From the Diamond Tooth Gerties Gambling Hall - which is Canada's first casino, to Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto, Walk through the doors of any casino in Canada and you’ll notice a quiet pattern. Canadians, like any other really, still have distinct tastes when it comes to wagering. Whether they’re spinning reels online or tossing chips on a felt table, some games simply resonate more than others.
So what exactly are the casino games Canadians can’t seem to get enough of?
Slots: Still the King of the North
Unsurprisingly, slot machines dominate. According to the Canadian Gaming Association (CGA), slots account for more than half of all casino gaming revenue in the country. That makes sense when you realize how prominently they feature in both land-based and online spaces.
In provinces like British Columbia and Ontario, you’ll see row upon row of machines that feature everything from simple three-reel classics to elaborate video slots packed with bonus rounds and progressive jackpots. One reason for their popularity is accessibility: no skill barrier, no intimidation, and the possibility (however slim) of hitting a life-changing jackpot keeps Canadians coming back to the reels.
On the online side, slot games also dominate platforms like PlayNow and OLG.ca, with themed games based on hockey, Canadian wildlife, and even popular TV shows finding their way into players’ favorites.
Poker: Homegrown Passion
Then there’s poker, specifically Texas Hold’em. Canadians have been punching above their weight on the poker scene for years, with legends like Daniel Negreanu showing what’s possible. In casinos, poker rooms remain busy, especially in Alberta and Ontario. Tournaments hosted at Playground Poker Club near Montreal regularly draw international attention.
Poker appeals to Canadians for different reasons than slots. Here, skill and psychology matter just as much as luck. That strategic element has always attracted a loyal following around the globe and many Canadians are drawn to the mix of patience, reading opponents, and making gutsy moves.
Blackjack: The Social Staple
Among table games, blackjack holds a special place. Its rules are straightforward, but with enough nuance for strategy to make a difference which fits perfectly with Canadian sensibilities. In a survey reported by Casino Reports Canada, blackjack consistently ranked as one of the most-played games after slots.
It also helps that blackjack tables are sociable without being overwhelming. Players can chat with each other and the dealer while enjoying a relatively low house edge if played smartly. In casinos across the prairies, you’ll find crowds gathered around these tables every weekend.
Roulette: For the Occasional Thrill
For those who want pure chance with a dose of drama, roulette still draws its fair share of Canadian players. It’s not as universally beloved as slots or blackjack, but its unmistakable spinning wheel has become a fixture on gaming floors. Many Canadians play it for the spectacle and the tension as the ball clatters across red and black still delivers a unique thrill.
Online Evolution
More recently, Canadians have embraced online casino games, partly because of evolving regulations. In Ontario, where iGaming has been regulated since 2022, data from iGaming Ontario shows online slots and live dealer games leading the pack. Live blackjack and roulette in particular have seen a rise online, blending digital convenience with the human element of a real dealer.
Some Canadian-specific themes also pop up online like hockey-themed slot games, maple-leaf motifs, and even curling-inspired bonus rounds play well with players who like a little local flavor.
A Balance of Luck and Skill
What unites Canadians’ preferences is a balance: they enjoy games that offer excitement and potential rewards without sacrificing control. Slots for simplicity, blackjack for strategy, poker for skill, roulette for fun. It’s a spectrum of experience that suits a diverse and laid-back population.
In the end, Canadian casino floors and screens tell a story about the players themselves: they like their fun with a side of thought, their chances fair, and their games just a little bit familiar. Whether it’s the spin of a wheel, the shuffle of cards, or the glow of a screen, the games Canadians love say more about the country’s character than you might expect.
