In this Q&A, we sit down with Dirk Gibson, the creator of Treasure Game$, an innovative platform that blends skill-based treasure hunting with the thrill of winning life-changing rewards. The mastermind behind the popular Wish Lamps game shares how his desire to develop a better alternative to traditional lotteries—one that spreads wealth more equitably—evolved over two decades into a nationwide treasure hunt. With a background in business and entertainment, he discusses the challenges and inspirations that shaped the creation of a unique gaming experience that is both exciting and empowering.
What inspired you to create treasure games, particularly the Wish Lamps game?
Well, I’m not sure of the exact moment, but I’d say it was about 20 years ago when someone won a $500 million lottery. I remember thinking that this wasn’t the best way to distribute wealth—one person wins while everyone else loses. I thought a better model would be if 500 people each won $1 million. That idea stuck with me. I started researching a better model back then. In fact, I probably still have the folder in my office from 20-25 years ago.
Over the years, I’ve built seven companies, and they’re all still running. So I’ve been busy, and it wasn’t easy finding time to work on this idea. I researched it during weekends and evenings, but I couldn’t crack it. It all seemed tied to gambling, and private lotteries aren’t feasible. So I set it aside for a while.
Then, about six years ago, I was working on a TV show for Netflix—one of my companies creates TV shows—and I had this idea about placing magic lamps around the world. When people found them, they’d get three real wishes. But we couldn’t figure out how to produce it for television because of the logistical challenges.
As I kept thinking about the magic lamps, my earlier idea about a better lottery model resurfaced. I decided to create a platform centered around treasure hunting, with the first game called “Wish Lamps.” I would hide actual lamps, and whoever found them would get three wishes. By adding more games of skill, I could spread wealth more equitably than through a lottery. That’s how it all came together.
You mentioned that giving $1 million to 500 people is a better way to spread wealth. Did you also feel it was important for people to actively participate and use skill, rather than relying on dumb luck like in a lottery?
Exactly, Marc. The idea started to crystallize over time. I realized that with a treasure hunting platform, not only could I spread wealth more effectively, but people could also influence their chances of winning through their own efforts. That was a huge improvement over the lottery, where the odds are 300 million to one, and it’s all down to luck.
Here, it’s different. Yes, there’s some element of luck, but 90% of the outcome depends on how much effort the participants put into solving clues, taking risks, and committing their time. It’s a process of investing in oneself, and when people win, they feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. At our award ceremonies, you can see that they truly feel like they’ve changed their own destiny.
In contrast to a lottery, this is a way to become a millionaire through skill, effort, and hard work—not pure chance.
Your process is fascinating, particularly with all the different elements you had to bring together, from hiding the lamps to developing the tech. Was it difficult to manage all of these different aspects?
Absolutely. The process started with a year of research and writing a business plan, followed by a year of innovation and planning. I didn’t want the idea to get taken over by a big company like Facebook or Google and lose its purpose. I’m driven by the vision of creating a better model for wealth distribution, not just making money.
At the outset, I didn’t realize I was building a technology company. That wasn’t my intention. I thought I’d be creating games and managing treasure hunts. But as I started building the platform, I realized I needed a technological infrastructure—one that could be accessed by any electronic device, anywhere in the world. That led to years of working with technology, which was not what I originally expected. I’ve spent countless hours and significant money on tech development. It turned out to be a much bigger project than I initially thought.
But along the way, I was able to merge my entertainment background with the treasure hunting concept. We built a platform where people could upload content—sort of like the TikTok of treasure hunting—and it’s become a central part of the experience. People post their adventures, and it’s all grown beyond just games.
How do you approach hiding the Wish Lamps?
That’s been another challenge. First, we spent a solid year just getting the lamp designed and made. It was a long process of figuring out materials and finding the right manufacturer. Eventually, we got them made through a foundry that produces bronze artwork. The lamps turned out great—heavy, smooth, and durable, with an embossed logo and a place for a tracking device.
Hiding the lamps is its own adventure. Each region presents different challenges. I’ve had to contact friends, business owners, and sometimes even cold-call people to get permission to hide the lamps on their properties. One of the best moments was when the entire city of Spartanburg, South Carolina, allowed me to hide a lamp there. That was a major breakthrough, and it’s a model I hope to replicate—working with cities and larger regions rather than private businesses.
It’s taken a lot of creativity, coordination, and problem-solving to hide the lamps securely. Each location presents unique difficulties, and the process can take months to finalize.
What’s the sign-up process like for participants?
There are two access levels: free access and full access. When you sign up, you create an account on the Treasure Game$ platform, which can be accessed via the web or a mobile app. Free access gives you a limited number of clues—10 per region—and allows you to enjoy the community, but you can’t win any prizes unless you upgrade to full access, which costs $8.99 per month or $89.99 per year. Full access gives you access to all the active regions and increases your chances of winning.
Can one person win twice?
Not currently—they have to wait a year after finding a lamp before they can win again. However, the games are played in seasons, and eventually, I plan to allow participants to win once per season, which could mean winning two lamps in a year.
How has the reception been among participants who don’t win?
Our platform has strict community guidelines: no negativity is allowed. It’s a private platform, and we want to foster a positive, uplifting environment. Participants can either express support for winners or post their own content in a positive manner. If they want to vent frustrations, they do it on our social media channels like Facebook or TikTok.
Overall, people who don’t win still express support and enjoy the adventure. It’s more than just a treasure hunt—it’s about creating a positive space where people come together. I’ve had participants tell me that playing with their families has been the real treasure.
Why should people play?
In today’s world, it’s rare to find something that is both hopeful and life-changing. Treasure Game$ offers people a real chance to change their lives while having fun and going on an adventure. It’s not just about winning money; it’s about using your skills, getting outside, and sharing the experience with others. I’ve had families tell me that this has brought them closer together. For $8.99 a month, you’re not only playing for a chance to win life-changing prizes but also for the thrill of the hunt and the joy of solving clues. It’s a unique experience that’s making a positive impact on people’s lives.
IMAGE CREDIT: Dirk Gibson.