According to the latest figures from the French gambling regulator ANJ, more than 20 million people took part in scratchcard games in 2024, placing bets totalling €10.7 billion.
“It’s a moment of joy, even if you only win €2,” said one player who took part in a focus group as part of a national study conducted by Concordia University. “It’s like buying a baguette or a coffee — it doesn’t really count in your budget.”
Scratchcards now rival lottery draws as France’s most popular gambling product, thanks in part to their accessibility. Around 30 different scratch games are available in shops, and nearly 100 are playable online. This dual availability has allowed the games to evolve into a modern, omnichannel entertainment product.
“I play when I feel lucky”
For many, scratchcards are tied to mood, routine and even superstition. “If I’ve had a good day, I’ll grab one on the way home,” said a woman in her 30s. “It’s not really about the money. It’s for the fun.”
Others echoed the feeling that scratchcards had become part of their everyday life. “You pop into the tabac, you’ve got some coins in your pocket — you take a ticket,” one man explained. “Sometimes you win, sometimes you don’t. That’s the game.”
Players also praised the diversity and creativity of the designs. “There’s always something new to try,” said one respondent.
That novelty factor is not lost on the players. “Every time there’s a new game, I try it,” said another. “You think, maybe the new ones are more lucky.”
“I like that it’s simple”
The simplicity of scratchcards is part of their charm. “There are no complicated rules,” said one participant. “You just scratch and see.”
According to the study, for those who play online, the appeal is slightly different — faster, more interactive, and increasingly digital-native. “I like the games where there’s animation, or sound effects,” said a younger player: it feels like playing a video game.
Others enjoy the convenience of mobile play. “You don’t need to go out. You can play at night, in bed, on your phone,” said one man. “It’s quick and easy.”
The French market reflects this shift. While 90% of scratchcard play still occurs in physical points of sale, the number of online players continues to grow, particularly among younger demographics and those who prefer digital formats, revealed the study.
“Sometimes I win, sometimes I get my money back”
Part of the enduring popularity of scratchcards lies in the sense of low-risk engagement, and small, frequent wins.
“You don’t expect to get rich,” said one man. “But winning €5 or €10 is enough to make you smile.”
“I often win just enough to buy another ticket,” added another. “It keeps the fun going.”
Several players mentioned the feeling of suspense and anticipation as a key part of the experience. “It’s like a tiny rollercoaster,” said one. “You scratch slowly, hoping to reveal a good number.”
“You can lose track of how much you’ve spent”
But as much as players enjoy the games, they are also increasingly aware of their downsides, particularly when it comes to spending.
“When it’s €1 or €2, it doesn’t feel like real money,” said one woman. “But when you buy ten of them, it adds up.”
Others described the emotional shift that can happen when higher-value tickets are involved. “A €10 ticket isn’t nothing,” said one player. “If you lose, it stings.”
Some admitted to chasing losses. “You tell yourself, ‘Just one more’,” said a man who plays mostly online. “And before you know it, it’s €50 gone.”
A growing digital trend, with caution
“The study confirms that scratchcards are a popular and enjoyable activity,” ANJ said in its press release. “But they are not without risk, particularly when played across multiple platforms.”
Among the 5,019 active players surveyed, most were not considered at high risk. But the proportion of players who fell into the moderate- or high-risk category was significantly higher among those who played both online and in physical shops, or primarily online.
“You don’t see the money going,” said one digital player. “There’s no cash, no ticket. Just clicks.”
The study also noted that players with higher risk profiles were more likely to respond to advertising and promotional offers, especially when games included flashy animations or mechanics inspired by video games or slot machines.
ANJ is keeping watch
Despite the risks, most players saw scratchcards as a harmless pleasure — with the caveat that they must be used responsibly.
“I treat it like buying a snack,” said one woman. “But if I start feeling like I need to win, I stop.”
“It’s a small treat… I don’t make it a habit,” another man said. “When I lose, it’s not a big deal, I already expected it.”
The ANJ focuses on ensuring that players have the tools and awareness to enjoy it safely.
“With such a broad and regular player base, it’s important to monitor and understand the appeal and usage of these games,” the regulator said.
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