It may not often be seen as the most lucrative game in the realm of gambling, but keno has loads of steadfast admirers. Why wouldn’t it? It’s a consistently thrilling lotto-esque game that’s simple to learn, readily available in tons of different styles, and one that will pay out mega-dollars for gamblers who learn its numerous subtle rules. But let’s deal with the beginner’s rules here.
When describing keno to beginners, some betting masters compare it to the lottery. This is at least to a certain extent correct, in that both games are essentially numerical. But to carry that comparison too far will be to devalue the many unique traits that make keno so entertaining. Unlike bingo, keno users have the freedom to pick the numbers for each card.
Keno cards have a total of 80 numbers, but the user is granted an extra level of personal responsibility by being able to choose as numerous (or as few) numbers as she wants. And it doesn’t take a doctor of keno to ascertain how to fill out a card: all you do is circle or otherwise mark all of your picked numbers with a normalball point pen like you had when you were in school.
Once you have selected your numbers, take the card back to the person at the keno stand. The nice person will record your numbers and then hand you a receipt. Do not lose this (potentially) lucrative bit of paper! Even if the clerk remembers your pretty face and would like to help out, without a winning slip with you, you will collect precisely $.00 for your efforts.
Ok, there you have strategy numero uno: always make sure to keep your keno receipt. Let’s move to something a bit more useful, ok?
Once you’ve selected your numbers, settle into a comfy keno booth and observe the action happen on the screen. That’s where the winning numbers appear for all to see. If you’ve got winning numbers, mark your card aptly. Be sure not to dally, or sit there congratulating yourself for too great a length of time. You want to get up to the keno booth to get your winnings, and then a new round of keno will most likely start up within not too many minutes.
Strategy number 2: always make it back to the keno stand on time!
Since you do not trust yourself to meet that 5 minute margin every time, you always retain the option of purchasing a "multi-race" card. These include the same set of your handpicked numbers on anywhere from 2 to 20 cards. When the maximum amount of keno games (matching the number of tickets) is finished, you are then able to get off your numb bum and go retrieve your winnings.
Still another option is referred to as a "stray and play" keno ticket, which generally lets you make number choices for 30 keno games or more. Golly, you can take vacation to Greece and not have to worry about getting back in time to redeem your numbers. Most "stray and play" tickets are good for up to a whole year after it’s bought!
So now you know a number of needed strategies for winning keno. If you are a skillful keno player, they might seem quite obvious. However, it doesn’t hurt to bone up on the basics, and if you are a new player, every little bit of information will help make your keno playing more exciting.