Online vs. Traditional Scratch Cards: Know the Differences

Scratch cards, a classic in the world of gambling, involve buying a lottery ticket and scratching off a hidden layer to reveal a prize. Traditionally, you could pick these up at physical casinos, local shops, and even petrol stations. While the excitement of instant wins is the same, the rules and payouts could vary slightly, but they were always straightforward and offered quick thrills.

But with the digital revolution, nearly all casino games, including scratch cards, have made their way online. Now, players at the best online casinos in India can enjoy these games from their phones or computers, playing for real money. So, what’s the real difference between these digital scratch cards and the ones you buy offline? Let’s find out.

How To Play Online Scratch Cards

Many new players think playing scratch cards online is just like buying a ticket at a local shop. While that's true for the older kinds, the modern online versions are more like online slots in gameplay. Generally, you need to match at least three identical symbols in the grid to win. Each symbol carries a different payout value, and you might even unlock bonus rounds, similar to how free spins work in slots.

Availability: Play Anytime, Anywhere

The convenience factor is a big win for both traditional and online scratch cards, allowing players to chase wins 24/7 as long as they have the funds. However, online scratch cards take convenience up a notch. You can play them anywhere, anytime, just by heading to the top online casinos and start playing. Plus, there's a massive variety of online scratch card games available, many featuring popular online slot themes.

Randomness and Fairness

Players who lose a lot can start doubting the outcomes of physical and online scratch cards. However, these fears are often unfounded if players purchase the cards from a reliable venue or online casino. Online cards use RNG (random number generator) systems to produce unpredictable results, eliminating any chances of the operator or supplier tampering with the results. In short, use scratch cards only from reputable companies.

Simplicity

Both online and physical scratch cards are straightforward to play. But while physical cards are just about scratching off a layer, online cards may need some patience. Online players must first read the game’s paytable to know the maximum amount to win from the game and how each symbol payouts. In addition, these players must consider features like the RTP (return to player) and volatility, which ultimately determines how often the game pays out.

Claiming the Prize

Winners of online and physical cards claim their prizes differently. With the offline version, players must know the dates when the card results are announced or risk losing the entire amount. But online players don’t need to worry about forgetting the dates. After matching the required symbols, the casino instantly processes a payout. Of course, the duration of receiving the online payout depends on the casino and payment method.

Bonuses Make a Difference

Most lottery companies don’t allow players to scratch the cards for free, as gamers must purchase them to know their fate. Conversely, online casinos provide new and regular players free credits. Below are some standard scratch card bonuses for new and loyal online users:

• Match deposit bonuses
• No deposit bonuses
• Cashback
• High roller bonuses

But remember that players can only convert winnings into withdrawable cash after fulfilling the wagering requirements. So, choose a scratch card bonus with the lowest possible wagering requirements.

Summary

Online and offline scratch cards obviously have lots of similarities and differences. But regardless of the version, players must practice bankroll management because the outcomes of these games are entirely luck-based. Online gamblers can improve their odds of winning by playing casino games with higher payout rates, preferably 96% and above.