Lightning Lotto

We launched Lightning Lotto, a fast-paced progressive jackpot game available at retail locations across Ontario. Unlike traditional lottery games, Lightning Lotto reveals the jackpot numbers upfront. Players receive randomly generated numbers on their ticket and hope for a match. Each play contributes to a growing jackpot, creating a dynamic and engaging retail experience.

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Role: Sr. Product Designer

Tools: Illustrator, Photoshop, XD

Problem

Traditional lottery games rely on delayed gratification—players choose numbers and wait for a scheduled draw. This model lacks immediacy and excitement for retail customers seeking quick, engaging experiences. We needed a game that offered instant visibility, progressive rewards, and simple mechanics.

Problem Statement - How Might We...

How might we design a retail lottery game that delivers instant engagement, leverages progressive jackpots, and differentiates itself from traditional draw-based formats?

Exploration

We explored:

• Player behavior in retail environments, focusing on attention span and impulse play.

• Game mechanics that could support instant feedback and progressive jackpot growth.

• Ticket design and how to clearly communicate game outcomes.

• Retail terminal capabilities and constraints.

Key insights:

• Players are drawn to visible jackpots and quick outcomes.

• Simplicity and clarity are essential—players should understand the game in seconds.

• Progressive jackpots add urgency and repeat play motivation.

Feasibility

Collaborated with:

• Game development to build a backend system that supports real-time jackpot updates and random number generation.

• Retail operations to ensure terminal compatibility and ticket formatting.

• Marketing & CX to craft messaging that explains the game clearly and builds excitement.

Validated feasibility through:

• Simulation testing of jackpot logic

• Retail pilot programs

• Compliance reviews for ticketing and prize distribution

Solution