It may not generally be considered the sexiest game in the world of gambling, but keno has millions of devoted enthusiasts. And why not? Its a consistently thrilling lottery-style game thats easy to learn, readily available in a number of different formats, and one that can yield mega-dollars for those who master its many subtle intricacies. But lets deal with the basics here.

When describing keno to beginners, some gambling experts compare it to bingo. This is at least partially apt, in that both games are essentially numerical. Yet to take that comparison too far would be to underestimate the many unique traits that make keno so compelling. Unlike bingo, keno players have the freedom to choose the numbers for each card.

Keno cards have a total of 80 numbers, but the player is granted an addition level of personal responsibility by being able to choose as many (or as few) numbers as he or she desires. And it doesnt take a nuclear physicist to figure out 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 back in school (assuming you were born before the computer age. If this is the case, fear not. Keno does not discriminate against old farts.)

Once youve selected your numbers, carry the card back to the clerk at the keno booth. The clerk will record those numbers and then hand you a receipt. Dont lose this (potentially) valuable piece of paper! Even if the clerk remembers your face and would like to help out, without a winning receipt in hand you will collect precisely $.00 for your efforts.

OK, so there you have strategy #1: always be sure to keep your keno receipt. Lets move on to something a bit more complex, shall we?

Once youve picked your numbers, settle into a comfy keno booth and watch the action unfold on big a video monitor. Thats where the winning numbers show up in lights. If youve got winners, mark your card accordingly. Be sure not to dally, or sit there congratulating yourself for an obnoxious length of time. You need to get back to the keno booth to redeem your winnings, as a new drawing will probably start within five minutes.

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

Assuming you dont trust yourself to beat that five-minute margin every time, you always retain the option of purchasing a "multi-race" ticket. These include the same set of your chosen numbers on anywhere from 2 to 20 tickets. When the maximum number of games (matching the number of tickets) is finished, you can then get off your lazy butt and go redeem your winnings.

Yet an additional option is known as a "stray and play" ticket, which usually lets you make number choices for 30 games or more. Heck, you can take an ocean cruise and not have to worry about getting back to port in time to redeem your numbers. Most "stray and play" tickets are good for up to a whole year after purchase!

So now you know a few essential strategies for winning keno. If you are an experienced player, they may seem stupidly obvious. But it never hurts to brush up on the fundaments, and if you are a new player, every bit of information will help make your keno experience more enjoyable.