It may not generally be considered the most lucrative game in the realm of gaming, but keno has huge amounts of devout followers. And it should! It’s a constantly exciting lottery-like game that’s uncomplicated to master, readily available in lots of alternate variations, and one that may yield mega-dollars for people who learn its many subtle intricacies. But let’s start with the beginner’s rules here.
When describing keno to beginners, some betting pros compare it to lotto. This is at least tolerably apt, in that each game is generally numerical. However, to take that comparison too far might be to detract from the many unique characteristics that make keno so entertaining. Unlike bingo, keno users have the power to select the numbers for every card.
Keno cards have a grand total of eighty numbers, but the gambler is granted an additional level of personal responsibility by being able to select as many (or as few) numbers as he wants. And it doesn’t take a keno superstar to ascertain how to fill out a card: all you do is circle or otherwise mark each of your handpicked numbers with a ordinary#2 pencil like you used when you were in third grade.
Once you’ve selected your numbers, carry your card back to the clerk at the keno stand. The keno pit manager will record your numbers and then give you a receipt. Make sure no to drop this (potentially) valuable bit of paper! Even if the clerk remembers your pretty face and would like to help out, without a winning ticket on you, you will get exactly $.00 for your actions.
Ok, there you have strategy numero uno: always make sure to keep your keno slip. Let’s get on to something a little more complex, what do you think?
After you’ve marked your numbers, get yourself into a nice keno booth and watch the action unfold on a monitor. That is where the winning numbers are displayed for us. If you checked winners, mark your card aptly. Sake care not to dally, or sit there congratulating yourself for too great a length of time. You need to get up to the keno booth to collect your winnings, as a new round of keno will most likely begin within five minutes.
Strategy #2: always make it back to the keno booth on time!
Since you don’t trust yourself to beat that 5 minute margin every time, you always retain the option of purchasing a "multi-race" card. These include the same set of your picked numbers on anywhere from 2 to twenty cards. When the max number of keno games (matching the number of tickets) is finished, you can then get off your lazy back side and go redeem your winnings.
Yet another opportunity is recognized as a "stray and play" keno slip, which normally allows you make number choices for 30 games or more. Hell, you can take vacation to Italy and not have to worry about getting back in time to redeem your winnings. Most "stray and play" game tickets are good for up to a whole year after you purchase it!
And now you are aware of a couple of indispensable methods for winning keno. If you are a skillful gambler, they might seem to be very obvious. But it will not hurt to study up on the basic strategies, and if you are a new keno player, every bit of advice will help make your keno playing time more agreeable.