It may not often be thought of as the most fun game in the field of betting, but keno has millions and millions of steadfast followers. And it ought to! It’s a regularly thrilling lottery-like game that’s easy to learn, readily available in tons of different styles, and one that might pay out mega-dollars for those who learn its heaps of subtle intricacies. But let’s start with the basic rules for now.
When defining keno to newcomers, some gaming masters compare it to lotto. This is at least in some ways correct, in that both games are essentially numerical. But to carry that comparison too far will be to discount the countless unique characteristics that make keno so entertaining. Unlike bingo, keno users have the ability to pick the numbers for every card.
Keno cards have a total of 80 numbers, but the player is granted an increased degree of personal responsibility by being able to select as numerous (or as few) numbers as she thinks is appropriate. And it doesn’t take a doctor of keno to ascertain how to fill out a card: all you do is circle or otherwise mark all your desired numbers with a normalball point pen like you had back in the day.
Once you have picked your numbers, carry the keno card back to the person at the keno stand. The clerk will record those numbers and then give you a receipt. Make sure no to drop this (potentially) lucrative bit of paper! Even if the clerk remembers your face and wants help out, without a winning receipt on you, you will get exactly $.00 for your efforts.
Now there you have strategy number one: always make sure to keep your keno ticket. Let us go on to something a little bit more advanced, yes?
After you’ve checked off your numbers, settle into a nice keno booth and see the action take place on the video monitor. This is where the winning numbers are shown for all to see. If you selected winning numbers, mark your card aptly. Make sure not to drag your feet, or sit there praising yourself for too great a length of time. You must get back to the keno stand to get your winnings, since a new keno game will likely start up within a few minutes.
Strategy #2: always make it back to the keno stand on time!
Since you can’t trust yourself to beat that 5 minute margin each and every time, you always retain the option of using a "multi-race" card. These include the self same set of your selected numbers on anywhere from two to 20 slips. When the maximum amount of games (matching the number of tickets) is completed, you are then able to get off your numb rump and go get your winnings.
Yet another choice is recognized as a "stray and play" keno slip, which generally lets you make number selection for 30 keno games or more. Heck, you can take a Swedish massage and not have to worry about getting back in time to retrieve your winnings. Most "stray and play" game cards are good for up to a whole year after you purchase it!
And now you have learned a few needed techniques for winning keno. If you are a good keno player, they may seem to be quite obvious. But it will not hurt to brush up on the fundamentals, and if you are a new keno player, every bit of direction will help make your keno playing more fun.