It won’t usually be considered the funnest game in the world of betting, but keno has tons of dedicated supporters. As well it should! It’s a consistently entertaining lottery-style game that’s a snap to learn, readily available in many alternate styles, and one that might yield millions of dollars for those who learn its endless subtle nuances. But let’s begin with the basic facts here.
When describing keno to newbies, some wagering pros compare it to lotto. This is at least partly correct, in that both games are generally numerical. However, to carry that comparison too far can be to think too little of the countless unique aspect that make keno so exciting. Not like bingo, keno gamblers have the power to select the numbers for every card.
Keno cards have a total of 80 numbers, but the user is given an additional degree of personal responsibility by being able to pick as numerous (or as few) numbers as he feels they need. And it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to come up with how to fill out a card: all you do is circle or otherwise mark each of your chosen numbers with a good old#2 pencil like you used when you were in third grade.
After you’ve picked your numbers, carry your keno card back to the person at the keno booth. The person will record those numbers and then give you a receipt. Do not drop this (potentially) lucrative piece of paper! Even if the clerk remembers your loud shirt and would like to help out, without a winning slip on you, you will win precisely $.00 for your winning card.
OK, so there you have strategy numero uno: always take care to keep your keno slip. Let us move on to something a tiny bit more complicated, shall we?
Once you’ve picked your numbers, get yourself into a comfortable keno booth and observe the action unfold on the keno monitor. That is where the winning numbers show up for all to see. If you picked winners, mark your card appropriately. Make sure not to dilly dally, or sit there congratulating yourself for an obnoxious length of time. You must get back to the keno stand to get your winnings, and a new round of keno will likely begin within 5 minutes.
Strategy #2: always go back to the keno booth on time!
Assuming you don’t trust yourself to meet that 5 minute margin each and every time, you always have the option of using a "multi-race" card. These include the very same set of your selected numbers on anywhere from 2 to 20 slips. When the max amount of rounds (fitting the number of tickets) is completed, you are then able to get off your lazy bum and go get your winnings.
Yet another option is referred to as a "stray and play" keno slip, which generally lets you make number choices for 30 games or more. Heck, you can take vacation to Greece and not have to fret about getting back in time to collect your numbers. Most "stray and play" slips are good for up to a whole year after you purchase it!
So now you have learned a couple of needed methods for winning keno. If you are an adept keno player, they may appear to be quite obvious. But it won’t hurt to study up on the basic practices, and if you are a new gambler, every little bit of direction will help make your keno playing time more agreeable.