It might not commonly be looked at as the sexiest game in the universe of wagering, but keno has huge amounts of devoted enthusiasts. As well it should! It’s a regularly exciting lottery-ish game that’s a snap to pickup, abundantly available in tons of different formats, and one that may yield millions for people who learn its many subtle nuances. But let’s begin with the basic rules for now.
When describing keno to newcomers, some wagering connoisseurs compare it to the lottery. This is at least in some ways apt, in that each game is essentially numerical. Yet to carry that comparison too far can be to misunderstand the many unique traits that make keno so interesting. Unlike bingo, keno gamblers have the power to choose the numbers for each and every card.
Keno cards have a total of 80 numbers, but the player is granted an extra level of personal responsibility by being able to choose as numerous (or as few) numbers as she needs. And it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to determine how to fill out a card: all you do is circle or otherwise mark all of your desired numbers with a good old#2 pencil like you had back in the day.
After you have picked your numbers, take the card back to the keno pit manager at the keno booth. The person will record those numbers and then give you a receipt. Don’t misplace this (potentially) expensive piece of paper! Even if the keno pit manager remembers your loud shirt and wants help out, without a winning slip with you, you will be given precisely $.00 for your actions.
And there you have strategy numero uno: always make sure to keep your keno receipt. Let us move on to something a little bit more complicated, yes?
Now that you’ve picked out your numbers, settle into a comfy keno booth and see the action take place on the big keno monitor. That’s where the winning numbers appear in lights. If you checked winning numbers, mark your card appropriately. Sake care not to take too much time, or sit there congratulating yourself for too great a length of time. You need to get back to the keno stand to redeem your winnings, as a new drawing will surely begin within a few minutes.
Strategy number 2: always make it back to the keno booth on time!
Assuming you can’t trust yourself to beat that five-minute deadline each and every time, you always have the option of using a "multi-race" card. These include the self same set of your handpicked numbers on anywhere from two to 20 cards. When the maximum amount of rounds (fitting the number of tickets) is completed, you may then get off your lazy back side and go collect your winnings.
Another option is known as a "stray and play" keno ticket, which commonly allows you make number selection for 30 keno rounds or more. Golly, you can take vacation to Greece and not have to get uptight about getting back in time to collect your winnings. Most "stray and play" cards are good for up to a whole year after purchase!
And now you are aware of a few required schemes for winning keno. If you are an advanced player, they might appear to be incredibly obvious. But it does not hurt to study up on the basic strategies, and if you are a beginner player, every little bit of information will help make your keno gambling more enjoyable.
