The Virginia Lottery has launched a new gaming experience – MobilePlay. MobilePlay offers players the opportunity to purchase all existing draw games and new “e-games” via the Virginia Lottery mobile app.

MobilePlay works by connecting a smartphone or tablet to a Lottery retailer’s Bluetooth signal. The majority of the Virginia Lottery’s 5,400 traditional retailer partners will offer MobilePlay. There also are a number of new, mobile-only retailers prepared to offer e-games. Those non-traditional retailers include restaurants, hotels and malls.

“MobilePlay is the start of a really exciting new era for the Virginia Lottery one that allows us to engage with players through mobile technology, which is where most adult consumers expect to be able to conduct much of their business today,” said Virginia Lottery Executive Director Kevin Hall. “MobilePlay allows us to offer both new and traditional lottery products, along with some cool new consumer tools. All of these products and features are now available on your smartphone whenever an adult consumer finds themselves standing anywhere within the premises of a licensed Lottery retailer.”

The Virginia Lottery’s mobile app has been downloaded more than 145,000 times since it was introduced in July. When in Bluetooth range, adult players can use their device to purchase draw game tickets – such as Mega Millions or Powerball – or access a suite of e-games. Players must have an existing, verified Virginia Lottery MyGameRoom account and begin by adding $5 or more into their mobile wallet.

At launch, there are 12 e-games available, including Texas Hold‘em Champion’s Edition, Crossword Royale and 50X The Money. New games will be introduced each month.

“IGT is excited to partner with the Lottery to provide this innovative technology, offering a convenient and more engaging way for players to enjoy new games as well as their favorite traditional games,” said Enrico Drago, IGT Senior Vice President, PlayDigital. “MobilePlay provides a true digital experience that supports expansion into different trade styles and provides strategic growth opportunities to help attract new generations of players.”