Mega Millions: Better odds, bigger jackpots planned

Mega Millions players will see jackpots and their odds of winning increase under a new rollout of the popular multi-state game that will debut Tuesday.

According to lottery officials, changes to the Mega Millions game includes jackpots starting at
$15 million, up from $12 million; an increase in second-tier prizes from $250,000 to $1 million for matching five numbers; and an increase in the odds for winning a prize, from 1:40 to 1:15.

"We expect these changes will increase interest and excitement in the game," Stephen Martino, director of the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency, said in a release sent by the organization. "Improvements to the jackpots and better odds for winning any prize should attract players in greater numbers."

Under the new structure, players will select from 75 white balls, and 15 gold Mega balls and megaplier tickets will increase by $1. And if a drawing doesn't produce a winner, officials will add $5 million to the next one. Players could begin purchasing tickets under the new game rules Saturday.

The revamp of the $1 lottery game gives players a 1 in 259 million chance of hitting the jackpot. The odds used to be slightly better, at 1 in 175 million.