Quick answer

To play Zingo, slide the Zinger to reveal two tiles, then be the first to match the pictures or words on your card with the revealed tiles. Fill your card and yell "Zingo!" to win.

Why Zingo works for different ages

Zingo is designed for pre-readers and early readers alike. The two levels of play let younger kids match pictures while older children use the word side of the cards. This makes it a versatile choice for siblings of different ages.

The game moves quickly, so it holds attention spans without dragging on. It's a great pick for family game night when you want something energetic but still educational.

Trade-offs and exceptions

Zingo is a matching game, not a strategy game. If your family prefers deep tactical play, this may feel too simple. But for young kids and quick rounds, it's ideal.

The Zinger device adds randomness and excitement, but it can be loud. If you have a sleeping baby nearby, consider playing with the tiles face down instead of using the Zinger.

How to Play Zingo in 5 Steps

  1. Set up the Zinger and cards: Place the Zinger device in the center. Each player takes a double-sided Zingo card—one side has pictures, the other has words. Choose the level that matches the youngest player. Check that all players can see the Zinger clearly before starting.
  2. Slide the Zinger to reveal tiles: One player pushes the Zinger handle forward and then back. Two tiles are revealed. Call out the picture or word on each tile as it appears. Keep the Zinger on a flat, stable surface so tiles don't scatter.
  3. Match tiles to your card: If a revealed tile matches a picture or word on your challenge card, take it and place it over the matching square. If both players want the same tile, the first to yell “Zingo!” gets it. Encourage players to say the word aloud as they match—it reinforces reading.
  4. Fill your card and win: The first player to fill their entire card with matching tiles wins the round by yelling "Zingo!" For a longer game, play until someone completes two cards or use the advanced level with word-only cards. Decide before starting whether you're playing one round or a match to a set number of points.

Product spotlight

  • Ravensburger - Zingo!: Nominated TOTY 2009 Best Toy of the Year! This innovative game encourages pre-readers and early readers alike to match the pictures and words on their challenge cards with the tiles revealed in the Zingo! Zinger device. The Zinger device adds excitement and randomness, so each round feels fresh and helps kids practice picture-word matching without feeling like a lesson.

    Ravensburger - Zingo!

    Ravensburger - Zingo!