How to Play Keno (Vegas Style)
Keno is one of the simplest casino games in Las Vegas. It’s similar to a lottery: you choose numbers and hope they match the numbers drawn. Keno is slow-paced and often played in lounges, sports books, or on video terminals.
Keno is extremely easy to learn — but it also has one of the higher house edges in the casino.
1) Objective
Pick numbers (called "spots") and match as many as possible from the numbers drawn by the casino.
2) Basic Gameplay
| Step | What Happens |
|---|---|
| 1 | Choose how many numbers to play (usually 1–20 spots). |
| 2 | Select your numbers from 1 to 80. |
| 3 | Place your bet. |
| 4 | Casino draws 20 numbers. |
| 5 | You win based on how many of your numbers match. |
3) Example — Playing 4 Spots
If you select 4 numbers and:
| Matches | Typical Result |
|---|---|
| 4 of 4 | Large payout |
| 3 of 4 | Small payout |
| 2 of 4 | Often nothing (depends on paytable) |
| 0–1 | Lose |
Exact payouts vary depending on casino and bet level.
4) Live Keno vs Video Keno
| Live Keno | Video Keno |
|---|---|
| Numbers drawn every few minutes. | Instant electronic draws. |
| More social atmosphere. | Faster gameplay. |
| Slower bankroll drain. | Can lose money quickly due to speed. |
5) How Many Numbers Should You Pick?
There is no magic number selection strategy — draws are random. However:
- Fewer spots → Higher chance of hitting something small.
- More spots → Lower hit rate but larger potential payouts.
Keno outcomes are random. Past draws do not affect future draws.
6) Common Beginner Mistakes
- Believing certain numbers are “hot” or “due.”
- Playing too many consecutive fast rounds on video keno.
- Not checking paytables before betting.
- Chasing losses after near-misses.
Keno often has a higher house edge (20%+ in some versions).
Play for entertainment, not long-term profit.
7) Why People Play Keno
| Reason | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Very simple | No strategy required. |
| Low effort | Relaxed, lottery-style experience. |
| Potential big hit | High payout if all spots match. |
Responsible Gaming
Keno is designed as a high-variance lottery-style game. Set limits before playing and avoid rapid repetitive betting. Never chase losses.