It will not often be thought of as the most lucrative game in the universe of gaming, but keno has millions and millions of devout enthusiasts. And it ought to! It’s a routinely exciting lotto-type game that’s simple to play, readily available in many alternate variations, and one that may yield millions for those who master its numerous subtle nuances. But let’s start with the basics here.

When explaining keno to novices, some wagering connoisseurs compare it to the lottery. This is at least to some extent correct, in that each game is essentially numerical. But to carry that comparison too far will be to discount the endless unique aspect that make keno so exciting. Not like bingo, keno players have the ability to choose the numbers for each card.

Keno cards have a total of 80 numbers, but the player is furnished with an increased degree of personal responsibility by being able to select as numerous (or as few) numbers as she needs. And it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to ascertain how to fill out a card: all you do is circle or otherwise mark all your picked numbers with a standardpen like you used back in school.

Now that you have checked your numbers, take your game card back to the girl at the keno booth. The girl will record those numbers and then give you a receipt. Don’t drop this (potentially) valuable piece of paper! Even if the keno pit manager remembers you and wants help out, without a winning receipt with you, you will win exactly $.00 for your time spent.

OK, so there you have strategy number one: always take care to keep your keno ticket. Let’s move to something a little more complex, ok?

Once you’ve selected your numbers, settle into a comfortable keno booth and see the action take place on the keno monitor. This is where the winning numbers are shown for all to see. If you have winning numbers, mark your card appropriately. Sake care not to take your time, or sit there praising yourself for too great a length of time. You must get back to the keno booth to redeem your winnings, since a new drawing will likely get going within a few minutes.

Strategy #2: always get back to the keno stand on time!

Assuming you can’t trust yourself to make that five-minute deadline each and every time, you always retain the option of purchasing a "multi-race" card. These include the same set of your desired numbers on anywhere from two to 20 cards. When the maximum amount of keno games (the same as the number of tickets) is played out, you will then be able to get off your numb butt and go retrieve your winnings.

Another alternative is known as a "stray and play" keno ticket, which commonly allows you make number picks for 30 keno rounds or more. Hell, you can take an ocean cruise and not have to worry about getting back in time to redeem your numbers. Most "stray and play" slips are good for up to a whole year after you by it!

So now you have learned a number of indispensable schemes for winning keno. If you are a discerning keno player, they may seem to be quite obvious. However, it doesn’t hurt to bone up on the basic practices, and if you are a beginner keno player, every tiny bit of direction will help make your keno experience more entertaining.