If you’ve ever wondered how instant win games or scratchcards really work, you’re not alone. These games are widely available both online and in shops, yet many people don’t fully understand what phrases like “predetermined” or “random” mean.
This blog explains the key differences between physical and digital versions, how outcomes are decided, and what to consider before playing.
Whether you're brand new to the subject, or just looking to understand more before spending money, this guide offers a clear breakdown. It aims to help you make more informed choices by covering how potential prizes work, what affects your chances, and why the structure of these games matters.
What Are Instant Win Games?
Instant win games are simple gambling products where you find out if you’ve won straight after playing. These games don’t involve waiting for a draw or result later on. They're available in physical form—such as scratchcards you can buy in shops—and digital form through websites licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC).
When you play an online version, the game might ask you to click, tap or reveal a hidden section. The result is shown almost immediately. Online instant win games can take the form of virtual scratchcards, wheel spins or number reveals. These games use a built-in system to create a random result on the spot.
Physical scratchcards work differently. These are printed with fixed outcomes, so each card is already a winner or non-winner before it’s sold. You reveal hidden panels on the card, usually using a coin or similar object.
Both formats should list the potential prizes, and the cost to play is usually shown clearly in advance. Outcomes are random in nature, meaning results can’t be predicted, altered or influenced. Some might offer potentially frequent low-value prizes, others may offer larger possible prizes with lower odds.
Are Instant Wins Decided Before You Play?
This depends on whether the game is played online or bought in person.
For physical scratchcards, the outcome is printed and fixed during production. The card’s status—whether it’s a win or not—is decided before it reaches the shop. These are produced in large batches, and each one contributes to the overall odds advertised on the packaging.
For example, a scratchcard might state “1 in 4.5 wins a prize”. This means that out of every 4.5 cards on average, one may have a winning outcome. However, the order in which these are sold is random, and any winnings can never be guaranteed.
Online instant win games, on the other hand, do not have pre-set results. When you click to play, the outcome is created instantly using a system called a Random Number Generator (RNG). This technology ensures that each play is unpredictable and not based on any previous results. So, two players playing the same game at the same time could receive entirely different outcomes.
Whether fixed in advance, or generated at the moment of play, neither version allows for prediction or player influence. The result is based entirely on chance.
Role Of Random Number Generators
A Random Number Generator (RNG) is the technology behind all online instant win games. It’s a computer-based system that produces a completely unpredictable result every time you play. No human input or previous outcome can affect it.
In the UK, all licensed online gambling sites must prove that their RNG systems meet strict fairness standards. Independent testing companies check these systems regularly to ensure that games work as advertised.
RNGs are not used for shop-bought scratchcards. Since those outcomes are pre-printed, they don’t need real-time number generation. That’s why online and offline formats use different systems to determine results.
The key point is that each online play is separate. Even if you win—or lose—multiple times in a row, your next play remains independent. There's no pattern or sequence to follow. The system is designed so that no action you take can change your odds.
Odds of Winning on Instant Wins
Before playing any instant win game, it may be worth checking the odds. These give you a general idea of how often prizes may be paid out.
For online games, you’ll usually see something called the RTP, or the Return to Player rate. This is shown as a percentage.
For example, if a game has an RTP of 88%, it means that over a long period of time, around £88 may be paid out in prizes for every £100 staked by all players combined. This is a theoretical figure. It does not mean that you personally will win back 88% of your money. Your actual outcome could be higher or lower.
Shop scratchcards usually display odds such as “1 in 3.75”. This figure is based on the total number of printed cards and how many of those are winners. So, if 3.75 million cards are produced, roughly 1 million will win a prize. However, there's no way to know which cards these are, and you could buy several without winning.
Does Anyone Win Instant Win Games?
Yes, people do win prizes on instant win games—both online and in shops. But it’s important to keep in mind that these games are based entirely on chance. The majority of outcomes do not result in a win.
Licensed operators, such as the National Lottery or UKGC-registered online casinos, may publish anonymised details about past winners. You might see updates such as “£10,000 prize won in Birmingham”, without giving away personal information.
For physical scratchcards, most retailers display potential prize breakdowns, including how many top prizes remain unclaimed. This gives an overview of how many are still available. The National Lottery also posts updated statistics online for its scratchcard games.
But remember—results are never guaranteed. Every game is random, and there's no strategy that can predict or improve your outcome.
What's The Best Time To Play?
There’s no time of day, week or month that changes your chances of winning an instant win game. The outcome is based on randomisation, not on timing or frequency of play.
For shop-bought scratchcards, the result is fixed on the card, so when you buy it makes no difference. For online instant win games, each play is processed independently using RNG technology. The system doesn’t track time, potential patterns or player history.
Some people like to play during quieter moments or when they feel focused. This can make it easier to keep track of what you’re spending and how long you’re playing for. Others may prefer to set a schedule or only play occasionally.
There's no “best” or “worst” time to play. What matters is being aware of your playing behaviour and making sure you’re comfortable with your choices.
Play Instant Win Games Online
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If you have an account, log in to see what’s new. If not, you’re welcome to join No Deposit Slots and see the variety on offer.
Gambling is meant to be an enjoyable activity. It can help to set sensible limits and only play with money you’re comfortable spending. If you ever feel concerned about your gambling, support is available, and it’s completely fine to take a break or reach out for help.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.