Quote: Originally posted by keystonechas on March 03, 2004
In the state of Pennsylvania the odds is listed on the back of each ticket and posted on the state lottery site. One neat feature on the web site, is they post how many winners are left! It's not real time but updated about once every week, and I guess its better than nothing. The big unknown, is how many total tickets are left. I do feel it does give you a slight edge. As a example, which would you rather play? The one dollar game Rooster Riches with 12 $1000, 15 $100 and 56 $40 left, or the one dollar game Bring Home The Bacon with 158 $1000, 401 $100 and 2,297 $40 left as of March 1, 2004. I carry a list in my wallet which I upgrade once a week of the scratch off games with the most top prizes remaining. Chas
First , interesting examples, both games were to comemeorate the Farm Show.
Anyway, my preference is for a lower hit rate. Also, just like slots, a lower top end prize is a better distribution of all prizes, and a better hit rate. I've noticed that the lower denomination ($1) tickets have a higher odds (close to 1 in 5) than higher $5 and $10 tickets with lower odds ( 1 in 3.5). ($2 tickets are slightly higher)There are exceptions: Most $3 tickets are hotter than $5 tickets, the $2 win for life is higher than most $1 tickets. [High top prize], and the $5 bingo might be the best of all. (Almost 50-50). The $20 Christmas ticket (every one's a winner) is OK, as was the $1 last year's christmas ticket in a $5 pack. The odds were pretty close of every pack having a winner, but mostly $1 or $2. so what do you really win? Yeah I know, minimize loss. Geneally special dvent tickets have slightly better odds and payouts. (Birthday, Christmas, and other Holdiay (Groundhogs, St. Patty's, Valentines, 4th of July, etc.)
But good advice to watch for the remaining big prizes. Always a chance. Also I try to go for those, (especially the $1 tickets) that have a top prie that can be cashed right away. I never had the experience, but if I have to fill out a form and wait for a check, well... but then, that amont of money would be worth it, don't you think?
Also noticed that Pa. odds on instants seem better than neighboring states. Any thoughts?