In the near-future California depicted in Jackpot, the stakes of winning the Grand Lottery are incredibly high. The lottery winner gets $3.6 billion—but only if they survive until sundown. Anyone with a losing ticket can kill the winner to claim the prize. Here’s how to survive this deadly game.
Step 1: Secure a Safe Location or Get Out of Dodge
Hunker Down in a Secure Shelter
If you’ve just won the Grand Lottery, you have two options: find a secure location and hunker down or immediately escape to a less populated area. Consider finding a sturdy building with limited entry points to fortify yourself. A basement or underground bunker could be ideal. If you plan to stay put, fortify all doors and windows to prevent intruders. Traps and barricades can buy you time while you wait for sundown.
Escape to the Outskirts
Alternatively, if you think staying in one place is too risky, the best bet is to get out of the city quickly. Head toward rural or less populated areas where there will be fewer people hunting you. Reaching a specific checkpoint, like in the film (The Grapevine), could provide safety and end the game early.
Step 2: Have Weapons Ready for Self-Defense
Arm Yourself
Since no guns are allowed, it’s essential to equip yourself with a variety of melee weapons. Knives, crowbars, or baseball bats can be effective tools for self-defense. Keep a small knife on you at all times—it’s useful not only for fighting but for cutting ropes, opening containers, or escaping tricky situations. Always stay vigilant, as the winner will be tracked by drones and your location will be broadcast every few minutes.
Non-Lethal Weapons
If you’re more inclined to non-lethal defense, consider stun guns or pepper spray to incapacitate attackers without killing them. These weapons can buy you time to flee while keeping your hands clean. In this scenario, surviving without killing might make the journey easier mentally, but always be prepared to fight if it becomes necessary.
Step 3: Prepare Your Bugout Bag in Advance
Emergency Kit Essentials
Before the lottery winner is announced, it’s smart to have a bugout bag ready. This should include basic survival items such as water, food, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit. Include weapons and extra clothing in case you need to move quickly. A bugout bag ensures you’re prepared to leave at a moment’s notice, which could be critical when your location is being constantly tracked.
Stay Mobile
Whether you plan to hunker down or flee the city, mobility is crucial. Have a reliable vehicle or bike ready, as well as a backup escape route in case your first option becomes compromised. Fast reflexes and constant awareness of your surroundings are key when survival is at stake.
Step 4: Time Your Moves Carefully
Survive Until Sundown
Remember, you only need to survive until sundown. The Grand Lottery has a time limit, so pacing yourself is important. Don’t take unnecessary risks. If you’re in a safe location, stay there until the clock runs out. If you’re escaping, plan each move with caution. Avoid crowded areas and travel only when you’re certain the coast is clear.
Use the Environment to Your Advantage
Make use of natural cover, such as trees, hills, or abandoned buildings, to hide from potential attackers. Use shadows and blind spots to stay out of sight from those who might be hunting you.
Stay Sharp, Stay Ready
Surviving the Grand Lottery in Jackpot requires a combination of smart preparation, quick thinking, and tactical decision-making. Secure shelter, arm yourself, and stay mobile to increase your chances of outlasting the game. Having your weapons ready, a bugout bag on hand, and a solid escape plan can make all the difference. With careful planning, you can survive until sundown and walk away with the prize.