An instant lottery ticket game structure and method includes a set of instant lottery tickets, wherein a plurality of these tickets are winning tickets having a predetermined first prize value, as well as a predetermined enhanced second prize value. A validation file stored in a central host computer includes an individual base record for the winning tickets containing ticket identification data and the first prize value. A prize enhancement code on the winning ticket provides an option for the player to opt for the enhanced second prize value at a risk of reducing the first prize value. A sub-record in the validation file is maintained separate from the base record and includes the prize enhancement code and the value of the enhanced second, which may be less than the first prize value. A logic gate in the base record links the sub-record with the base record upon entry of the prize enhancement code by or for the player. For the winning tickets, a single record is created in the validation file by combining the base record with the sub-record upon entry of the prize enhancement code, the single record including a final prize value of the winning ticket.