Online scratch-off games, also known as digital instant win games, have become increasingly popular over the last decade. As lottery operators seek to stay relevant in the digital age, they have turned to the internet and mobile apps to offer scratch-off style games to tech-savvy customers.
In 2021, over $92 billion was spent globally on online lottery games. Digital scratch-offs represent a fast-growing segment, with many lottery operators now deriving 20-30% of sales from online channels. The convenience, accessibility and variety of games available at Kansino are all factors driving this growth.
Understanding Online Scratch Card Mechanics
While the look and feel of online scratch-off tickets aim to mimic physical instant win games, the underlying mechanics differ given their digital nature. Rather than scratching away a latex coating, players typically click an icon or button to reveal symbols, numbers or prize amounts.
Prize amounts and odds of winning are determined randomly by algorithms at the point of purchase. Games may have set prize pools or select winners in real-time from predefined odds. This gives players an equal chance at prizes, including top prizes, which can reach millions of dollars.
Most online lotteries offer progressives where top prizes increase the more a game is played across all players. Games also feature a variety of price points, themes and ways to win.
Availability Across Lottery Markets
The availability of online instant win games varies across lottery jurisdictions. Currently, these games are offered by lottery operators in:
| Country/State | Lottery Operator |
| Michigan | Michigan Lottery |
| Kentucky | Kentucky Lottery |
| Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania Lottery |
| North Carolina | North Carolina Education Lottery |
Other states like California, Texas and New York have introduced legislation over the past two years seeking to allow online lottery sales. The trend towards offering digital scratch-off games across lottery markets is expected to continue rising.
Popular Online Scratchers Themes
Online scratch-off games today feature a wide variety of themes and licenses designed to attract different demographics. Popular themes include:
- Casino Games – These visa kasinot games feature visual themes modeled after popular casino games like slots, bingo, roulette and video poker. Prizes often mimic casino payouts, with top prizes ranging from $50,000 to $500,000.
- Lottery Classics – Digital versions of classic scratch-off ticket styles, including fan favorite games like Crosswords, Bingo and Match 3. These games offer better odds and starting prices as low as $0.01.
- Licensed Brands – Games featuring brands from entertainment, sports, music and pop culture. Licensed games appeal to younger demographics with prizes like concert tickets or merchandise.
As online scratchers continue gaining traction, we can expect more creativity and innovation around themes and game designs. Lottery operators now have the flexibility to refresh content regularly based on player analytics.
Scratch-Off Analytics and Game Optimization
As online lottery games continue to grow, data analytics become crucial for operators. Granular sales data on digital scratch-off performance can inform key decisions around game design, prizing strategies and marketing. Players leave enormous digital footprints with every game interaction.
By leveraging analytics, operators can identify their highest revenue generating themes and games. Games can be refreshed rapidly based on performance. Prizes can also be adjusted dynamically, allocating higher top prizes to the most popular games. This level of data and optimization is simply not possible with printed instant tickets.
As online scratchers sales proliferate, we can expect further innovation and specialization driven by data analytics. The end result for players are games that are more tailored and rewarding. For operators, digital games present a growth channel that can complement their traditional draw games and scratcher portfolio.