Quick answer
The cross bingo pattern is a Latin cross: the full N column as the upright and the full second row as the crossbar. It covers 9 squares and needs 8 numbers, because the upright passes through the free space. One card has a 15% chance by call 60, and in a room with 500 cards the first cross usually comes around call 37.
Which squares make the cross?
A tall upright with the crossbar set high:
- Upright: the whole N column: N1, N2, free space, N4, N5
- Crossbar: B2, I2, G2, O2 (N2 is already in the upright)
9 squares, 8 numbers. You need every N number on your card and the second-row number in each of the other four columns.
Cross vs. plus sign vs. T
These three patterns all need 8 numbers and use the full N column. The only difference is where the bar sits:
| Pattern | Bar position | Free space on the bar? |
|---|---|---|
| Letter T | Row 1 | No |
| Cross | Row 2 | No |
| Plus sign | Row 3 | Yes |
Because they need the same number of numbers, they play to about the same length.
Cross odds by call
Exact single-card figures:
| Calls made | Regular cross | Crazy cross (any direction) |
|---|---|---|
| 40 | 0.46% | 1.8% |
| 50 | 3.2% | 11% |
| 60 | 15% | 44% |
| 70 | 56% | 93% |
Half of single cards finish a regular cross by call 70 and a crazy cross by call 62. In a room, our simulation puts the first cross at about call 47 with 50 cards and call 37 with 500 cards; a crazy cross comes near call 40 and call 31.
Tips for players
- N is everything. Half your numbers are in the N column (31–45).
- Row 2 only. A G number in row 3 or 4 doesn’t help; only G2 does.
- Check the bar row. If you’ve been playing plus signs all night, it’s easy to mark toward the middle row by habit.
Tips for callers and hosts
The cross is a staple of Easter sessions and church-hall bingo. At 8 numbers it’s a medium game that fits the middle of a session.
Show the shape on your board and say “the cross, bar on the second row,” since players often mix it up with the plus sign. If you want a shorter game, announce a crazy cross.
Variations
- Crazy cross: turned to face any edge.
- Plus sign: bar on the middle row. See the plus sign.
- Small cross: the four squares around the free space. See the small diamond.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a cross and a plus sign in bingo?
Both use the full N column. A plus sign's crossbar is the middle row, so its arms are equal. A cross puts the crossbar on row 2, giving the longer lower arm of a Latin cross.
How many numbers do you need for a cross?
Eight: all four N numbers on your card and B2, I2, G2 and O2 on the crossbar.
When is the cross pattern played?
It's a common Easter pattern and a natural fit for church hall and parish bingo nights.
Keep reading
Plus Sign Bingo Pattern: Rules, Odds & Tips
The plus sign bingo pattern is the full middle row and full N column, crossing at the free space. See the 8 numbers you need and the exact odds.
Letter T Bingo Pattern: Rules, Odds & Tips
The letter T bingo pattern is the top row plus the N column: 9 squares, 8 numbers. See the exact layout, the odds by call, and how crazy T works.
Small Diamond Bingo Pattern: Rules, Odds & Tips
The small diamond bingo pattern is the four squares touching the free space. See which numbers count, the exact odds by call, and how it compares.
Bingo Patterns
Every bingo pattern with a picture, rules and how many numbers you need.