Keno

Veikkaus Keno

Keno is a lottery-like gambling game often played at modern casinos, and also offered as a game by some lotteries. Players wager by choosing numbers ranging from 1 through (usually) 80. After all players make their wagers, 20 numbers (some variations draw fewer numbers) are drawn at random, either with a ball machine similar to those used for lotteries and bingo, or with a random number generator.

History

The origins of Keno can be traced back to ancient China, where it is said to have been invented during the Han Dynasty by Cheung Leung as a way to raise funds for the military. According to legend, the game's success helped to finance the construction of the Great Wall of China. The original Chinese game was more complex, involving 120 characters from a popular poem of the time, instead of numbers. As the game traveled to the West, it was simplified to 80 numbers and became known as Keno.

Gameplay

In a typical Keno game, players select numbers from a board that ranges from 1 to 80. The number of selections a player can make depends on the casino or lottery rules but is typically up to 10, 15, or 20 numbers. Players then place their bets on their selected numbers and wait for the drawing.

The payout in Keno depends on the number of matches between the player's selection and the drawn numbers, as well as the amount of the bet. The more numbers matched, the greater the payout. However, the odds of hitting all 20 numbers in a standard game are astronomically low.

Variations

There are several variations of Keno, including:

• Video Keno: Played on a machine that resembles a slot machine.
• Online Keno: Offered by many online casinos and lotteries, allowing players to play Keno without leaving home.
• Live Keno: Played in real-time, with live drawings at casinos or Keno lounges.

Odds and Strategy

The odds of winning in Keno vary significantly depending on the number of numbers chosen and the specific game rules. Because Keno is a game of chance, there is no strategy that can guarantee a win. However, some players may choose to play numbers that have not come up in a while, believing that they are "due" to appear, or they may stick to the same numbers every game, based on personal preference or superstition.

Popularity

Keno's simplicity and the possibility of winning large payouts on small bets have made it a popular game in casinos and among lottery players. Its history and evolution from ancient China to modern-day gaming establishments highlight its enduring appeal.