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Lotería

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Lotería is a beloved Mexican board game of chance. It is very similar to the game called bingo. However, players use a deck of cards instead of numbered balls. Each card features a bright image, a name, and a number. Most players ignore the numbers and focus on the pictures.

ToyRoomToluca10
ToyRoomToluca10

People love this game because it brings them together. It is a common tradition at Mexican fairs and celebrations. The game feels lively and full of excitement for everyone involved.

To play, you first need a tabla, which is a game board. Each tabla has a grid of images arranged in a 4x4 pattern. A special player called the cantor, or singer, leads the game. The cantor shuffles the deck and picks cards one by one. They announce the name of the card to the group. Sometimes, the cantor even says a short verse or poem first.

Loteria how to win
Loteria how to win

Players look for the matching picture on their own boards. They mark the correct image with a small object. In Mexico, people often use pinto beans, pennies, or crown corks.

Winning the game requires spotting specific patterns on your board. You might complete a full row or a tall column. You could also finish a diagonal line or the four corners. A unique way to win is by completing a square, called un cuadro.

Loteria how to win
Loteria how to win

When a player finishes their pattern, they shout "Lotería!" to show they have won. This fast-paced way of playing keeps every player watching the cards closely.

The history of Lotería goes back many centuries. The game first started in Italy during the 15th century. It was brought to New Spain, which is modern Mexico, in 1769. At first, it was a hobby for wealthy people. Later, it became a tradition for everyone. In 1887, a man named Don Clemente Jacques began publishing his own version.

UniversumUNAM11
UniversumUNAM11

His cards were even given to Mexican soldiers with their food supplies. These specific designs became very famous in Mexican culture.

Lotería is still very popular in many different ways today. Some people use digital versions or phone apps to play online. Even Google celebrated the game with a special online doodle in 2019.

UniversumUNAM11
UniversumUNAM11

In the United States, the game has also become very well known. New artists even make modern versions with new types of cards. Some versions use religious images, while others use modern symbols. It remains a colorful part of life for many people around the world.

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