Alright, I’ll admit it—I’ve been playing the lottery way too long to keep lying to myself. Some of these games? They’re straight-up scams for dreamers. The odds are so bad, you’d have a better shot at getting struck by lightning while being attacked by a moose. But some? Some actually give you a chance. So, I did some research (and way too much personal trial-and-error) to figure out which ones are worth it.
Lottario – Jackpot odds: 1 in 4 million
Honestly, this might be the best kept secret in Canadian lotteries. It’s 3x easier to hit than Lotto 6/49 and 8x easier than Lotto Max—which means you might actually see some real money in your lifetime. If you’re gonna chase a jackpot, this is the one.
Daily Keno – Odds of winning anything: 1 in 2.81
This one’s for the people who want consistent wins instead of chasing some mythical jackpot. My buddy is OBSESSED with this one, and honestly? He wins small prizes constantly. Nothing crazy, but enough to keep playing for free.
Ontario 49 – Same odds as Lotto 6/49, but cheaper
If you’re in Ontario, this is like Lotto 6/49’s budget version. Same odds, lower ticket price, and way fewer players, so you’re less likely to split a jackpot if you do hit. Feels like a smarter play overall.
Lotto Max – Odds: 1 in 33 million
This one is for pure dreamers. The odds are so stupidly bad, but the jackpots are HUGE, so we all get suckered in every now and then. I buy a ticket maybe once a month, just for fun. It’s like paying $5 to daydream about quitting my job and buying a cabin in the Rockies.
Lotto 6/49 – Odds: 1 in 13.9 million
My dad has been playing this every week for 30 years and has won a grand total of nothing. But will he stop? Absolutely not. I respect the commitment, but let’s be real—this is a longshot game unless you’re just in it for the entertainment.
What about you? Do you go for the big wins, or do you play smart? And be honest, what’s the most ridiculous "lucky number" strategy you’ve ever tried?
The "Actually Winnable" Games
Lottario – Jackpot odds: 1 in 4 million
Honestly, this might be the best kept secret in Canadian lotteries. It’s 3x easier to hit than Lotto 6/49 and 8x easier than Lotto Max—which means you might actually see some real money in your lifetime. If you’re gonna chase a jackpot, this is the one.
Daily Keno – Odds of winning anything: 1 in 2.81
This one’s for the people who want consistent wins instead of chasing some mythical jackpot. My buddy is OBSESSED with this one, and honestly? He wins small prizes constantly. Nothing crazy, but enough to keep playing for free.
Ontario 49 – Same odds as Lotto 6/49, but cheaper
If you’re in Ontario, this is like Lotto 6/49’s budget version. Same odds, lower ticket price, and way fewer players, so you’re less likely to split a jackpot if you do hit. Feels like a smarter play overall.
The "Might As Well Burn Your Money" Games
Lotto Max – Odds: 1 in 33 millionThis one is for pure dreamers. The odds are so stupidly bad, but the jackpots are HUGE, so we all get suckered in every now and then. I buy a ticket maybe once a month, just for fun. It’s like paying $5 to daydream about quitting my job and buying a cabin in the Rockies.
Lotto 6/49 – Odds: 1 in 13.9 million
My dad has been playing this every week for 30 years and has won a grand total of nothing. But will he stop? Absolutely not. I respect the commitment, but let’s be real—this is a longshot game unless you’re just in it for the entertainment.
My Take
I used to be all about the big jackpots, but these days? I’d rather win something, even if it’s smaller. I’ve been playing more Lottario and Daily Keno because they actually feel winnable. And let’s be honest—getting ANY win feels better than endless losses.What about you? Do you go for the big wins, or do you play smart? And be honest, what’s the most ridiculous "lucky number" strategy you’ve ever tried?