Keno is a popular betting game that is played everywhere from British Bingo halls to sprawling American casinos, and the online version has taken off in a big way too. So, exactly what is Keno, where did it come from and how is it played? Here you’ll find all you need to know about this fun and unique game, so you too can get in on the action.
What is Keno?
Keno is a game that has become increasingly popular over the years, especially since online Keno was launched with the rise of online bingo and other casino games.
Keno is a simple betting game that involves minimal risk and maximum fun, plus it can be played anywhere. Similar to Bingo, the game involves a card with numbers on it (in Keno these run from 1-80, arranged in rows of 10 x 8 numbers), and an aerated machine filled with corresponding numbered balls.
Where Did Keno Originate?
The game is believed to have originated in the mid-19th Century, when it is believed to have been invented in the then-Portuguese colony of Macau.
The story goes that Keno sheets were delivered by carrier pigeon to outlying towns so that everyone could get involved in the game, earning Keno sheets the name of ‘white dove ticket’. Keno was introduced to the United States in the late 1800s and has been a mainstay of casinos there ever since.
How to Play Keno
Before the game commences, players must choose and mark on the card the numbers they want to come up, and select how much they want to bet. Bet sizes can vary from as little as £1 to as much as £20, but it all depends on the establishment you’re playing at.
Players usually choose 20 numbers (although this number is lower in some establishments). Online versions of the Keno lottery game usually give you the option to automatically generate a set of numbers.
When a numbered ball is drawn, the player must mark that number on their card. The aim of the game is to have all your numbers drawn from the ball machine and win the top cash prize.
The base version of Keno is the same wherever you play it, but there are lots of variations and extra features to add some excitement to gameplay. For example, ‘Way’ tickets reward you for scoring certain combinations on your Keno card, while ‘King’ tickets have one pre-selected number that will reward you more than any other.
Bonuses are also often featured, sometimes called a ‘Bull’s Eye’ or a ‘Booster’ – bet on the Bonus number (which will cost you a little more) and if that number is drawn, you’ll win big.
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