Online Keno: Comprehensive Guide to Playing Keno Online

Keno as a Casino Game – Introduction and History

Keno is a lottery-style game similar to bingo, which you can play at online casinos in India. The biggest difference between the two is that in keno, players choose their numbers. Once they make a selection, players must wait to see if their numbers match the ones drawn by the computer.

Keno is less prevalent in India than other forms of entertainment, like slots or table games. However, it has gained some popularity, mainly thanks to online casinos introducing keno to a broader audience. Hence, you can expect to find multiple game variants at the best Indian online casinos, like the ones we recommend.

The game’s ancient roots and straightforward rules make it loved by experienced gamblers and newbies.

The game has quite ancient origins, and its history includes several intriguing theories. Let’s explore keno’s origins and uncover the fascinating ways the game is thought to have been used thousands of years ago.

The History of Keno

According to OCNJ Daily, the basic theory is that Keno originated in ancient China. It was invented around 200 B.C. by Cheung Leung, the emperor of the Han Dynasty. According to a legend, Cheung created the game to fund a tough war for his dynasty and save his city from poverty.

The game’s popularity was so great that it is said to have contributed to financing the construction of the Great Wall of China.

According to Britannica, keno was initially known as beige piao or pai-ko piano, which translates to “white pigeon ticket.” Having gained popularity quickly, it spread to various regions of China and later to other parts of the world.

As Britannica states, the emergence of the railroads in the 19th century helped the game spread to the United States. It was brought there by Chinese immigrants and quickly grabbed the attention of locals. Before acquiring its current name, keno was known as the “Chinese lottery”.

DID YOU KNOW... ?

The term “keno” is derived from French or Latin, with “quine” in French, meaning five numbers and “quini” in Latin, meaning by five. This suggests that the name of the game is not directly related to its origins.

How Are Numbers Generated in Keno Online?

In online keno games, numbers are generated by specialised software that uses a random number generation algorithm known as the RNG (Random Number Generator).

Each time keno online is played, the RNG produces a new set of numbers. The algorithm runs constantly, generating thousands of numbers per second. When players hit the Play button, the generator "freezes" and selects the last numbers that were generated at that moment.

The idea behind this is to ensure that each result is completely random and that players cannot predict or manipulate which set of numbers will be drawn.

All online casinos that are regulated and licensed by the relevant authorities use tested and certified RNG software to ensure fairness and transparency of keno games.

How to Play Keno Online - Game Rules

To play keno, you need to purchase a ticket at an online casino you registered with. Then, choose up to 20 numbers from a range of 80 and hope that the numbers you’ve picked come up in the draw. The more, the better.

At online casinos in India, keno tickets are readily available. All you need to do is choose your bet per number and mark the ones you want to bet on. Some online keno games also let you use the automatic pick feature that selects random numbers for you.

When you confirm your bet, the winning numbers from the draw will be displayed above your ticket. The Random Number Generator (RNG) stops and determines 20 winning numbers. The more matching numbers, the higher the payout.

Online keno games use different themes, with tables and tickets matching the style of the specific game. For example, you can come across keno variants inspired by Ancient Egypt, jungle wildlife, holidays, sports and more.

When you play online keno, your results are announced immediately. In live keno, winning numbers are presented in a more captivating way thanks to the live dealer adding an element of suspense, drawing them one by one.

Online keno comes in multiple variations, providing players with more options. Some game variants offer bonus features, such as multipliers, progressive jackpots and special bonus rounds that increase potential winnings.

It is important to note that to play keno successfully, you must understand the rules and manage your budget well. While the game is primarily luck-based, betting wisely and choosing the right strategy can significantly enhance your chances of winning.

Online casinos in India offer the convenience of playing keno anywhere and at any time, making it accessible and attractive to a wide range of players.

DID YOU KNOW... ?

There are a total of over 3 trillion possible combinations when drawing 20 of 80 numbered keno balls.

To help you learn how to play keno, we have prepared detailed instructions for the game Keno Deluxe on Megapari.com. Even if you have no previous knowledge of the subject, we are confident that after reading these few lines, you’ll be able to play keno without worries and doubts.

In the examples below, we have used the word "ticket". This term refers to the table the game provides you with. Before the advent of online casinos, numbers were selected on similar cards or tickets, so we use this traditional designation to help you understand the rules.

