While there are many tried and true casino games that are likely to be played for eternity—such as poker and roulette – there are others that come and go such as live Keno. When looking at MGM’s casino properties —which are undoubtedly major players in the gaming world – they only have live Keno in their Excalibur property today.
The reason live Keno has faded is that most casinos believe that alternatives such as slot machines will generate more revenue. While generating revenue is paramount, casinos are missing out on a game many gamblers (social and professional) enjoy playing.
The key to successfully operating live Keno is marketing it well enough to ensure that gamblers know you have it. In fact, with so few casinos operating Keno, the ones who continue to offer it do quite well. However, casinos must also know their Keno audience. For example, 80% of Keno players do not smoke—so it will be the most successful in a non-smoking area. A challenge this presents is that it still needs to be in primary view so that those who stroll the casino know live Keno is an option.
Many casinos have well placed signs ensuring that gamblers know it is an option, as well as placing Keno boards throughout the casino so that tickets are easy to keep track of. Not just that, Keno should have a house percentage of between 60 to 85 percent. This is a large range, but is beneficial for both the casino and the gambler. It will ensure gamblers have a good time, without feeling robbed when the don’t win.
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