History of scratch cards and their transition to digital format
Scratch cards are one of the most recognizable and simple types of gambling, combining instant drawing and a minimum participation threshold. Their journey from printed tickets to interactive online versions is linked to advances in technology, changing player habits and the digitalisation of the gaming industry.
1) Appearance of the first scratch cards
The first mass scratch tickets appeared in the 1970s in the United States, developed by the Scientific Lottery Group (Scientific Games).
The concept was to apply a protective latex layer to a cardboard or paper base, under which a predetermined result was hidden.
The simplicity of the rules and the instant disclosure of the winnings made the product extremely popular.
2) The rise of paper scratchcards
The 1980s-1990s were the peak of the offline versions' popularity, with national and regional lotteries incorporating scratchcards into the range.
They were sold in kiosks, supermarkets, at gas stations.
Printing companies developed complex protective elements: unique serial numbers, microtext, hidden images, holograms.
3) Limitations of the traditional format
A physical ticket purchase was required.
Limited range at one point of sale.
Possibility of ticket loss or damage.
Dependence on logistics and printing.
4) First steps to digitalization
In the 2000s, the integration of scratch mechanics into online casinos began.
The first versions were as simple as possible, imitating a paper ticket, but worked using a random number generator (RNG).
It became possible to play without installing additional software - through a browser.
5) Online empowerment
Add animation, sound effects, interactive transitions.
Introduction of themed designs, story scenarios and bonus levels.
Linking to the player's account: saving statistics, history of winnings and bonuses.
6) Mobile revolution
The move to HTML5 technology has made scratchcards available on smartphones and tablets.
Gesture mechanics appeared: "erasing" with your finger across the screen.
The ability to participate in draws at any time and from anywhere.
7) Modern stage of development
Integration with other types of games (slots, mini-games, quests).
The ability to connect progressive jackpots.
Support for cryptocurrency payments and instant payments.
RNG certification and audit by independent laboratories to confirm integrity.
8) Final transformation
The transition from paper scratchcards to the online version not only retained the basic mechanics of instant winnings, but also significantly expanded functionality. The digital format eliminated geographical and logistical limitations, added convenience, security and variability of the gameplay, turning scratch cards into a modern interactive product of the iGaming industry.
1) Appearance of the first scratch cards
The first mass scratch tickets appeared in the 1970s in the United States, developed by the Scientific Lottery Group (Scientific Games).
The concept was to apply a protective latex layer to a cardboard or paper base, under which a predetermined result was hidden.
The simplicity of the rules and the instant disclosure of the winnings made the product extremely popular.
2) The rise of paper scratchcards
The 1980s-1990s were the peak of the offline versions' popularity, with national and regional lotteries incorporating scratchcards into the range.
They were sold in kiosks, supermarkets, at gas stations.
Printing companies developed complex protective elements: unique serial numbers, microtext, hidden images, holograms.
3) Limitations of the traditional format
A physical ticket purchase was required.
Limited range at one point of sale.
Possibility of ticket loss or damage.
Dependence on logistics and printing.
4) First steps to digitalization
In the 2000s, the integration of scratch mechanics into online casinos began.
The first versions were as simple as possible, imitating a paper ticket, but worked using a random number generator (RNG).
It became possible to play without installing additional software - through a browser.
5) Online empowerment
Add animation, sound effects, interactive transitions.
Introduction of themed designs, story scenarios and bonus levels.
Linking to the player's account: saving statistics, history of winnings and bonuses.
6) Mobile revolution
The move to HTML5 technology has made scratchcards available on smartphones and tablets.
Gesture mechanics appeared: "erasing" with your finger across the screen.
The ability to participate in draws at any time and from anywhere.
7) Modern stage of development
Integration with other types of games (slots, mini-games, quests).
The ability to connect progressive jackpots.
Support for cryptocurrency payments and instant payments.
RNG certification and audit by independent laboratories to confirm integrity.
8) Final transformation
The transition from paper scratchcards to the online version not only retained the basic mechanics of instant winnings, but also significantly expanded functionality. The digital format eliminated geographical and logistical limitations, added convenience, security and variability of the gameplay, turning scratch cards into a modern interactive product of the iGaming industry.
