to give Slingo a crack, here are some of the top picks you'll find at online casinos:
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
Slingo's one of the easiest pokies games you'll ever play. If you've had a go at pokies and bingo before, you're already halfway there. It's dead simple, with no unnecessary bells and whistles to complicate things.
You kick off your Slingo game by spinning the reel, usually at the bottom of the screen. Typically, you'll get 10 or 20 spins per round, but it's worth checking the game details before you start.
After spinning, the reel stops and shows some numbers. You then match these to your bingo-style grid on screen, ticking off the matching numbers.
The game continues like this - you keep spinning, getting numbers, and marking them off your bingo grid. Punters love this game because it's two ripper games in one, doubling the fun.
If you're lucky, you'll clear all the numbers on your grid and score a big win. If not, you'll still get a payout based on how many you've cleared.
Slingo games have heaps of special symbols you should know about. Here are some of the most common ones:
The joker's a beauty in Slingo. It'll match any number on your grid. Plus, if you land three or more jokers at once on the reel, you'll get a special cash bonus. Different Slingo games have various joker types, like green Super Jokers and Special Jokers.
The devil's not one you want to see. This little bugger will nick half your points. But sometimes a cherub might show up to chase him off, doubling your points instead.
The Gold Coin's a ripper symbol in Slingo. Land this on the reel and you'll pocket 1,000 points.
You'll also score some free spins in Slingo games. These can usually be saved up and used instead of points to spin the reel.
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
Slingo pokies: Aussie guide to gameplay
Most Slingo games have a straightforward, clean design. Check out the image on the left for a snapshot of a real Slingo game in action.
You'll find options to adjust your bet and stake on the left side of the screen, along with the paytable. The spin button sits on the right, showing your remaining spins and any free spins you've scored.
The game shown uses a classic 5x5 grid, which is pretty standard for Slingo. As numbers are drawn, they're marked off your grid with a star if they match, just like in the image.
The reel at the bottom (typical for Slingo) spins when you hit the button, giving you your next set of numbers to check against your grid.
It's a simple setup that Aussie punters can pick up quickly, making it a popular choice at online casinos and betting sites across the country.
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
Slingo games typically offer a Return to Player rate of about 95%, which is pretty solid. Keep in mind that this can vary between games, with some offering higher or lower percentages.
The variance in Slingo games can differ quite a bit, with volatility levels depending on factors like game speed and bet sizes.
Like other pokies, Slingo games let you choose your stake. Bets usually start from as little as 10 cents and can go up to $100 for high rollers.
The main goal in Slingo is to mark off numbers on the game grid and complete lines. A line is formed when you cross off 5 numbers in a row - horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. A standard 5x5 Slingo grid has 12 possible winning lines. The more lines you complete, the bigger your payout.
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
Slingo games are purely chance-based, with no way to influence or predict outcomes. The game hinges entirely on the numbers that pop up in the spinning reel. While Slingo is fundamentally a game of luck, there's still room for a bit of strategy.
You'll come across joker symbols that let you cross off numbers on the grid. Here's where you can use your noggin. You might choose to complete a line or start working on a diagonal. It's up to you how to play these wild cards.
Some Slingo variants offer extra bonuses, so keep an eye out for those. A few even let you buy additional spins or specific perks with real dosh. In these cases, you'll need to weigh up the best approach.
Lately, we're seeing new Slingo versions that pit you against other punters, similar to a traditional bingo hall game. To keep things fair, these games cap the number of players who can join in at once.
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
Once you've used up all your spins in a game, you might be presented with a few choices.
You can either wrap things up and collect your winnings, or keep playing by purchasing extra spins to fill the grid. The cost of these additional spins will vary based on how many numbers are left to cross off.
When you're down to just a handful of numbers, it's tempting to splash out on more spins. However, we reckon it's best to call it quits and cash out. As you get closer to filling the grid, the price of spins skyrockets, and so does the risk. You could end up blowing your budget on pricey spins without any payoff.
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
Aussie guide to Slingo squares on a 5x5 grid
While playing Slingo, you'll come across heaps of jokers and special jokers, giving you options for number selection on the grid. Your bonus choices will impact your RTP, so choose wisely.
It's worth getting your head around the game basics and developing a strategy to guide you. Check out the image on the left to understand joker placements better.
Always aim to use jokers and super jokers to edge closer to completing a win line. The best spot depends on your current game state, but you can stick to a basic strategy throughout.
Prioritise certain spots, focusing on numbers/spaces with the most lines running through them.
Give top priority to the centre grid number, as it's part of 4 winning lines.
After the centre, prioritise diagonal numbers. They're part of 3 win lines and can lead to solid payouts.
The remaining numbers all cover 2 win lines. Once you've tackled the centre and diagonals, you can pick any of these.
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
Don't let Slingo's hybrid nature fool you. It's a dead-easy game to pick up, and you'll have no dramas getting your head around the rules and gameplay.
The aim of Slingo is to rack up points as quickly as possible. Some punters reckon they can spot patterns between the slot reel and bingo card, while others stick to the priority system we mentioned earlier. Everyone's got their own approach.
Before you chuck any real cash at Slingo, it's worth sussing out different strategies to boost your chances of a decent payout. That's your best bet for any Slingo game, really.
Even if you've had a crack at Slingo before and reckon it's a piece of cake, don't get cocky. It's still worth reading up on different playing styles before diving in.
