It won’t usually be considered the sexiest game in the world of wagering, but keno has millions and millions of steadfast enthusiasts. As well it should! It’s a consistently exciting lottery-like game that’s simple to play, readily available in lots of assorted styles, and one that will pay out mega-dollars for gamblers who learn its uncounted subtle intricacies. But let’s begin with the basic rules here.
When defining keno to novices, some betting experts compare it to the lottery. This is at least to some extent apt, in that each game is generally numerical. But to carry that comparison too far might be to minimize the many unique characteristics that make keno so compelling. Unlike bingo, keno players have the ability to select the numbers for each card.
Keno cards have a total of 80 numbers, but the player is granted an increased degree of personal responsibility by being able to choose as numerous (or as few) numbers as he feels they need. And it doesn’t take a keno superstar to come up with 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 when you were in school.
Once you’ve selected your numbers, take your game card back to the person at the keno stand. The clerk will record your numbers and then give you a receipt. Make sure no to drop this (potentially) expensive piece of paper! Even if the keno pit manager remembers your loud shirt and wants help out, without a winning ticket with you, you will win exactly $.00 for your time spent.
OK, so there you have strategy numero uno: always make sure to keep your keno receipt. Let us get on to something a little more useful, ok?
Once you’ve selected your numbers, get into a comfy keno booth and watch the action happen on the keno monitor. That is where the winning numbers show up for us. If you marked winners, mark your card aptly. Make sure not to take your time, or sit there praising yourself for an obnoxious length of time. You must get up to the keno booth to collect your winnings, and a new drawing will almost certainly start within not too many minutes.
Strategy number two: always get back to the keno booth on time!
Assuming you do not trust yourself to beat that 5 minute margin every time, you always retain the option of using a "multi-race" card. These include the self same set of your handpicked numbers on anywhere from 2 to twenty cards. When the max amount of rounds (the same as the number of tickets) is played out, you should then get off your lazy back side and go redeem your winnings.
Yet an additional option is recognized as a "stray and play" keno ticket, which usually allows you make number picks for 30 keno games or more. Golly, you can take all the time in the world and not have to fret about getting back in time to redeem your winnings. Most "stray and play" tickets are good for up to a whole year after it’s purchased!
So now you know a couple needed strategies for winning keno. If you are an accomplished keno player, they may seem to be very obvious. Still, it does not hurt to bone up on the fundamentals, and if you are a novice user, every little bit of advice will help make your keno betting more fun.