Online Lottery Games: Best Online Games to Play in 2025
Find out about how lottery gambling works in the US in 2025, and some similar games that can be played online.
Many of us have purchased a lottery ticket, hoping for the day our Powerball numbers hit. But what if I told you that lottery gambling has become more than just a lucky ticket, with plenty of online games and instant win prizes available?
Whether you’re hoping for a jackpot win or looking to grab some instant entertainment, there’s a world of lottery-style gambling out there. This includes online scratchcards, instant win games, and everything in between.
Let's explore how lottery gambling works in the U.S., where to play legally, and the online games that offer a similar way of playing.
Traditional Lottery Gambling in the U.S.
Lottery gambling has existed in the United States since the 1930s, but the games have undergone numerous updates and modernizations since then. Currently, in the US, there are a few types of lottery games that can be played.
Multi-State and State Lotteries
As many keen players will know, two games dominate the lottery scene: Powerball and Mega Millions.
These lotteries operate across multiple states and regularly fill the headlines and social media feeds with stories of billion-dollar jackpots. Tickets are sold in 45 states, plus D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
In addition to multi-state games, some states run their own lotteries, such as New York Lotto, California SuperLotto Plus, and Texas Two Step. These games typically have smaller jackpots but better odds of winning.
Lottery Key Facts:
- Powerball draws are on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.
- Mega Millions draws are on Tuesdays and Fridays.
- Tickets usually cost $2.
- Available through retailers or online in certain states.
State-Run iLottery Platforms
Alongside their more traditional ticket-based games, several states also provide iLottery platforms, which are essentially state-operated lottery websites and apps. Players can select online lottery games, purchase draw tickets, and play instant-win games and Keno.
States with legal iLotteries include:
- Michigan Lottery
- Pennsylvania iLottery
- Virginia Lottery Online
- Georgia Lottery
- Illinois Lottery
What Games Can Be Played on iLottery Platforms?
As mentioned, in addition to playing the lottery itself, US gamblers can access a range of online games. These types of casino-esque games have proven to be extremely popular with US players, and many online casinos have created their own versions.
Games include
- Online Scratch Cards
Online scratch cards work in a similar way to paper scratchers, and provide the opportunity to potentially access an instant win! - Instant Win Games with Multipliers
Instant win games take a similar format to slots, and increase the gameplay speed for rapid results! These games have simple rules and mechanics, and offer a straightforward chance to win a prize. Many popular brands have hooked onto this trend and started to offer their own versions. - Online Keno
Only available in MI and PA, keno is a similar game to bingo, and is based around drawing numbered balls at random. Match the drawn numbers to your selection and you win!
These platforms are regulated, secure, and often offer bonuses for new players.
Lottery-Style Games at US Real Money Online Casinos
If you’re in a state with legal online casinos (like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, or West Virginia), you might already be aware of these games. Real money casinos like BetMGM Casino, Caesars Palace Online Casino, and FanDuel Casino have embraced lottery-style games to provide a selection to their players.
Online Scratch Cards and Instant Win Games
Online scratch cards and instant win games are the online version of regular games, except they’re faster, and offer themed games from candyland to outer space.
Top operators offering these games:
Play Instant Win Games at FanDuel Casino
Never one to shy away from latching onto the latest trend and putting their own unique spin on it, FanDuel Casino are fast becoming the one to watch for US online lottery-type games.
The majority of FanDuel instant win games and crash games are accessed via the 'Arcade' menu, but you can also find some titles dotted about the site and on FanDuel Casino's mobile app.
Instant Win:
LuckyTap Games:
Play Instant Win Games at BetMGM Casino
Arguably, BetMGM Casino leads the way in scratchers and instant win games, with a whole host of games available to play on their sites for NJ, MI, PA, and WV players.
Most games can be found on the BetMGM website and app through the 'Variety Games' menu. Tap this option and you'll unlock a bunch on instant entertainment. Our favorite games include:
Scratch Cards:
Instant Win:
LuckyTap Games:
Play Online Scratchcards to Win Real Money
Try these scratchers to see if your luck is in! These games are provided by our recommended online casinos, and you'll be linked to the best site for your location:
Online Keno and Bingo Variants
Keno has been a staple of bars and lounges across the US for decades, and now many sites provide a digital equivalent. At its heart, the game is the same: just choose your numbers, wait for the draw, and hope your picks hit.
Some games update every minute, giving you rapid-fire action, and there are many online variants of the traditional game. These spins on the classic keno game help to keep it fresh for players, as well as providing more bonus features such as multipliers and free draws.
You can find keno or bingo-style games at US online casinos such as the ones included below.
Play Keno at BetRivers Casino
Choose from a wide selection of online keno games and play for real money at BetRivers Casino! If you are based in PA, MI, NJ or WV, you can play keno games like Lightning Keno, Agent Thunder Keno , and Last Blast Keno.
Play Keno at PokerStars Casino
Like BetRivers, PokerStars also provides many instant win, scratchcard, and keno games for players in states with real money gaming. Pick of the bunch is Lighting Box Keno, from Light & Wonder. This game takes the classic keno format and superboosts it with features like the 'Lightning Respin' and jackpot prizes.
Why not try some online keno? Click to play at the best online casino for your location:
Pros and Cons of Playing Lottery-Style Games Online
If we've successfully whetted your appetite for lottery-like games, instant wins, and scratchcards, there are still some points to consider before you go ahead and play.
Pros
✅ Ultra convenient, either playing from home or on the go.
✅ Plenty of variety, from draw games to scratch cards to keno.
✅ Most sites have access to some form of game.
✅ Instant results available for the cost of a few cents.
Cons
❌ Results are entirely based on chance, with little strategy involved.
❌ Smaller payouts than traditional jackpot games (although this does vary).
❌ Not all games are available in all states.
❌ Instant play mechanics can lead to compulsive playing.
Never chase losses
Always set limits
Take regular breaks
Lottery-Style Online Games: The PokerNews Verdict
If the volume of tickets being purchased every week is any clue, lottery gambling in the U.S. is big business. And this counts double when online games are included.
From state-run iLotteries to scratch cards at online casinos and instant win games, US players now have more access and choice than ever before.
If you want to try your hand at instant win games or online scratchcards, there is a platform out there to suit your needs, including some of the very best US online casinos. Just play legally, safely, and responsibly, and you can't go far wrong!
Lottery-like Online Games FAQs
Can I buy Powerball or Mega Millions tickets online?
Yes, but only in certain states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Illinois, and Virginia through their official iLottery platforms.
What’s the best online casino for lottery-style games?
BetMGM and FanDuel Casino offer a solid mix of scratch cards and keno games in legal states like NJ, MI, and PA.
What is the difference between iLottery and online casino games?
iLottery is run by state governments and focuses on lottery draws and instant win tickets. Online casinos offer similar RNG-based games but include slots, table games, and live dealers.
Is it safe to play lottery games online?
Absolutely, providing you stick to licensed platforms. State-run lotteries, regulated casino apps, and gaming sites all have encryption, ID verification, and fair play policies to protect players.
What’s Slingo and how is it related to lottery games?
Slingo combines elements of bingo and slots. It’s a lottery-inspired game where you mark off numbers on a grid as slots spin and deliver matches.
Can I win real money playing instant win games?
Yes! Although the payouts on average are lower than those of casino games like slots and table games, you can win real money playing instant win games.