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
Bingo's got plenty of versions, but Slingo's the one that's really taken off. It's a hit with punters of all ages, and its popularity just keeps growing.
The game's always evolving, with top developers churning out new and interesting variants. These new versions are dead easy to get your head around. We'll give you a quick rundown of some of the most popular Slingo types out there.
The most creative and popular Slingo variants are the ones that chuck in TV show elements. Pokies have been doing this for ages, and now Slingo's jumped on the bandwagon. You'll find heaps of different Slingo games inspired by telly shows, like Slingo - Australia's Got Talent and Deal or No Deal Slingo.
Arcade games are all the rage at online casinos these days, and developers are keen to work arcade features into other casino games. Slingo's getting some ripper upgrades with arcade-style elements. Take Cash Buster, for example - it's a popular Slingo game that's a bit of a mash-up between classic Slingo and Tetris. Your job is to smash all the colourful blocks.
Lately, scratchies have been making their way into Slingo games, and punters are loving it. These Slingo-scratchie hybrids are usually simpler than other Slingo variants. If you're after a Slingo game that's not too different from the original but still offers something fresh, give the Slingo scratchie games a go.
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
Free game
Slingo Extreme a ripper twist on the classic game.
Slingo Extreme is a ripper Slingo game variant that's way quicker than your average pokie.
This version keeps the classic 5x5 grid. Kick off by picking your stake on the screen, then give it a spin.
You'll score 11 spins in each Slingo Extreme round, with 5 numbers popping up at the bottom each time. Match 'em with the grid and they'll get crossed off. Then it's on to the next spin.
Nail a full line for bonus points - that's your Slingo. The aim's to rack up as many Slingos as you can. Keep an eye on the left of the screen for your points and payouts.
There's a bunch of special symbols to watch for. Joker Wilds and Super Joker Wilds are gold - they'll do you all sorts of favours. Land 3 or more Jokers/Super Jokers and you're in for an instant cash win. Watch out for those pesky Devils though, they're out to block your matches.
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
Free game
Try Slingo Rainbow Riches for free at BETO Pokies
Slingo Rainbow Riches is a top pick for Slingo fans in the online gambling world. It's a ripper of a game that's made a name for itself among punters. You'll spot this one at most decent online casinos and bingo sites.
Rainbow Riches Slingo takes on an Irish theme, decked out with themed symbols, graphics, and bonuses. Your main job? Chase down that pot of gold at the end of the Rainbow Riches. It's a fair dinkum Aussie favourite for a bit of online fun.
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
Free game
Slingo Starburst - Cosmic Aussie Slingo
Slingo Starburst is a top-notch choice for punters keen on Slingo games. It's built on the classic 5x5 grid, and your goal is to rack up as many lines (called Slingos) as possible.
Slingo Starburst features a unique bonus ladder. Each time you complete a Slingo, you'll climb up, inching closer to the ripper Win Spin Bonus.
Keep an eye out for the special Purple Gem symbols. Land three or more, and you'll score an instant cash Slingo prize.
Slingo Starburst also throws in some Wild Respins. These beauties mark off any number in the column right above where they land, boosting your chances of a solid payout. The Superstar Wilds are even better - they not only give you good matches but also sub in for Purple Gems, potentially netting you a sweet instant cash prize.
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
For those new to Slingo, we reckon 'Slingo Extreme' is a top choice to kick things off (not to be mixed up with Slingo XXXtreme). It's a ripper option with low minimum bets and steady, low variance, perfect for beginners.
Another ace feature of Slingo Extreme is its automated spins, which wrap up games in no time.
Other solid options include Slingo Riches and Slingo Britain's Got Talent, though they're a tad slower. When you play Slingo games, you can score some sweet deals like standard casino bonuses and sign-up offers. For more info on Slingo games and the best casino deals, check out our reviews on BETO.com.
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS
Got questions about Slingo? We've rounded up the most common queries from BETO punters to give you the lowdown on this unique pokie-bingo hybrid. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, we've got you covered.
Scoring in Slingo Extreme is straightforward. Like other Slingo games, you're faced with a grid and your goal is to mark off as many numbers as possible. You'll spin a reel at the bottom of the screen, and any numbers that pop up get crossed off the grid above. It's a simple yet engaging way to play, perfect for a quick punt or a longer session.
When it comes to Slingo, there's no surefire strategy since most of the game boils down to luck with the reel outcomes. That said, be cautious about splashing out on extra spins - they can really eat into your bankroll. Keep your eyes peeled for those Joker and Special Joker bonuses too, as they can make a big difference to your game.
At BETO, we reckon Slingo Extreme is the top pick for newcomers to online pokies.
Slingo games blend the best of pokies and bingo, and they're hitting the right notes with punters. The reviews are in, and it's clear these hybrids are a hit on the Aussie gambling scene.
Rainbow Riches Slingo is a straightforward game that follows the usual Slingo format. You can start betting from as little as 20 cents, and you'll get 10 spins to mark off numbers on the grid. It's a no-fuss way to enjoy a bit of pokie action with a twist.
Most online casinos will chuck loyalty points your way when you play Slingo games. These points can be swapped for real cash bonuses, putting more money in your pocket for a punt.
BETO Pokies | Tower Business Centre, 2nd floor | Swatar BKR 4013 | Malta | +356 2144 2245
Copyright 1999 - 2025. All Rights Reserved.