Instant win games have become a popular feature at online casinos and lottery websites. They're quick, straightforward, and provide immediate results. However, some players are left wondering whether these games are genuinely fair or if the outcomes are fixed in advance.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at how instant win games work, what it really means for a game to be “predetermined,” and how frequently players tend to win. Read on to find out more.
Are Instant Win Games Fixed?
Instant win games are not fixed. They operate using Random Number Generator (RNG) technology, which ensures that every result is entirely random and cannot be predicted or influenced.
Although instant win games may feel different from traditional lottery draws, where players wait for results, the underlying technology is strictly regulated. Gambling operators must comply with robust rules set by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) to ensure fairness and transparency. In addition, these games are routinely tested by independent auditors who monitor for any irregularities or patterns.
The fact that results are delivered instantly does not mean outcomes are predetermined. Wins occur when a player’s entry matches the outcome selected by the RNG; otherwise, it results in a loss. There is no incentive for operators to fix games, as doing so would risk both their licences and reputations.
Are Instant Win Games Predetermined?
This is a common question, largely because the term “predetermined” can be interpreted in different ways. In the context of instant win games, the answer depends on whether the game is digital (such as online games) or physical (such as scratch cards). 
Digital Instant Win Games
For online instant win games, the actual outcome is not selected in advance for each player. Instead, what is predetermined is the overall prize structure, for example, how many prizes exist at each level (such as 100 prizes of £10 or 5 prizes of £500).
When a player interacts with the game (by clicking, spinning, revealing, or similar actions), the result is determined in real time using random number generator (RNG) technology. This ensures a fair and unpredictable outcome at the time of play. While the pool of available prizes is fixed ahead of time, whether a particular player wins or loses is not known until the moment they play.
Printed Instant Win Games (e.g., Scratch Cards)
With physical instant win games, the process is slightly different. Every ticket or card is printed with a predetermined outcome before distribution. This means each scratch card is either a winner or a loser before it ever reaches the player. The randomness occurs during the printing and packaging process, where the allocation of winning cards is distributed according to the present prize structure.
However, even though the outcome is pre-assigned, players do not know if they have won until they physically scratch off the ticket. This creates the same element of surprise and excitement as with digital versions.
How Often Do People Win On Instant Win Games?
The odds of winning on instant win games can vary significantly depending on the specific game and the prize on offer. In general, players tend to have better chances of winning smaller prizes compared to the odds of landing a large jackpot in major number-draw lotteries such as EuroMillions.
For instance, smaller prizes such as £45 are typically awarded more frequently than top prizes like £145,000. According to the National Lottery, more than £15.5 million in prizes is paid out each week across its range of games. This suggests that many players do win, although the majority of prizes tend to be lower in value.
Has Anyone Ever Won Big On Instant Win Games?
While most instant win prizes tend to be on the smaller side, there have been several notable high-value wins. According to the National Lottery, players won an average of £767,717,349 from National Lottery Instant Win Games between 1st September 2023 and 31st August 2024.
Although large wins are rare, some players have walked away with significant sums. For example, a 75-year-old ex-seafarer won £1,000,000 on a scratch card earlier in 2025. Another previous winner is 39-year-old builder Adam Lopez who won £1,000,012.40 on a scratch card.
These examples highlight that, although uncommon, big wins do happen. Online Instant win games continue to rely on RNG technology to determine results, while the outcome for physical cards are predetermined before distribution. Either way the prize structure is set in advance, and the outcome for each player isn’t known until the game is played or the scratch ticket has been scratched.
As always, it’s important to play responsibly. Big wins are possible, but rare—the enjoyment should come from the experience itself, rather than the result.
*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.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.