It may not generally be considered the most lucrative game in the realm of gambling, but keno has millions of zealous followers. As well it should! It’s a regularly thrilling lotto-style game that’s uncomplicated to master, readily available in tons of different variations, and one that can return millions of dollars for gamblers who master its endless subtle nuances. But let’s start with the basic rules for now.
When defining keno to newbies, some gaming masters compare it to bingo. This is at least tolerably correct, in that both games are essentially numerical. But to take that comparison too far can be to detract from the innumerable unique traits that make keno so entertaining. Not like bingo, keno players have the ability to pick the numbers for each card.
Keno cards have a total of 80 numbers, but the player is granted an increased level of personal responsibility by being able to decide on as many (or as few) numbers as he desires. And it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to ascertain how to fill out a card: all you do is circle or otherwise mark all your chosen numbers with a standardball point pen like you had back in the day.
Once you’ve marked your numbers, carry your keno card back to the person at the keno booth. The keno pit manager will record your numbers and then hand you a receipt. Do not drop this (potentially) lucrative bit of paper! Even if the keno pit manager remembers your pretty face and wants help out, without a winning receipt with you, you will get exactly $.00 for your actions.
So, there you have strategy number one: always be sure to keep your keno receipt. Let us get on to something a little more complicated, what do you think?
Once you’ve picked out your numbers, get yourself into a comfortable keno booth and watch the action unfold on a video monitor. That’s where the winning numbers are displayed in lights. If you picked winning numbers, mark your card appropriately. Make sure not to dilly dally, or sit there praising yourself for an obnoxious length of time. You need to get back to the keno stand to redeem your winnings, since a new round of keno will almost certainly start within five minutes.
Strategy number two: always get back to the keno stand on time!
Assuming you don’t trust yourself to beat that 5 minute deadline each and every time, you always retain the option of purchasing a "multi-race" ticket. These include the same set of your desired numbers on anywhere from 2 to 20 slips. When the maximum amount of keno games (fitting the amount of tickets) is finished, you will then be able to get off your lazy back side and go retrieve your winnings.
Another alternative is known as a "stray and play" keno ticket, which usually allows you make number choices for 30 keno games or more. Heck, you can take vacation to Italy and not have to get uptight about getting back in time to get your numbers. Most "stray and play" tickets are good for up to a whole year after you purchase it!
So now you have learned a couple required strategies for winning keno. If you are a skillful gambler, they may seem very obvious. But it does not hurt to study up on the fundamentals, and if you are a beginner player, every tiny bit of advice will help make your keno playing time more captivating.