Scratch Cards Following Online Casinos
Scratch cards were invented by John Kosa, a computer science graduate, and Daniel Bower, an expert in marketing. It all started when the duo printed random patterns of numbers and symbols that could be re-created by computers. These were then overlain with a latex type material that would scratch off easily.
In 1974, they formed their own company, the Scientific Games Corporation. This was responsible for producing the first prototype for the scratch card which is still in use today.
The pair believed there could be a stable market within the States. Where there was a heavy reliance on using lottery games for fundraising.
They were correct in their prediction, and the novel idea was first adopted in Massachusetts, which went on to be highly successful.
On average, they were generating $2.7 million a week. While many other states were approaching the team so they could use scratch cards within their own lotteries.
Further innovation happened in 1985. Cal Tigner, a businessman, invented a transparent plastic booth that sat on counters and displayed rolls of scratch cards. Again, this invention was a success, selling around 200,000 units a year.
Overall, the principles of today’s scratch cards remain similar to 1974. Aside from the fact that more eye-catching designs can now be produced thanks to advanced printing techniques. Many see them as a quick way to try their luck whilst buying their usual weekly shop with many success stories keeping the dream alive.
The Shift Of Scratch Cards Online
Another significant change in the history of scratchcards is the fact that they are now commonly available online through casino sites.
This comes as no surprise, considering they ideally complement other casino games on offer. Now players can virtually scratch-off panels with just the click of a mouse.
Players can experience all the excitement of a win instantly when they are at home or on the go.
They can also play at their own pace, in the hope of finding matching symbols as they scratch them away. There are lots of different games and themes to try as well.
Online scratch cards are usually more enjoyable because players can enjoy their earnings right away. They don’t have to make an unnecessary trip back to the store they purchased their card at, just to claim their prize.
Playing scratch cards online is also mess-free, as you won’t get covered in the annoying shavings that come off actual scratch cards. Then there is the benefit that opponents can play wherever they want.
Players can even choose the autoplay option. This allows them to play several different games at once, or to scratch all panels off at once.
Playing scratch cards online is very safe. Just make sure the casino you’re playing at is fully licensed and regulated.
Also, check the RTP of the game you’re considering. The payout may vary from a couple of hundred pounds, or even thousands of pounds, hundreds of thousands, or if you’re fortunate, potentially millions!
Similarly, some games offer flat payouts, regardless of what you wagered. Whereas others offer hefty payouts which are based on a multiplication of the amount wagered.
Many different scratchcard themes are available, each with a different set of winning symbols. Some you have to match the symbols to win, whereas with others, you’re required to scratch one line to win.
How Casinos Have Successfully Transitioned Into The Online Space
The transition of casinos into the online space has been hugely successful, and there are many different reasons why this is the case.
Firstly, online casino sites are incredibly convenient as players aren’t forced to get dressed up simply to have a few spins on their favourite slot game. It’s much more convenient to make a deposit online, then play your chosen game from the comfort of your own home.
They’re also more affordable. Going to a brick and mortar casino usually involves buying food and drink as well. After all, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to spend an entire night out in a casino without any kind of refreshment. This can be expensive.
Therefore, playing casino games online, at home, is much more affordable. It allows you more time to enjoy the great number of games that online casinos can have – between 500 to 1000 games on offer on average. Something which real casinos simply cannot rival.
In short, online casinos appeal to a larger audience. Plus, the chances of winning at an online casino are greater.
Online casinos have fewer overheads than brick and mortar casinos. Resultantly, the return to player ratio for online casinos usually is much greater.
In other words, if you’re only playing for the prize, you’re more likely to win at an online casino.
Bonuses and promotions also tend to be better at online casinos.
While land-based casinos do offer VIP programs or high roller benefits, online casinos reward players who deposit as little as £5. Operators do this because online casinos are highly competitive and want to entice you with bonuses upon signing up.
Both Scratchcards and Casinos are More Prominent Online
When looking at the growth of both casinos and scratchcards, they both appear to have a lot in common.
They both started from relatively humble beginnings, developing through the years and becoming more popular as they both eventually transitioned online. It’s also arguable that the transition of scratch cards to online casinos was a natural step, considering they complement casino games so well.
Now that scratch cards can be played online, they now enjoy most of the benefits that online casinos themselves offer.
