Peryahan: Relive the Filipino Gaming Culture

In the days past, small-town carnivals were a staple for communities, especially during festive seasons. May it be during summer, in barrio fiestas, or even throughout the Christmas rush, the perya was a permanent fixture in the Filipinos’ collective experience. People of all ages flock to these attractions to try out the much-loved rides like ruweda (Ferris Wheel), tsubibo (carousel), sasakyang rodilyo (rollercoaster), and the like. For those who were not in it for the rides, they kept themselves entertained by hopping from one game booth to another, hoping to score a prize.

However, urbanized cities have seen less and less of the perya over the years, with indoor amusement parks taking their place. It is perhaps its rarity nowadays that makes it interesting for today’s generation that is more accustomed to video games and mobile apps.

That being said, have any of these perya mainstays captured your interest (and wallet)?

1. Bingo
“Sa letrang B!” Once you hear the bingo master, you know the game is on. If your elders are nowhere in sight, they are likely in the bingo booth playing with their buddies.

Bingo is straightforward. Each player has at least one scorecard containing a random set of numbers, which the player strikes out if it matches with what the bingo master called out. A player wins once they cover a row of numbers vertically, horizontally, or diagonally. They shout “Bingo!” to signal their victory. Once verified, the jackpot is promptly awarded.

The hallmark of bingo is the silly ways the bingo master calls out the number. Often a joke, a rhyme, or a play on words, these keep an otherwise static game filled with excitement and laughter. Here is one example: “Baril ni Fernando Poe, kwarenta y singko!” Now, isn't that catchy?

2. Projectile Games
Skill-based games involving projectiles are standard fare in the peryahan. For example, the main goal of shooting games, whether using pellet guns or darts, is to hit targets like bottles or balloons. Tossing games, on the other hand, is all about successfully landing your projectile—a ring or a ball, into a target spot. In projectile games, players only have a limited number of shots, with the option to buy another round to continue playing and stack points for better rewards.

3. Roleta
Also a staple in the perya, the roulette wheel or roleta as we call it, is a game enjoyed by many due to how easy it can be played. No complicated mechanics or time-consuming preparations needed. Just adjust it however you like, then spin it as hard (or soft) as you want. The wheel is divided into slices; each indicating the item that can be won. Prizes are typically snacks, drinks, candies, toys, and in some cases, money. Just pray that the pointer does not stop at “bokya”. Better luck next time, if that is the case.

4. Color Game
This one is another perya favorite. In a nutshell, players first bet on a color, then the operator or “bangka” rolls the colored dice. If the color you chose appear, your bet is automatically doubled. If your choice is a no-show, your money goes to the operator. After which, you can start over and place another bet or save yourself and your wallet from another heartbreak.

5. Drop Ball
Pray the balls land where you laid your stakes. In Drop Ball, players put their bets on any of the cards, then they drop the ball in a funnel suspended over the gaming table. Once the ball exits the funnel, players are at the mercy of the ball’s bounce. If the ball lands where you bet, you win a double payout. Like in color games, it can go on for as long as the player deems fit. However, as the winnings increase, so do the potential losses. Just remember there is no shame in walking away with a handful of prize money.

The perya is becoming rarer nowadays. Luckily, the gaming app BingoPlus is bringing its thrill and excitement directly to you with their latest product: BingoPlus’ Pinoy Drop Ball!

Recently unveiled at the Grand Hyatt Manila in Taguig, BingoPlus’ Pinoy Drop Ball treats players to a nostalgic game with a modern twist, while also staying true to its cultural roots. It is also the first ever livestreamed drop ball game in the Philippines, keeping this perya game’s vibe and charm organic.

BingoPlus’ Pinoy Drop Ball follows a simple mechanic. If a card has one ball, players get a double payout; triple if it has two balls. With three balls on a card, the game enters a special Pachinko round where players have a chance at bigger rewards.

Following through with its mission to redefine digital entertainment and to bring top-tier gaming experience to Filipinos, BingoPlus has invested heavily on research and development to ensure that their digital games, like the new Pinoy Drop Ball, truly captures the essence of its Filipino roots, while at the same time bringing this cultural hallmark to a more convenient, mobile-friendly format. BingoPlus is also licensed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, so players can rest assured that they are dealing with a fair, safe, and real-time game experience.

“As a brand deeply rooted in Filipino culture, it has been our mission to elevate traditional Pinoy entertainment and bring this experience to the modern age. Drop Ball is another leap forward in this mission, as BingoPlus continues to bridge offline traditions with modern technology, creating a more seamless and exciting experience for all,” DigiPlus Interactive Corp. Chariman Eusebio H. Tanco said during the grand reveal.

Now, you do not have to wait for the next fiesta to have a shot at perya favorites. Excitement is at the palm of your hand anytime and anywhere, with BingoPlus!