It might not often be deemed the most fun game in the world of wagering, but keno has millions of devout supporters. And it should! It’s a regularly entertaining lottery-type game that’s uncomplicated to play, abundantly available in tons of different formats, and one that might pay out mega-dollars for players who learn its innumerable subtle rules. But let’s start with the basic rules here.
When explaining keno to novices, some gaming pros compare it to bingo. This is at least in some ways apt, in that each game is basically numerical. Yet to carry that comparison too far might be to discount the many unique characteristics that make keno so exciting. Unlike bingo, keno users have the ability to choose the numbers for each and every card.
Keno cards have a total of eighty numbers, but the gambler is granted an increased degree of personal responsibility by being able to choose as numerous (or as few) numbers as he thinks is appropriate. And it doesn’t take a keno superstar to figure out how to fill out a card: all you do is circle or otherwise mark all of your desired numbers with a good oldmarker like you had when you were in third grade.
After you’ve marked your numbers, carry your keno card back to the person at the keno booth. The nice person will record your numbers and then give you a receipt. Don’t misplace this (potentially) lucrative piece of paper! Even if the keno pit manager remembers your loud shirt and would like to help out, without a winning receipt with you, you will be given precisely $.00 for your time spent.
And there you have strategy number one: always be sure to keep your keno ticket. Let us go on to something a tiny bit more useful, shall we?
Now that you’ve selected your numbers, get into a nice keno booth and watch the action take place on the monitor. This is where the winning numbers are displayed for us. If you selected winners, mark your card appropriately. Be sure not to dilly dally, or sit there congratulating yourself for too great a length of time. You need to get back to the keno stand to collect your winnings, as a new round of keno will certainly start up within a few minutes.
Strategy number two: always go back to the keno stand on time!
Assuming you do not trust yourself to meet that 5 minute margin every time, you always have the option of buying a "multi-race" card. These include the very same set of your handpicked numbers on anywhere from two to twenty slips. When the maximum number of games (the same as the amount of tickets) is played, you are then able to get off your lazy bum and go collect your winnings.
Still another option is referred to as a "stray and play" keno slip, which commonly allows you make number picks for thirty games or more. Heck, you can take an ocean cruise and not have to fret about getting back in time to redeem your winnings. Most "stray and play" slips are good for up to a whole year after it’s bought!
And now you know a few essential strategies for winning keno. If you are a discerning gambler, they might seem quite obvious. Still, it will not hurt to brush up on the basic strategies, and if you are a novice player, every bit of direction will help make your keno experience more exciting.