Keno is a type of lottery similar to state lotteries common throughout North America. These games have a long tradition of success (at least from the perspective of the lotteries’ sponsors). Keno is no exception. Lotteries are unique in that, unlike many forms of gambling, they are not only state-sanctioned but they are often state-sponsored. It is likely that arguments over the propriety of state-run “gambling” have been going on for millennia. Augustus Caesar held the first recorded public lottery; his purpose was to raise funds to beautify the city of Rome.

As played in American casinos, Keno is the direct descendant of the Chinese Lottery. Keno uses a transparent plastic globe called the cage that contains small air-blown balls. This device is used to generate the random, winning numbers in Keno.