It may not commonly be thought of as the sexiest game in the arena of gambling, but keno has massive amounts of keen enthusiasts. And it should! It’s a consistently exciting lottery-like game that’s simple to learn, abundantly available in lots of assorted formats, and one that will return millions of dollars for those who learn its endless subtle nuances. But let’s start with the beginner’s rules here.
When defining keno to novices, some betting connoisseurs compare it to lotto. This is at least tolerably correct, in that both games are basically numerical. But to take that comparison too far can be to underrate the great many unique characteristics that make keno so fun. Unlike bingo, keno users have the freedom to choose the numbers for each and every card.
Keno cards have a grand total of eighty numbers, but the gambler is given an extra level of personal responsibility by being able to determine as numerous (or as few) numbers as she desires. And it doesn’t take a super genius to determine how to fill out a card: all you do is circle or otherwise mark all of your selected numbers with a ordinarymarker like you had when you were a kid.
Now that you’ve checked your numbers, take the game card back to the keno pit manager at the keno stand. The person will record those numbers and then hand you a receipt. Do not drop this (potentially) lucrative piece of paper! Even if the keno pit manager remembers your face and wants help out, without a winning receipt in hand, you will be given exactly $.00 for your efforts.
OK, so there you have strategy numero uno: always be sure to keep your keno slip. Let us advance to something a bit more complicated, what do you think?
Now that you’ve picked out your numbers, settle into a comfortable keno booth and watch the action happen on a monitor. That is where the winning numbers show up for all to see. If you picked winning numbers, mark your card accordingly. Make sure not to drag your feet, or sit there congratulating yourself for too great a length of time. You are required to get back to the keno stand to get your winnings, since a new round of keno will probably begin within 5 minutes.
Strategy number 2: always make it back to the keno booth on time!
Assuming you do not trust yourself to make that 5 minute deadline every time, you always retain the option of purchasing a "multi-race" card. These include the same set of your selected numbers on anywhere from two to 20 tickets. When the maximum number of games (matching the amount of tickets) is completed, you should then get off your lazy rump and go get your winnings.
Another option is recognized as a "stray and play" keno slip, which normally lets you make number selection for thirty keno games or more. Hell, you can take vacation to Greece and not have to worry about getting back in time to redeem your numbers. Most "stray and play" cards are good for up to a whole year after it’s bought!
And now you have learned a couple indispensable techniques for winning keno. If you are a skillful keno player, they may appear to be stupidly obvious. But it does not hurt to study up on the basic strategies, and if you are a beginner player, every little bit of direction will help make your keno betting more agreeable.