How to Play Keno Explained Step by Step

To play keno at an online casino, you need to choose the game and decide how many numbers you want to bet on. Then, you must place your bet, get lucky in the draw and withdraw your winnings. In the following lines, we will go through the steps in more detail to make it as easy as possible for you to play keno online.

• Step 1 - Game Selection: Choose a keno game at the online casino that suits your preferences. Take a look at the themed keno games and choose the one you like best. Different variations may offer different betting options and bonuses.
• Step 2 - Bet: Determine how much you want to bet on your chosen numbers. Bets vary depending on the specifics of the game. For example, in Keno Deluxe at Megapari, you pick the total bet, with the maximum capped at ₹1,000, while other games let you wager smaller or larger max bets.

Most online keno games today also offer the Quick Pick feature that automatically selects a preferred number of random numbers. This can be useful if you want faster gameplay or if you're just superstitious.

• Step 3 - Drawing Numbers: Before you push the Play button, you must pick your numbers manually or let the Quick Pick feature do it for you. In both cases, in Keno Deluxe, 15 random numbers will be drawn. The more numbers match the ones you have chosen, the bigger your winnings will be.

• Step 4 - Payout: Your winnings in Keno Deluxe will be determined based on the number of matching numbers, the size of your bet and the number of numbers you bet on. Each keno game has a payout table that shows how much you can win for the selection you make and the total of matching numbers.

If a sufficient number of numbers match those drawn in the game, the winnings will be added to your account. You can withdraw them at your convenience. Winning numbers and the ones you’ve picked are visible on the ticket, so you can follow the game without any difficulties.

• Step 5 - Check out the other keno variants: Online keno comes in different variants, offering various rules and bonus features. Some of them have multipliers, progressive jackpots, and special bonus levels that can increase potential winnings.

If you follow these steps, you'll be able to play keno online without worry or doubt, enjoying every minute of the game.

Note: Although it may seem appealing to choose more numbers for a greater chance of winning, keep in mind that this is not exactly the case. The more numbers you bet on, the more modest your winnings will be unless you match more numbers.

For example, in Keno Deluxe, if you bet on 5 numbers and guess them, you will win a 25x higher payout than with the same number of matching numbers when betting on 15 numbers. It's best to experiment with different strategies to find the one that works best for you and fits your budget.

How and Where to Play Free Online Keno

You can play keno for free at Megapari, Lopebet, Bettilt, Parimatch and Lucky Niki. You do not even have to register to play keno in demo mode on these platforms. Just find the title you like and click on Free Play/Demo to play keno with no real money required.

The main advantage of playing free keno is that involves no risk. Therefore, you have an opportunity to get familiar with the rules of the game, come up with a strategy that works best for you and try out the various keno variants available on the different platforms we have listed.

Types of Keno Games You Can Play Online

When talking about online keno, it is important to note that there are three main game formats. They include virtual (RNG) keno, live keno and online keno slots. In the following lines, we will discuss the key differences between these formats and why you should try them out.

Virtual Keno

Virtual keno is the most common game format at Indian online casinos. You play against the computer, with the Random Number Generator drawing numbers. This format is similar to a slot game, where outcomes are also determined by the RNG.

One of the main advantages of virtual keno is that it can be played at your own pace. Also, you are usually more likely to come across casino bonuses you can use to play RNG keno, which means more time to play and more chances of winning.

Virtual keno games support a wide betting range, with minimums and maximums depending on the game and the casino. Max stakes can go to hundreds of rupees per draw.

In some RNG keno titles, you can play with more than one ticket at a time. In some cases, you can play with up to 4 tickets simultaneously, which means more opportunities to win on each draw. Yet, keep in mind that each ticket requires a bet, so you need to wager more money at once. Super Keno and Power Keno are good examples of virtual keno games.

Live Keno

Live keno gives you the opportunity to play in real time, with the game streamed directly from a studio. In this game format, the numbers are drawn by a real person, usually a professional dealer, which adds an extra layer of authenticity and excitement.

These keno games also support a wide betting range, with minimums and maximums typically higher when compared to those at virtual keno.

To try your luck at live keno, you must wager real money. The best Indian online casinos we recommend offer several live keno games from TVBET, including Fast Keno and Fashion TV Keno.

