Lottery Game Types: Instant Games
Lottery games come in several different flavors. Almost anyone in the world today is more or less familiar with a lottery game type or two. Lotto -- as most people already know -- is the current and long running world champ in terms of popularity. Solidly behind lotto are Little Lotto, the Dailies, and Instant Games. This article covers Instant Games, a popular and well received lottery game in the US and other countries.
Instant Games have almost nothing in common with lotto. Commonly called "scratch off" games, Instant Games can be played anytime -- no waiting for draw dates here. Scratch offs are widely available in a number of different establishments; such as convenience stores, gas stations, supermarkets, and the like.
Instant Games are popular because of several reasons. This is the game for people who don't like waiting for specific draw dates -- they can try their luck anytime of the day, any day of the week. Also, new games are introduced in frequent occasions.
For example, the state of Michigan releases new scratch off games almost once per week. This makes the games fresh and varied. Another reason is that players don't have to concern themselves with number picking or filling out and marking play slips. All they need to do is simply scratch off the spaces.
Instant Games come in many different forms, most of which are colorful and fun to play. Some become instant hits, while others never click. For those games that didn't quite go off, these are discontinued, although some may make another appearance several months or even years later. For the more popular games, these are kept in circulation for an extended period.
Some examples of scratch off games that have made an appearance are; Monopoly, Win for Life, Heat Wave, Stocking Stuffer, and Holiday Cash. As can be seen in the second half of the examples mentioned, some games are released on holidays.
The prizes for Instant Games winners wildly vary. Jackpots -- except for some rare instances -- never reach the same heights as those of Lotto jackpots. Even if a player doesn't win the jackpot, there is still a chance to rake in much smaller cash prizes. These consolation prizes range from $1 to $50.
There are slight differences in the objectives and play mechanics for the numerous Instant Games in circulation. For example, a typical game such as Ducks in a Row (played in Michigan) requires players to scratch off the spaces and match three similar duck symbols in a vertical, horizontal or diagonal position to win. The prize amount is dependent upon the amount designated inside the prize box.