It will not generally be considered the most fun game in the arena of gaming, but keno has loads of dedicated admirers. Why wouldn’t it? It’s a constantly entertaining lotto-esque game that’s a breeze to master, readily available in tons of assorted styles, and one that can yield millions of dollars for people who master its endless subtle intricacies. But let’s begin with the beginner’s rules for now.
When describing keno to amateurs, some wagering experts compare it to the lottery. This is at least to some extent correct, in that each game is generally numerical. But to carry that comparison too far can be to downplay the countless unique aspect that make keno so entertaining. Unlike bingo, keno players have the ability to choose the numbers for each card.
Keno cards have a grand total of eighty numbers, but the gambler is furnished with an extra degree of personal responsibility by being able to choose as many (or as few) numbers as she desires. And it doesn’t take a nuclear physicist to ascertain how to fill out a card: all you do is circle or otherwise mark all your handpicked numbers with a normalpen like you used when you were a kid.
Once you’ve selected your numbers, carry the game card back to the clerk at the keno stand. The clerk will record your numbers and then hand you a receipt. Don’t lose this (potentially) valuable piece of paper! Even if the keno pit manager remembers your mug and wants help out, without a winning ticket with you, you will get exactly $.00 for your efforts.
Ok, there you have strategy number one: always be sure to keep your keno slip. Let’s get on to something a little more complicated, ok?
After you’ve marked your numbers, get yourself into a comfortable keno booth and see the action unfold on the keno monitor. This is where the winning numbers are shown for us. If you checked winners, mark your card appropriately. Sake care not to drag your feet, or sit there praising yourself for too great a length of time. You want to get back to the keno stand to collect your winnings, since a new round of keno will probably start up within 5 minutes.
Strategy #2: always go back to the keno booth on time!
Assuming you do not trust yourself to meet that five-minute deadline each and every time, you always retain the option of purchasing a "multi-race" card. These include the self same set of your picked numbers on anywhere from two to 20 slips. When the max number of games (matching the number of tickets) is completed, you may then get off your numb back side and go get your winnings.
Another opportunity is recognized as a "stray and play" keno slip, which generally allows you make number choices for thirty keno rounds or more. Heck, you can take vacation to France and not have to fret about getting back in time to redeem your winnings. Most "stray and play" game tickets are good for up to a whole year after it’s purchased!
And now you have learned a few indispensable strategies for winning keno. If you are a knowledgeable user, they may seem quite obvious. But it won’t hurt to bone up on the fundamentals, and if you are a beginner user, every little bit of direction will help make your keno wagering more exciting.
