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Keno Patterns Explained: Strategy and Chance

Keno Patterns Explained: Balancing Strategy and Chance

16 June 2025 - 3 min read

WHAT ARE KENO PATTERNS?

WHAT ARE KENO PATTERNS?

Keno patterns refer to the practice of selecting numbers in specific visual arrangements—like lines, shapes or clusters—with the belief that these formations may improve your chances of winning. It’s an idea that persists despite the reality that keno is entirely a game of chance. So why do so many players still put faith in number patterns?

THE ILLUSION OF CONTROL IN KENO

Humans are naturally wired to seek structure in chaos. This psychological trait—known as pareidolia—explains why we often see meaning in randomness. In a game like keno, which relies entirely on randomly drawn numbers, this tendency can trick us into thinking that certain patterns carry special significance.

Suddenly, drawing numbers in a square or diagonal line makes the experience feel more organised. It may not influence the result, but it satisfies our brain's need for logic and control—even if it’s an illusion.

WHY PEOPLE BELIEVE IN PATTERNS: ANECDOTAL EVIDENCE

Most people don't share stories about losing a couple of dollars on keno in Australia. But when someone hits a massive win—especially those rare multi-million-dollar jackpots—it becomes a headline. And when those winners mention that they chose numbers based on birthdays or lucky shapes, it plants a seed: What if that strategy could work for me too?

It’s this kind of anecdotal “evidence” that keeps keno pattern strategies alive. Even if players know deep down it’s all chance, it adds a personal touch that makes the game more enjoyable.

Even though patterns won’t increase your odds, they can enhance your enjoyment. Whether it’s for superstition, habit or fun, here are some of the most commonly used keno patterns in Australia.

1. STRAIGHT LINE PATTERNS

A classic approach: pick numbers that form a line—horizontally, vertically, or diagonally—on the keno grid. It’s simple, easy to remember, and often used by players who like structure or convenience in their selection.

2. GEOMETRIC SHAPES

Squares, triangles, and rectangles have long held appeal in keno. Some players enjoy the visual symmetry, while others cling to the hope that these organised formations somehow hold luck. There's no scientific backing, of course, but that doesn't stop many from trying.

3. BIRTHDAYS AND MEANINGFUL DATES

Choosing numbers based on birthdays, anniversaries, or other significant dates is another popular pattern. It’s not necessarily a strategy for increasing wins, but it makes the game feel more personal. And when a familiar date hits, it feels that much more rewarding.

4. HOT AND COLD NUMBERS

Some players like to analyse the history of past keno draws to identify “hot” and “cold” numbers. Hot numbers are those that have appeared frequently, while cold numbers haven’t come up in a while. While this can be fun to track, it's important to remember that each keno draw is independent—previous results don’t influence future outcomes.

DO ANY PATTERNS PERFORM BETTER THAN OTHERS?

Short answer: no. Since keno results are completely random, no pattern has a statistical edge. Every draw is independent, and all number combinations have the same chance of being selected.

However, some players feel more confident when they stick with one pattern over time. That confidence can make the experience feel more positive—even if the actual results aren’t any better. In this way, a pattern can act more like a ritual than a strategy, adding enjoyment without influencing the outcome.

THE PSYCHOLOGY BEHIND KENO PATTERNS

Beyond pareidolia, there's another concept at play: the gambler’s fallacy. This is the mistaken belief that past events influence future ones in random games. For example, a player might think, “7 hasn’t come up in a while—it must be due!” Or that a certain shape worked last time, so it will work again.

Understanding this can help you play more mindfully. Enjoy the game for what it is—a fun, luck-based experience—and avoid falling into the trap of expecting patterns to “pay off.”

SHOULD YOU SWITCH UP YOUR PATTERN?

Some players stick with the same set of numbers for years. Others like to change it up with each draw. There’s no right or wrong approach—it all comes down to personal preference.

If you’re not enjoying your current picks or you find yourself getting bored, try switching to a new pattern or shape. You might not win more, but refreshing your routine can keep the game exciting.

ARE KENO PATTERNS DIFFERENT ONLINE VS IN-VENUE?

Whether you're playing at a pub, club or live keno online, the concept of keno patterns remains the same. The difference is in the user experience. Online keno often gives you a grid-based interface, which makes drawing lines and shapes much easier.

Some online platforms even save your number selections, making it simpler to repeat or experiment with patterns. If you’re someone who enjoys tinkering with patterns, online play might offer more flexibility and speed.

Some players will attribute their success in keno to the keno pattern that they used for that particular game. The truth is that their fortune is almost certainly down to luck rather than them being a keno strategy savant! It is also important to remember that keno results are often the result of an algorithm, designed to be completely random. This differs from betting on a sport like MMA, where individual knowledge could help shape a successful betting strategy.

However, that is not to say you shouldn’t use keno patterns. If playing with shapes, special dates, or hot and cold numbers increases your enjoyment of the game, then go for it. Whether you’re chasing a $40 million keno jackpot or just having a cheeky go on a lunch break, having fun is the reason we’re all here, right?

PLAY WITH PURPOSE, NOT PRESSURE

At the end of the day, keno is about entertainment. Patterns may not improve your odds, but they can help personalise your experience and add structure to your number picks. Whether you draw a cross, a square, or your child’s birthday, the key is to play for fun—not for fortune.

Set a budget, enjoy the ride, and if your pattern lands a win, consider it a lucky bonus—not a proven formula.