In connection with the play of conventional keno games, both live keno games and mechanical or electronic keno gaming machines, the player is provided with the opportunity to win a "bad beat" bonus payout. The player uses a single keno ticket, and may be required to make an optional side bet wager to be eligible for the "bad beat" bonus payout or the player may be eligible simply by participating in the conventional keno game. If the player is "jackpot qualified" and the player plays at least five consecutive games of keno using the same keno ticket, the player wins a special payout.