This article looks at how online instant win games and digital scratchcards work in the UK.
If you’ve ever clicked on a game, scratched a digital panel, and revealed a result in just a few seconds, you might have wondered whether it was all random—or if there's more going on behind the scenes.
Understanding how outcomes are decided can help you make more informed choices about whether or not these types of games are something you’d like to try. We'll also look at the difference between physical scratchcards you buy in shops and their online counterparts, along with the odds, possible prizes, and what really influences the result.
What Are Instant Win Games?
Instant win games are online games that show you the result as soon as you play. These can include scratch-style games, spin wheels, or tap-and-reveal formats. You don’t need to wait for a draw or other players. The game result appears nearly straight away—often after pressing a button or interacting with a virtual scratch area on your screen.
Unlike casino games like poker or blackjack, these do not involve any decision-making or skill. Every play is based on chance. In most cases, you’ll be asked to try and match symbols, uncover a possible prize amount, or reveal certain shapes. Some games may include bonus features, but the outcome is always random.
These games are made available on many UK-licensed gambling websites and must meet the standards set by the Gambling Commission. The games are tested to ensure they are fair and do what they claim to do.
Players can usually find all the key details—such as how any potential prizes work, the rules, and what each symbol means—within the game’s help section or information menu.
Are Instant Win Games Predetermined?
With physical scratchcards, the result is set when the card is printed. This means that each card has a fixed outcome before you even buy it. These are produced in large batches, with a set number of winning and non-winning cards distributed at random. The odds of finding a prize are based on the total batch, not just the cards you happen to buy.
Online instant win games work differently. They do not have pre-assigned outcomes. Instead, they use software called a Random Number Generator (RNG). This technology selects a result at the exact moment you play. Nothing is pre-decided or saved in advance. Each result is generated independently of any previous or future plays.
RNG systems used in the UK must be checked by testing organisations approved by the Gambling Commission. These include companies like eCOGRA and iTech Labs, which examine the software to confirm it meets strict fairness requirements.
Because each round is separate and the outcome is generated in real-time, there’s no way to predict or influence the result.
Can Instant Win Games Be Predicted?
No. UK online instant win games that are properly licensed and regulated use independently tested RNGs, which make each result random and unpredictable. You cannot track outcomes, spot patterns, or apply a method to work out when a win might happen.
Each game uses algorithms that produce random combinations. These systems are monitored and tested on a regular basis to ensure nothing interferes with the randomness. Your chance of winning does not increase based on how many times you’ve played, or what happened in any previous rounds.
This is different from games where skill or decisions can affect the result. Instant win games do not involve any choices that could influence the outcome once the game starts. Because of this, there are no reliable systems or techniques that can improve your odds.
Some people prefer games with strategy or decision-making, while others may be more comfortable with chance-based games. Which is better depends on what you’re looking for in a game.
Odds of Winning Instant Wins
All licensed online instant win games in the UK must display the odds of winning or the Return to Player (RTP) figure. The RTP is shown as a percentage and gives an idea of how much, on average, may be paid back to players over time.
For example, if a game has an RTP of 90%, it means that—over many thousands of plays—the game may return £90 for every £100 staked. This is not a guarantee that you will get £90 back. It’s a theoretical figure, based on long-term use across all players, not individual outcomes.
Physical scratchcards sold in UK shops usually show the odds on the back of the card. These are expressed as a ratio, such as 1 in 3.74. This means that, across all the cards printed, one in every 3.74 cards may contain some kind of prize. However, this doesn’t mean that buying four cards will result in a win, as each card is a separate chance.
Can You Win Big on Instant Wins?
Some online instant win games offer prizes worth thousands—or in some cases, hundreds of thousands—of pounds. These figures are usually shown clearly in the game's instructions or paytable.
That said, large prizes are statistically rare. In some games, the odds of hitting the top prize could be one in several million. Most prizes will usually be smaller amounts, such as £1, £5, or £10. It's important to check the prize breakdown, so you know what you’re playing for.
The same applies to physical scratchcards. The top prizes are usually shown on the front or back of the card, and the number of those prizes in circulation is often listed. Some cards may offer a top prize of £100,000, while others may focus on more frequent smaller potential prizes instead.
It’s also worth noting that some online instant win games may have progressive prize pots that increase over time. These work differently, so make sure to read how the prize structure functions before starting.
Are Instant Wins Worth Playing?
This depends on your preferences. Instant win games may appeal to those who like short, straightforward games with quick results. If you enjoy games that don’t require instructions or learning, they may suit you. Others may prefer games that involve more depth or decision-making, such as card games or sports betting.
Instant wins are simple and based entirely on chance. You don’t need any previous experience. Everyone has the same probability of winning each time they play. There is no “best” or “worst” game, as it depends on personal preferences.
Before choosing a game, check the odds, RTP, possible prize breakdown, and cost per play. This can help you decide whether the game may be right for you.
Online instant win games and scratchcards are based on chance. Winnings can happen, but they are never guaranteed. Use the available information, understand the game before playing, and make choices that suit your situation.
*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.