Mega Millions

Mega Millions is a multi-state U.S. lottery game in which players select numbers for cash prizes, including a jackpot funded by ticket sales across participating jurisdictions.

Connect

Mega Millions drawing: The televised lottery event that randomly selects the numbers used to determine Mega Millions prizes. Each drawing compares selected numbers with the winning combination for that play.
Lottery: A system that awards prizes to participants selected by chance, usually through purchased tickets. Mega Millions is one specific lottery game.
The Big Game: A multi-state lottery launched in 1996 that preceded Mega Millions. Mega Millions developed from this earlier game.
Lottery mathematics: The mathematical analysis of lottery odds, expected value, and prize structures. It quantifies the extremely low chance of winning Mega Millions’ top prize.
Mega Ball: The separate gold ball drawn alongside five white balls in Mega Millions. Matching this distinct number is required for the jackpot.
Random number generation: The production of number sequences using physical processes or computational methods designed to provide randomness. Random selection is the basis for determining winning numbers.
The Big Game Mega Millions: The name used for The Big Game after it was expanded and rebranded in 2002. This transitional title directly preceded the modern Mega Millions name.
Expected value: The probability-weighted average outcome of a decision or uncertain event. It provides a framework for comparing a ticket’s cost with its possible payouts.
Mega Millions prize tiers: The set of prize levels awarded for different combinations of matching Mega Millions numbers. Most winning combinations qualify for a fixed prize rather than the jackpot.
Lottery ticket: A proof of entry in a lottery, carrying the selections or play information needed to claim a prize. A Mega Millions play is recorded on a ticket or digital equivalent.