It might not often be considered the most fun game in the arena of gambling, but keno has loads of devout supporters. Why wouldn’t it? It’s a regularly entertaining lotto-ish game that’s easy to learn, readily available in loads of alternate styles, and one that might yield millions for players who master its innumerable subtle intricacies. But let’s start with the basic rules here.
When describing keno to beginners, some gambling pros compare it to lotto. This is at least nearly correct, in that each game is generally numerical. Yet to carry that comparison too far will be to undervalue the innumerable unique aspect that make keno so entertaining. Unlike bingo, keno enthusiasts have the freedom to pick the numbers for each card.
Keno cards have a total of 80 numbers, but the player is given an additional degree of personal responsibility by being able to decide on as many (or as few) numbers as he thinks is appropriate. And it doesn’t take a super genius to figure out how to fill out a card: all you do is circle or otherwise mark all your handpicked numbers with a every day oldmarker like you used when you were in third grade.
Now that you have marked your numbers, take the game card back to the girl at the keno stand. The nice person will record your numbers and then give you a receipt. Do not drop this (potentially) valuable bit of paper! Even if the keno pit manager remembers your face and wants help out, without a winning receipt in hand, you will be given exactly $.00 for your time spent.
Ok, there you have strategy number one: always make sure to keep your keno slip. Let’s get on to something a little bit more advanced, shall we?
After you’ve marked your numbers, settle into a nice keno booth and watch the action unfold on the big keno monitor. That’s where the winning numbers show up for all to see. If you selected winning numbers, mark your card accordingly. Make sure not to drag your feet, or sit there congratulating yourself for an obnoxious length of time. You are required to get up to the keno booth to get your winnings, since a new keno game will most likely begin within a few minutes.
Strategy #2: always get back to the keno stand on time!
Since you can not trust yourself to make that 5 minute margin each and every time, you always have the option of buying a "multi-race" ticket. These include the self same set of your handpicked numbers on anywhere from two to 20 slips. When the max amount of games (the same as the amount of tickets) is played, you will then be able to get off your numb rump and go retrieve your winnings.
Another choice is known as a "stray and play" keno slip, which usually lets you make number picks for 30 rounds or more. Hell, you can take a Swedish massage and not have to fret about getting back in time to redeem your winnings. Most "stray and play" game cards are good for up to a whole year after you purchase it!
So now you know several necessary schemes for winning keno. If you are an accomplished user, they might seem to be incredibly obvious. Still, it doesn’t hurt to brush up on the fundamentals, and if you are a beginner gambler, every little bit of advice will help make your keno gambling more agreeable.