It will not often be looked at as the most lucrative game in the world of wagering, but keno has millions and millions of devoted players. And it should! It’s a regularly entertaining lottery-ish game that’s uncomplicated to master, readily available in tons of different formats, and one that might pay out mega-dollars for those who learn its uncounted subtle nuances. But let’s begin with the basic facts for now.
When defining keno to amateurs, some gaming connoisseurs compare it to the lottery. This is at least tolerably apt, in that each game is basically numerical. But to carry that comparison too far is likely to be to discount the innumerable unique characteristics that make keno so compelling. Unlike bingo, keno players have the freedom to choose the numbers for every card.
Keno cards have a total of eighty numbers, but the user is given an increased level of personal responsibility by being able to determine as many (or as few) numbers as he feels they need. And it doesn’t take a doctor of keno to determine how to fill out a card: all you do is circle or otherwise mark each of your chosen numbers with a ordinary#2 pencil like you used back in the day.
Now that you have marked your numbers, carry your card back to the keno pit manager at the keno booth. The person will record your numbers and then give you a receipt. Don’t drop this (potentially) lucrative bit of paper! Even if the keno pit manager remembers your face and wants help out, without a winning ticket in hand, you will collect exactly $.00 for your winning card.
So, there you have strategy numero uno: always take care to keep your keno ticket. Let us move on to something a little bit more advanced, shall we?
Once you’ve marked your numbers, settle into a comfy keno booth and watch the action unfold on the big keno monitor. This is where the winning numbers are displayed in lights. If you marked winning numbers, mark your card appropriately. Be sure not to take your time, or sit there praising yourself for an obnoxious length of time. You are required to get back to the keno booth to collect your winnings, and a new drawing will certainly start up within not too many minutes.
Strategy number two: always make it back to the keno booth on time!
Since you can’t trust yourself to make that five-minute margin each time, you always have the option of purchasing a "multi-race" card. These include the self same set of your handpicked numbers on anywhere from two to twenty slips. When the maximum amount of games (the same as the amount of tickets) is finished, you may then get off your numb rump and go collect your winnings.
Yet an additional choice is recognized as a "stray and play" keno ticket, which usually lets you make number picks for 30 keno games or more. Hell, you can take all the time in the world and not have to worry about getting back in time to collect your numbers. Most "stray and play" slips are good for up to a whole year after you by it!
So now you are aware of a handful of essential strategies for winning keno. If you are a skillful user, they may seem incredibly obvious. But it won’t hurt to bone up on the basics, and if you are a new user, every tiny bit of advice will help make your keno gambling more exciting.