Vegas Q&A: How Does Video Keno Work?
UPDATED: 11:17 a.m. EDT May 19, 2003
Question: How does a video keno machine work? Is it set up to pay like a slot machine? I have had people tell me that when it is ready to hit it does not matter what numbers you have checked. Thank you.
Cheryl in San Antonio, Texas
Answer: I'm no expert on video keno, but as I understand it the background mechanics are virtually identical to a slot machine as it relates to the "random number generator."
The RNG is a computer chip that sits there and spits out numbers that relate to a win or a loss on the machine.
When you put a coin in a slot machine the RNG stops at a number, and that number relates to a table that determines whether you've won or lost. When you spin the reels, they merely show you what has already been determined by the RNG.
On a video keno game the concept is similar. When you select your numbers (no matter how many) and hit the start button, the RNG determines right then and there if you have won (and how much) or lost. The numbers it displays merely reflect your win or loss.
So in a way you are correct -- it doesn't matter what numbers you put in. That's unlike a video poker machine where your actions can determine an outcome -- if you don't hold the right cards, you may not get the winning combination. Your win or loss on a video keno machine is totally determined by the RNG, not your selection of numbers.
If you have a question you'd like to submit, click here.
Answer: I'm no expert on video keno, but as I understand it the background mechanics are virtually identical to a slot machine as it relates to the "random number generator."
The RNG is a computer chip that sits there and spits out numbers that relate to a win or a loss on the machine.
When you put a coin in a slot machine the RNG stops at a number, and that number relates to a table that determines whether you've won or lost. When you spin the reels, they merely show you what has already been determined by the RNG.
On a video keno game the concept is similar. When you select your numbers (no matter how many) and hit the start button, the RNG determines right then and there if you have won (and how much) or lost. The numbers it displays merely reflect your win or loss.
So in a way you are correct -- it doesn't matter what numbers you put in. That's unlike a video poker machine where your actions can determine an outcome -- if you don't hold the right cards, you may not get the winning combination. Your win or loss on a video keno machine is totally determined by the RNG, not your selection of numbers.
If you have a question you'd like to submit, click here.
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