It may not generally be considered the funnest game in the realm of gambling, but keno has loads of zealous supporters. And why not? It’s a constantly thrilling lottery-type game that’s simple to pickup, readily available in many different styles, and one that may pay out millions for those who master its heaps of subtle rules. But let’s start with the basic rules for now.
When defining keno to newbies, some gaming connoisseurs compare it to lotto. This is at least in part apt, in that both games are basically numerical. However, to carry that comparison too far will be to undervalue the countless unique traits that make keno so fun. Not like bingo, keno players have the freedom to select the numbers for every card.
Keno cards have a grand total of 80 numbers, but the player is furnished with an extra degree of personal responsibility by being able to pick as numerous (or as few) numbers as he or she feels they need. And it doesn’t take a genius to come up with how to fill out a card: all you do is circle or otherwise mark all of your chosen numbers with a normal#2 pencil like you used back in the day.
After you’ve checked your numbers, take your keno card back to the keno pit manager at the keno stand. The keno pit manager will record your numbers and then give you a receipt. Don’t drop this (potentially) valuable bit of paper! Even if the clerk remembers your face and would like to help out, without a winning slip with you, you will get precisely $.00 for your efforts.
Ok, there you have strategy numero uno: always be sure to keep your keno ticket. Let’s go on to something a little bit more advanced, ok?
Once you’ve marked your numbers, settle into a nice keno booth and see the action happen on the keno monitor. This is where the winning numbers appear for all to see. If you have winning numbers, mark your card appropriately. Make sure not to move to slowly, or sit there praising yourself for an obnoxious length of time. You must get up to the keno stand to redeem your winnings, since a new round of keno will most likely begin within not too many minutes.
Strategy number two: always make it back to the keno booth on time!
Assuming you don’t trust yourself to make that five-minute deadline every time, you always have the option of buying a "multi-race" ticket. These include the same set of your desired numbers on anywhere from two to 20 slips. When the max number of rounds (fitting the number of tickets) is played, you will then be able to get off your numb rump and go retrieve your winnings.
Another option is referred to as a "stray and play" keno card, which commonly allows you make number picks for 30 keno games or more. Gosh, you can take all the time in the world and not have to worry about getting back in time to get your winnings. Most "stray and play" slips are good for up to a whole year after it’s purchased!
And now you know a couple required schemes for winning keno. If you are an accomplished player, they might seem quite obvious. However, it will not hurt to bone up on the fundamentals, and if you are a beginner player, every little bit of information will help make your keno playing more fun.