Online Keno Slots

As their name suggests, online keno slots are a mix between RNG keno and slots. What makes these keno games different from the rest is that they use a variety of themes and special symbols while offering potentially big payouts. Examples of such games are Dragon's Charm Kenooo, Jelly Kenooo and Mystery of Ra Kenooo. All of these titles come from 7777 Gaming and you can play them at Rajabets Casino.

Each of these games sports a certain theme, such as Egyptian, sweets or dragons. On their grids, you can find symbols and numbers. Also, they are operated by the RNG. When the Start button is pressed, special symbols appear and scatter across the grid to form winning combinations of numbers.

Online keno slots provide more interesting gameplay thanks to various extras. However, what seems like an advantage to some players might be off-putting for others. Especially those who prefer traditional keno for its straightforwardness. In these titles, stakes range from ₹20 to ₹10,000 per round.

The potential payouts are large, with Mystery of Ra Kenooo awarding up to ₹100 million per round.

Types of Bets in Online Keno

Online keno offers four types of basic bets. These include straight bets, odd/even number bets, top/bottom bets, and combination bets.

It is essential to get familiar of different betting options to make the most of playing keno online. For this reason, we have prepared an easy-to-understand description of the different types of keno bets.

Straight Bets in Keno

This is the basic and most popular betting option in keno. You simply choose between 1 and 20 numbers, depending on the game you play, from a range of 1 to 80. How much you can win with a straight bet depends on how many numbers you have picked and how many of them match the drawn numbers. Your payout will be based on the paytable for the game you play. For example, a straight bet on 5 numbers with all 5 numbers coming up can earn you up to 1,000x in some games.

Even/Odd Keno Bets

With an even or odd keno bet, the player guesses whether the drawn numbers will be predominantly even or odd. So, instead of trying to predict specific numbers, you simply guess whether there will be more odd or even numbers.

Top/Bottom Keno Bets

This is a variation of the odd/even bet. Instead of guessing whether odd or even numbers will be predominant, you predict whether the majority of numbers will be drawn from the top half (41 to 80) or the bottom half (1 to 40). Predicting specific numbers is not required, which some players find easier.

Combination Bets in Keno

With combination bets in keno, you can mix different groups of numbers in one bet. So, instead of choosing just one group of numbers, you can choose several groups and bet that at least one of them will be drawn.

Let’s look at an example:

• You bet on 3 groups, with one containing the numbers 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, the second containing 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, and the third including 50, 55, 60, 65, 70. Within a single draw, you can catch winning numbers from each group and get paid for them.

It’s easy to see that combination bets can enhance your odds of winning. Yet, bear in mind that they pay smaller payouts. To win big with such bets, you need to hit one or two entire groups of numbers, and the chance of doing so is slim, to say the least.

Keno Jackpots - What Are They and How to Win

Keno jackpots in India are progressive and can be found in games powered by Amusnet. In India, you can enjoy them at Lopebet Casino.

Like slots from the same provider, keno titles by Amusnet offer the Jackpot Cards feature where four jackpots are hidden. The feature is randomly triggered while playing games like Hot Beno and Burning Keno.

Once the Jackpot Cards feature is activated, the player is presented with 12 face-down cards they must pick from until 3 of a kind are revealed. Each suit represents a jackpot level, with the spade awarding the top prize. At the time of writing this article, the amounts on offer for the different levels are:

• Clubs: ₹49,000+
• Diamonds: ₹46,800+
• Hearts: ₹3,600,000+
• Spades: ₹343,700,000+.

The progressive jackpots increase with every bet placed by all players until the luckiest players win them.

Amusnet keno titles with progressive jackpots are available at Lopebet Casino.

What is the House Edge in Keno Online?

The house edge of online keno games can vary greatly depending on the specific rules and the number of numbers the player selects. Still, in general, the house edge in keno can be between 25% and 30%. This is quite high compared to many other casino games.

For example, in blackjack, where the player applies the optimal strategy, the house edge can drop to 0.5%. In Baccarat, the house edge hovers around 1.5% for player and banker bets, which is again significantly lower than in keno.

Why is this so? The main reason is that keno is a game of pure chance. So, no skill is required, and your decisions can’t affect the outcome. This is part of the appeal of keno for many people, but it also means that the house edge is higher.

The house edge, also known as the house advantage, is the key aspect of any gambling experience players must understand. At the heart of the definition, it is the percentage that the casino is expected to earn on each bet in the long run.

DID YOU KNOW... ?

