Colorado Lottery Unveils Major Overhaul of Mega Millions Game
The Colorado Lottery is set to launch a significant overhaul of its Mega Millions jackpot game, starting April 5, 2024, with the first drawing scheduled for April 8. This update aims to enhance player experiences and increase jackpot opportunities, as noted by Tom Seaver, Senior Director of the Colorado Lottery.
Key improvements include better odds of winning the jackpot, more frequent and larger jackpots, and a faster-growing jackpot structure. Additionally, every play will feature a built-in multiplier, increasing non-jackpot winnings by 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X, or 10X, with potential payouts reaching up to $10 million for matching five white balls. Notably, there will be no breakeven prizes, ensuring that every winning ticket guarantees players earn more than the ticket cost.
"This is an exciting transition for our players," said Seaver. "Colorado has yet to have its own Mega Millions grand prize winner, but with these changes, we are optimistic about the opportunities for our players. Furthermore, a substantial portion of proceeds—upwards of 38%—will fund various projects across the state, enhancing our communities."
The price for tickets will rise to $5 per play, marking only the second cost adjustment in over two decades. Players will also need to be aware that advance play options will end on April 4, in line with the new changes.
Mega Millions, which features drawings twice a week and is available in 45 states, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands, continues to be a popular national game. Since its inception in 2002, Colorado has recorded five $1 million winners, and in the past year alone, the state has awarded over $200,000 in prizes ranging from $10,000 to $40,000 through standard gameplay.