Standalone sites are by definition not part of a network. They are worth mentioning here because they are a sort of an independent anti-network – thriving on their own. Many use their own proprietary in-house designed software, such as Bingo Cams, Game Village and Tomblola; others use software from the more established software designers, such as Dragonfish, Virtue Fusion or Microgaming.
Being independent does not necessarily mean being small. Some of the biggest and most popular sites in the business are standalone. Jackpotjoy and BGO, boosted by their memorable TV advertising, are well known standalone sites. Barbara Windsor brings her cheeky cockney persona to the Jackpotjoy brand, while BGO’s glitzy James Bond spoofing “Beat the Boss” TV adverts have really put them on the bingo map.
On the other hand, standalone sites can sometimes be truly unusual and genuinely quirky. There really are some very innovative ideas and designs if you are prepared to give something new a try. Here at Busy Bee, we do have a few personal favourites. How about Game Village? This is a truly unique and off the wall design, based around a virtual village and its idiot called Wally. You won’t find anything like this on Dragonfish. Then there’s Beacon Bingo. This is a real world bingo club with its own online offshoot called Beaky Bingo. Beaky is a cheeky little parrot and is the mascot for the site. This original brand also features a really excellent introductory instruction video – great for nervous players who may be new to online bingo. This is just to pick a couple of our favourites, almost at random. There’s nothing in it for us (honest!) We haven’t been paid a fat promotional fee to big up these sites – we just like ‘em! It’s just that when you’re looking at bingo sites all day (what professionals we are!), us reviewers at Busy Bee get REALLY excited when we spot something a bit new or different. I know, bit sad isn’t it?
Some people like to stick to the bigger names for the feeling of security, but you are unlikely to find a “dodgy” site these days. Just look out for the licencing details at the bottom of the home page: look for the UK Gambling Commission licence number. If still in doubt, check our site reviews – we only review fully UK compliant and licenced sites. Anyway, all we’re saying is don’t be afraid. Go on. Try something new. Sometimes you may find a big brash glitzy site you haven’t seen before, with a big name designer. Other times you’ll come across a quirky little site with an off-beat theme designed by some name you’ve never heard of. Standalone sites are really great for those seeking for something a bit different. Think of it as a bit like a lucky dip. Let’s face it – bingo itself is a bit of a gamble, so why play it safe? Why not take a dip and see what you get. Nothing ventured, nothing gained!