The history of keno is closely tied to the development of gambling in the United States? In 1931, the Nevada Gambling Act legalised the game under the name Race-Horse Keno. To avoid being banned from lotteries, casino owners associated the numbers from the game with horses' names, turning the draws into "races". After a change in legislation, the name was shortened to "keno". The first legalized games were held in Nevada in 1936, initially played at the Palace Club in Reno and later in Vegas.

What Are Payouts in Keno?

Keno payouts vary depending on how many numbers the player has selected, and how many of those numbers have been drawn. Typically, more numbers mean more opportunities to win, but it is also less likely that all of those numbers will be drawn.

Here is an example of potential keno payouts based on a total of 10 numbers selected:

• If you guess 0 numbers: 5 to 1
• If you guess 1 number: 1 to 1
• If you guess 2 numbers: 2 to 1
• If you guess 3 numbers: 3 to 1
• If you guess 4 numbers: 4 to 1
• If you guess 5 numbers: 50 to 1
• If you guess 6 numbers: 75 to 1
• If you guess 7 numbers: 100 to 1
• If you guess 8 numbers: 500 to 1
• If you guess 9 numbers: 1,000 to 1
• If you guess 10 numbers: 5,000 to 1

These payouts are approximate and may vary from casino to casino and for * different keno variants.** It's always a good idea to check the rules and payouts of a particular keno game before you start playing.

Practical Tips for Playing Keno Online

Our casino experts have prepared tips for playing keno online. They’ll help you learn the game rules, how to set win limits, why not chase losses, and how to have fun while playing keno at licensed casinos.

Keno can offer a lot of fun, but, like all online casino games, if you don't play with common sense and follow the advice of professionals, you can find yourself in unpleasant situations. Our goal is to protect you from such problems.

By following these practical tips, you will be able to enjoy a fulfilling casino experience while playing keno online.

Make Sure You Are Familiar with the Game Rules

Before you start playing keno, you should learn the rules the chosen variant uses, what types of bets it offers and what strategies can help you win at it. The easiest way to do this is by trying the preferred keno title for free. This may sound obvious, but many players start playing casino games without a full understanding of how they work.

Set Win Limits

Setting win limits when playing keno online can help you manage your finances more efficiently. This way, you can limit potential losses by walking away when you reach the limit you have set.

Never Chase Losses

If you are unlucky at online keno, be disciplined and don't try to regain the lost funds by increasing your bets. This often leads to even bigger losses.

Play for Fun, Not to Get Rich

Casino games, including keno, should be seen as an entertaining pastime, not as a means to get rich. Hence, you should always play with money you can afford to lose and do not invest more than that. Otherwise, your financial and mental health can suffer.

Always Choose Licensed Casinos for Your Entertainment

To protect yourself and your resources, always choose online casinos licensed by trustworthy authorities. These licences guarantee a fair and safe gaming experience in a vast market where not all casino sites are equally reliable.

Although India doesn’t have a local regulator to issue them, you can always pick an offshore casino with a valid licence. For instance, one of those we recommend. That can help you stay out of trouble.

Pros and Cons of Online Keno

When it comes to entertainment, every casino game, including online keno, has a unique set of benefits and challenges to consider. By understanding the pros and cons of keno, you'll be able to determine if the casino game, with its distinct dynamics, quirks and features, is right for you.

Let's examine the main advantages and disadvantages of playing keno online:

Our Final Thoughts About Keno

Keno is a lottery-like casino game that has been around since ancient times and continues to be a favourite choice of many players today. The game combines the simplicity of the lottery with the dynamics of bingo and can deliver exceptional winnings.

Online versions of keno offer added convenience and flexibility. Yet, they have their share of disadvantages too.

We hope that the information and tips we have shared will help you learn the rules of keno, understand the different types of bets and play it with more confidence. Remember, though, that keno is a game of chance. Although you can improve your odds through different bets and knowledge, the casino will always have the edge.

If you're new to keno, we highly recommend starting with the RNG version of the game in demo mode, which can be found at the best online casinos India. Virtual keno typically has lower minimum bets, and you can play it at your own pace.

Playing keno can be exciting and fun. However, to enjoy it fully, you must play responsibly. Remember that, when it comes to gambling, the stakes can be high, so never risk more than you can afford to lose. Most importantly, whatever your reasons for playing may be, always have fun!