It will not commonly be deemed the sexiest game in the universe of gaming, but keno has loads of devout fans. And why not? It’s a routinely exciting lottery-like game that’s uncomplicated to pickup, abundantly available in tons of assorted formats, and one that can yield millions for players who learn its limitless subtle nuances. But let’s deal with the basic facts for now.
When defining keno to newcomers, some gaming connoisseurs compare it to the lottery. This is at least partially correct, in that both games are essentially numerical. Yet to carry that comparison too far will be to undervalue the innumerable unique characteristics that make keno so exciting. Not like bingo, keno users have the freedom to choose the numbers for every card.
Keno cards have a grand total of eighty numbers, but the gambler is given an extra degree of personal responsibility by being able to pick as many (or as few) numbers as she wants. And it doesn’t take a nuclear physicist to determine how to fill out a card: all you do is circle or otherwise mark all of your picked numbers with a standard#2 pencil like you had back in the day.
Once you have checked your numbers, take the 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 lose this (potentially) expensive piece of paper! Even if the clerk remembers you and would like to help out, without a winning ticket with you, you will be given exactly $.00 for your actions.
OK, so there you have strategy number one: always make sure to keep your keno receipt. Let’s move on to something a bit more advanced, ok?
Now that you’ve picked out your numbers, get into a comfy keno booth and see the action unfold on the screen. That’s where the winning numbers show up in lights. If you checked winners, mark your card appropriately. Be sure not to move to slowly, or sit there praising yourself for an obnoxious length of time. You must get back to the keno stand to redeem your winnings, since a new keno game will almost certainly start up within five minutes.
Strategy #2: always be sure to get back to the keno stand on time!
Assuming you don’t trust yourself to beat that five-minute deadline every time, you always retain the option of purchasing a "multi-race" ticket. These include the self same set of your chosen numbers on anywhere from 2 to twenty slips. When the max amount of keno games (the same as the amount of tickets) is played out, you will then be able to get off your lazy bum and go collect your winnings.
Another option is recognized as a "stray and play" keno slip, which usually allows you make number choices for thirty rounds or more. Golly, you can take all the time in the world 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!
And now you have learned several required schemes for winning keno. If you are a knowledgeable keno player, they might seem to be stupidly obvious. However, it will never hurt to study up on the basics, and if you are a new user, every little bit of direction will help make your keno gambling more exciting.
