Big changes are coming to the Mega Millions lottery, promising larger prizes and an enhanced experience for players.
Starting April 5, the cost of a Mega Millions ticket will increase to $5, introducing several upgrades aimed at boosting excitement and winnings. While some players may have concerns about the price hike, the new features are designed to provide more opportunities to win big.
The revamped Mega Millions game will feature a starting jackpot of $50 million, ensuring that even the initial prize pool is larger than before. In addition to the increased starting jackpot, players will benefit from bigger prizes at all levels. These enhancements are part of a broader strategy to deliver more value and excitement with every drawing.
And it's only coincidence that one of the biggest Mega Millions jackpots in history was just paid out, while another record-setting jackpot was claimed in December.
Multiplier Will Be Built Into Every Game
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of a built-in multiplier in every Mega Millions game.
Previously, players had the option to purchase the "Megaplier" for an additional fee, which increased non-jackpot prizes. Now, the multiplier will be automatically included in every play, multiplying winnings by two, three, four, five, or even ten times.
With this change, no separate Megaplier number will be drawn, as each ticket will come with its own multiplier.
Along with the new pricing structure and the inclusion of the Megaplier in all tickets, the 'Just the Jackpot' feature will be retired. This decision reflects Mega Millions' focus on simplifying the game’s offerings and enhancing the prize structure for all players.
A Subtle Shift in Mega Millions Odds
In addition to larger prizes, players will also notice improved odds. The overall odds of winning any prize improve to 1 in 23 (from 1 in 24) by removing one gold Mega Ball. Jackpot odds improve to 1 in 290,472,336 (from 1 in 302,575,350) with 24 Mega Balls instead of 25.
Here's a breakdown of the changes players can look forward to:
Faster-Growing Jackpots:
- Jackpots are expected to grow faster and reach higher amounts more frequently.
- Average jackpot win anticipated to be over $800 million (up from $450 million).
Automatic Prize Multipliers:
- Non-jackpot wins automatically multiply by 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X, or 10X.
- Prize range increases to $10 to $10 million (from $2 to $1 million).
Minimum Prize Guarantee:
- Winning tickets will pay out a minimum of $10, doubling the $5 ticket price. Previously, the minimum prize was $2, matching the ticket cost.
Joshua Johnston, lead director of the Mega Millions Consortium, shared in a news release that these enhancements are designed to offer players higher payouts, better odds, and a more thrilling Mega Millions experience.
'Players who had won $2 in the old game will now take home $10, $15, $20, $25, or $50 under the new system. Those who had won $500 under the old rules will now take home $1,000, $1,500, $2,000, $2,500, or $5,000 in the new game,' he said.
Mega Millions Price Increase Prompts Player Reactions
The announcement of these changes has sparked a range of responses from players. While some appreciate the opportunity for bigger wins, others have expressed reluctance about the higher ticket price. Online forums, such as Reddit, host discussions where players question the value of a $5 ticket.
One user commented, 'A $1 or $2 purchase can be justified every so often. At $5, it's going to stop a lot of people from buying.' Another player expressed doubt, asking, 'Who's going to want to throw $5 away for one ticket?'
Mega Millions officials have emphasized that this price increase is only the second in the game’s history, underlining the enhanced experience and value the new $5 ticket offers.
New Mega Millions Game Begins April 5
April 4 marks the final drawing of the current version of Mega Millions. Sales for the new $5 game will begin the following morning, setting the stage for its first drawing on April 8. As the lottery continues to hold draws twice a week on Tuesdays and Fridays, the Mega Millions Consortium promises an exciting new era ahead.
“Beyond big jackpots, players told us they want bigger non-jackpot prizes, and that's exactly what this new game delivers… That's the kind of value the new Mega Millions will deliver to our players at every single drawing,” Johnston said.
In some states, if you hit a Mega Millions jackpot, it comes tax free. Depending on your state, you might keep a bit more of your winnings because some states don’t tax lottery prizes. This means you could save an extra 3% to 10%.
Try Slingo or Online Bingo as Alternatives
While some may be hesitant to embrace the new changes, others are eagerly anticipating the expanded opportunities for winning big.
If you're the former, you could try Slingo. It combines elements of bingo and a five-reel slot machine. You play on a 5x5 grid, which resembles a bingo card. Below this grid, you'll find five reels, with each reel showing just one visible space. You can try a version at Chumba Casino or WOW Vegas.
