It may not generally be seen as the sexiest game in the field of gaming, but keno has millions and millions of passionate fans. And why not? It’s a regularly thrilling lottery-style game that’s a breeze to play, readily available in several different variations, and one that will return millions for those who learn its endless subtle rules. But let’s start with the beginner’s rules here.
When explaining keno to newbies, some wagering pros compare it to lotto. This is at least to some extent correct, in that each game is essentially numerical. However, to carry that comparison too far might be to undervalue the innumerable unique traits that make keno so exciting. Unlike bingo, keno gamblers have the ability to select the numbers for each card.
Keno cards have a grand total of 80 numbers, but the gambler is given an increased degree of personal responsibility by being able to select as numerous (or as few) numbers as he or she wants. And it doesn’t take a genius to figure out how to fill out a card: all you do is circle or otherwise mark all of your desired numbers with a ordinarypen like you had back in the day.
Once you have checked your numbers, take the keno card back to the clerk at the keno booth. The girl will record your numbers and then hand you a receipt. Do not misplace this (potentially) lucrative piece of paper! Even if the keno pit manager remembers your face and wants help out, without a winning ticket with you, you will get precisely $.00 for your actions.
So, there you have strategy number one: always take care to keep your keno receipt. Let’s go on to something a bit more complex, ok?
Now that you’ve selected your numbers, get yourself into a nice keno booth and observe the action unfold on the monitor. That is where the winning numbers are displayed for us. If you selected winners, mark your card appropriately. Make sure not to dilly dally, or sit there congratulating yourself for an obnoxious length of time. You want to get back to the keno stand to redeem your winnings, as a new keno game will probably start within not too many minutes.
Strategy number 2: always be sure to get back to the keno stand on time!
Since you don’t trust yourself to meet that 5 minute deadline each time, you always retain the option of buying a "multi-race" card. These include the same set of your picked numbers on anywhere from 2 to twenty cards. When the max amount of games (matching the number of tickets) is played, you can then get off your lazy back side and go get your winnings.
Yet an additional choice is referred to as a "stray and play" keno ticket, which usually lets you make number picks for 30 games or more. Hell, you can take vacation to Italy and not have to fret about getting back in time to retrieve your winnings. Most "stray and play" cards are good for up to a whole year after it’s bought!
And now you know a couple of necessary techniques for winning keno. If you are an advanced keno player, they might seem to be quite obvious. However, it will never hurt to bone up on the basic techniques, and if you are a beginner player, every tiny bit of direction will help make your keno experience more fun.