how do you "play" this promotion?

Any intelligent and reasoned decision would require additional information regarding the quantity of larger prizes.

Since it is a "drawing", the odds can not be determined because the number of entries making the choice to "gamble" is unknown. The casino should be willing to furnish those asking with the number of top prizes available. Also the likely probability exists that top prizes will not be awarded/won.

As for the "right" way to play this promotion, IMO......

I would reschedule from Thursday arrival to Friday arrival so that my play day could overlap and allow me to double dip the promotion. THAT would be the only advantage play for something like this.

It ain't rocket science. Go Fri-Sat instead of Thurs - Fri and double you chance for the top prize, and get twice the free play.

Are you suggesting that there may be people out there that are not 100% truthful in relating their gambling experieces?

Roadtrip, youre unblocked, so I can see your comments again. Thanks for your suggestion. Unfortunately I can't be there Friday-Saturday, so must go Thursday night and leave Friday morning. However, there is another free play offer that I get on Thursday which, while not big, softens the blow of missing out on this "mystery" promotion on Saturday.

About a year ago there was a similar promotion, two days only, and I was able to be there to catch both. The offer was not as generous. It was $100 guaranteed or gamble for $75 or $150 or $300. On the first night I got $150, and on the second night I got $75. So, $200 was guaranteed and with the gamble I got a total of $225. I dont know how the "wins" were chosen in that one either-- they could be random or assigned... no idea.

Perhaps last year's promotion was designed to reward those who came in on the first day? In which case, if the same strategy works this year, there is perhaps a better chance of getting one of the bigger amounts. Most of my casino play last year was at Rincon, not Caesars, so perhaps I have an edge on a bigger amount?

oobiedoobie, Im very HONEST about my gambling: Ive lost money every year.

If I had to guess, I would guess they limit the number of FP500 and FP1000. So I would think your chances at one of those would diminish at least slightly if the two guys in front of you hit.