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About Mega Millions
Official Game Summary & Parameters
Mega Millions is one of America's premier multi-state lottery games, available in 45 states, Washington D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Since its inception, Mega Millions has produced some of the largest jackpots in global lottery history, drawing millions of participants twice a week.
Current Game Matrix
In April 2025, Mega Millions underwent a major structure upgrade to enhance non-jackpot prizes and create faster-growing jackpots:
⚪ Regular Numbers Pool
Pick 5 numbers from 1 to 70
⭐ Mega Ball Pool
Pick 1 number from 1 to 25
Historical Timeline
💡Data Tracking Context: AiLottoAnalyzer's statistical engine strictly analyzes draw data starting from October 2017, which ensures all calculations are based entirely on the modern 5/70 + 1/25 game matrix rules.
Aug 1996
Launches as "The Big Game" in 6 states. Tickets cost $1, drawings weekly on Fridays.
Feb 1998
Tuesday drawings added to the schedule.
May 2002
Rebranded as "Mega Millions." New York and Ohio join. Matrix adjusted for larger jackpots.
Jan 2010
Historic cross-selling agreement — state lotteries can now sell both Powerball and Mega Millions.
Oct 2013
Matrix changes to 5-of-75 white balls and 1-of-15 gold balls. Starting jackpot raised to $15 million.
Oct 2017
Ticket price doubles from $1 to $2. Matrix changes to 5-of-70 / 1-of-25. Starting jackpot raised to $40 million, enabling historic multi-billion-dollar jackpots.
Apr 2020
COVID-19 adjustments eliminate guaranteed minimum jackpot amounts, shifting to a sales-based system.
Apr 2025
Major overhaul: ticket price rises to $5, built-in multiplier (no extra charge), Mega Ball pool reduced from 25 to 24, jackpot resets at $50 million.