**Lottery Revamp: Bigger Prizes, Higher Ticket Prices Ahead**
In a major overhaul, Mega Millions is set to introduce significant changes to its gameplay, including a ticket price hike from $2 to $5 starting April 2025. This marks only the second price increase in the lottery’s 28-year history, since its inception as The Big Game in 1996.
The revamped lottery promises more frequent and substantial prizes, along with marginally improved winning odds. According to the consortium behind the lottery, players can expect bigger jackpots and more lucrative prizes across the board. The current record jackpot stands at a staggering $1.6 billion, won in August 2023.
Despite the increased ticket cost, the consortium is confident that players will continue to participate, driving up jackpot amounts. “Our research suggests that players are willing to pay more for the chance to win bigger prizes,” a lottery spokesperson explained. “The $5 price point is already popular in many state lotteries, so we’re optimistic about the response.”
Key changes to the game include:
* An automatic prize multiplier, previously an additional $1 option, will now be included in the ticket price. This means non-jackpot winnings will automatically be boosted, with potential multipliers of two times or more.
* A detailed prize matrix will be released closer to the April launch date.
Mega Millions is a national game, available in 45 states, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with drawings held every Tuesday and Friday at 11 p.m. ET.
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