Keno Casino Games

Online Keno is a digital version of the classic lottery-style game, beloved for its simplicity and the excitement of the chance to win. In casinos, it's known for its fast-paced nature and the flexibility it offers players in terms of betting options.

The game consists of choosing numbers and waiting for the draw to see if your numbers are selected.

History and Origins

Keno's roots can be traced back over 2,000 years ago to China. The game's creation is often attributed to Cheung Leung, a ruler who used it to raise funds for the military. Legend has it that the game's popularity helped finance significant projects like the Great Wall of China. 

Keno's journey to the West began in the 19th century with Chinese immigrants, and it underwent various adaptations to become the game we know today. With the advent of the internet, Keno naturally found its place in online casinos.

Basic Rules

In online Keno, players select numbers (typically between 1 and 80). After selections are made, a draw occurs where a set number of numbers (usually 20) are randomly chosen. Players can usually select up to 10 or 15 numbers, but this can vary depending on the game or casino.

Objective of the Game

The primary objective in Keno is to predict as many of the drawn numbers as possible. The more numbers you correctly predict, the higher your potential winnings. Payouts depend on the number of matches you have, the total numbers you chose, and the amount you wagered.

Values and How Counted

The 'values' in Keno are the numbers selected by the player and the numbers that are subsequently drawn. The count of how many numbers the player guessed correctly determines the winnings. 

The paytable varies from one casino to another but generally offers higher payouts for a higher number of correct guesses.

The Flow of the Game: Dealing, Players' Options

1. Number Selection: Players start by choosing their preferred numbers on a digital Keno card.
2. Bet Placement: Players decide the amount they wish to wager on their selection.
3. The Draw: The game randomly draws a predetermined number of balls/numbers.
4. Outcome and Payouts: If a sufficient number of the player's chosen numbers match the drawn numbers, the player wins. The payout is based on the number of matches and the wagered amount.
5. Next Round: Players can choose to play another round, often with the option to keep the same numbers or select new ones.

Table Layout and Equipment

Description of the Table

In online Keno, the 'table' is a virtual layout displayed on the player's screen. This layout predominantly features a digital Keno card, typically with numbers ranging from 1 to 80. The design is user-friendly, making it easy for players to select and submit their chosen numbers. 

The interface also includes essential buttons like 'play,' 'clear,' and options for setting the wager amount. 

Some versions of online Keno may also display a paytable, showing potential payouts for different numbers of matches.

Necessary Equipment

• Digital Keno Card: The primary component, displaying 80 numbers for players to choose from.
• Random Number Generator (RNG): Software that randomly selects the winning numbers in each draw, ensuring fair play.
• Virtual Chips: Used to place bets. The chip values can be adjusted according to the player's preference.

Player Actions and Choices

Players in online Keno have a straightforward set of actions:

1. Number Selection: Choose a set of numbers on the Keno card. The quantity of selectable numbers varies, but typically up to 10 or 15.
2. Deciding Bet Amount: Select how much to wager on the round. Some games offer multipliers that can increase the winnings but also the bet amount.
3. Playing Multiple Rounds: Opt for playing multiple games with the same numbers, often facilitated by a 'play 5' or 'play 10' option.

Dealer's Role and Rules

In the online Keno environment, there is no traditional dealer. Instead, the game operates under these automated processes:

1. Drawing Numbers: The RNG software takes the role of the dealer by randomly drawing the winning numbers for each round.
2. Enforcing Rules: The game follows a set of predetermined rules, such as the number of draws, the paytable structure, and the odds, which are encoded into the game's software.
3. Announcing Results: The outcomes of each draw are automatically displayed on the screen, with any matches highlighted on the player's Keno card.

Strategies and Tips for Players

Unlike games like blackjack, there isn't a 'strategy chart' for Keno because it's a game based mostly on chance. However, players can still approach the game with certain strategies in mind.

For Beginners

• Start with Small Bets: This helps you understand the game without risking too much money.
• Choose Fewer Numbers: While this reduces potential winnings, it also increases the likelihood of matching numbers.
• Play for Fun: Remember, Keno is a game of chance, so focus on enjoying the game rather than just winning.

For Advanced Players

• Consider Probabilities: Understand the odds of hitting different numbers of spots.
• Try Different Betting Patterns: Some players find enjoyment in trying out different number patterns, although it doesn’t necessarily increase winning chances.
• Bankroll Management: Set a budget for your gaming sessions to avoid overspending.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbetting: Don’t bet more than you can afford to lose.
• Chasing Losses: Avoid trying to win back what you've lost in previous rounds.
• Ignoring Game Variations: Each variation might have slightly different rules or odds, so it’s important to understand the specific game you’re playing.

Variations of the Game

There are several variations of Keno available in online casinos:

• Power Keno: Similar to traditional Keno but with a bonus feature where winnings are quadrupled if the 20th ball matches one of the player's choices.
• Super Keno: Players can win multiplied payouts if the first ball drawn matches one of their selected numbers.
• Combination Keno: Allows players to combine groups of numbers for different ways to win.

Differences Between Online and Live Keno

• Pace of Play: Online Keno is generally faster since you don’t have to wait for others to place bets or for manual draws.
• Convenience: Online Keno can be played from anywhere and at any time, unlike live Keno which requires being at a specific location.
• Game Varieties: Online casinos often offer a wider variety of Keno games than live casinos.
• Betting Options: Online Keno may have more flexible betting options, accommodating both low and high rollers.
• Interactivity: Live Keno can be more social with interaction among players, while online Keno is more individualistic.

Online Keno in casinos blends the traditional appeal of a lottery game with the convenience of online gaming. Its simplicity, coupled with the thrill of potentially large payouts, makes it a popular choice among casino enthusiasts. The game's format allows for quick and repeated play, making it a go-to for those seeking fast-paced gaming action.