For West Virginians interested in trying their chances at large jackpots, draw games like POWERBALL©, MEGA MILLIONS®, and LOTTO AMERICA© offer three distinct ways to play — each with its own structure, prize tiers, and play features. Whether you’re just getting started or are already a registered iPLAY user, understanding how these games differ can help you decide which one fits your play style.
While many draw games are available online through the West Virginia Lottery’s secure iPLAY platform, it’s important to know which games can be played from home and which require a visit to a licensed retailer. For instance, you can’t currently play KENO online, but it remains a popular retail-exclusive option across the state. On the other hand, POWERBALL©, MEGA MILLIONS®, and LOTTO AMERICA© are all available to play online through iPLAY, offering flexibility and convenience.
Let’s break down how these three national games compare.
POWERBALL©: High Jackpots With Three Draws A Week
POWERBALL© is one of the most recognized multi-state draw games, with jackpots starting at $20 million and often growing into the hundreds of millions — or even higher. Drawings are held three times a week: Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 10:59 PM ET.
To play, you select five white ball numbers from 1 to 69 and one red POWERBALL number from 1 to 26. Tickets cost $2 per play, and you can add the Power Play feature for $1 to multiply non-jackpot prizes by up to 10X.
POWERBALL© offers nine prize tiers, and online players using iPLAY can enable features like Auto-Renewal and Jackpot Chase to manage their entries automatically.
MEGA MILLIONS®: Upgraded Gameplay And Bigger Multipliers
As of April 2025, MEGA MILLIONS® received a major update that introduced a $5 ticket with a built-in multiplier on every play. Previously optional, the multiplier is now included and can increase non-jackpot prizes by up to 10X — meaning a second-tier prize could reach up to $10 million.
In MEGA MILLIONS®, you select five numbers from 1 to 70 and one Mega Ball number from 1 to 25. Draws are held every Tuesday and Friday. Like POWERBALL©, there are nine prize tiers.
With the enhanced format, the starting jackpot remains at $20 million, but now grows faster between draws. Online features through iPLAY include Quick Pick, multiple draw selection, and the ability to save your number preferences.
LOTTO AMERICA©: Smaller Jackpots With Different Odds
LOTTO AMERICA© is a multi-state game that offers a smaller pool of numbers and a starting jackpot typically around $2 million. It may not reach the same headline-making amounts as POWERBALL© or MEGA MILLIONS®, but it provides an alternative for those looking to try a game with different odds.
To play, choose five numbers from 1 to 52 and one Star Ball number from 1 to 10. Tickets cost $1, and an optional All-Star Bonus feature can be added to increase non-jackpot prizes. Drawings take place on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
LOTTO AMERICA© is also available through iPLAY and supports both Auto-Renewal and Jackpot Chase options.
Choosing The Right Draw Game For You
If you’re drawn to larger jackpots and frequent drawings, POWERBALL© may offer the schedule and top prize potential you’re looking for. MEGA MILLIONS® brings enhanced value with its built-in multiplier and Tuesday/Friday draw cycle. LOTTO AMERICA©, with its lower ticket cost and smaller number pool, presents a different style of play that some users may prefer.
Whichever game you choose, you can participate securely online through the West Virginia Lottery’s iPLAY platform. You’ll be able to track your tickets, receive win notifications, and take advantage of convenient features like Auto-Renewal to ensure you never miss a draw. Remember, a win is never guaranteed so always play within your means.
