Online gaming in Canada: What is Trending?

Computers are no longer just business tools. Nowadays, we increasingly go online for our entertainment and that includes games and gaming. With literally thousands of people gaming simultaneously and plenty of opportunities to interact with others in the gaming environment, online gaming has also acquired a social aspect. How are Canadians using the internet to have fun and socialize, and what are our favourite games?

Online Casinos

For many, the thrill of gambling – betting a real stake on the outcome of a game – outweighs other gaming genres. In fact, online gambling has rapidly become the top online diversion for many players. With real stakes on the line, players say that the ‘real world’ aspect adds to the excitement and suspense of any game. However, not all casino sites are legal or trustworthy and Canadians are warned to investigate their options carefully before staking real money online. Trustworthy Canadian online casinos do exist and players should select their gaming platform carefully to ensure a pleasant experience. Games offered at Canadian online casinos include the ever-popular slots, poker and other card games, roulette and all the traditional casino gambling games. Sportsbooks and lottery platforms also enjoy considerable popularity.

Action games

From shoot-em-up mayhem games like ‘Doom’ to the rather charming ‘Last Tango’ where players dance around deadly obstacles or the horror themed ‘Silhoutte’, Canadians seem to love testing their reflexes with online action games. Many games offer free trials, but be warned: at some point, you will find yourself very tempted to take the full package, so never try a game unless you’re planning to buy it – you may find it very frustrating when you reach the limit of the trial package!

Puzzle games

Not everyone is looking for adrenaline fuelled win-or-lose gaming, and for those who prefer to relax while giving themselves a mental challenge, puzzle games are a popular option. Popular games include ‘GeoGuessr’ which drops you into a street-view from Google maps and gets you guessing where on earth you may have ended up, and Wonderputt, a virtual mini-golf course. Tower defence games in which players strategically place defences and then wait to see if they can withstand an onslaught from their ‘enemies’ are also favourites. And of course, there are numerous variants of Tetris and other games where organising elements is the key to success. Alternatively, you can stick to old-fashioned favourites such as Scrabble.

Platform games

Platform games have come a long way since Donkey Kong and Super Mario. Options range from high-tech games with glitzy graphics that take you through a variety of landscapes to the most basic, bare-bones variants. One thing is certain, platform games are addictive and represent a genre that many Canadians turn to in their free time. There are some really good free games available.

Adventure games and Role-Playing Games (RPGs)

Fantasy worlds and situations take us away from the hum-drum and are enormously popular with gamers. Creating one’s own character and leading them through a series of adventures can be extremely compelling – especially when you have the benefit of meeting up with other players, forming alliances or declaring battles. Final Fantasy is still the top RPG, but there is plenty of competition in the form of games such as ‘Elder Scrolls V’, the scary ‘Dark Souls’ or the fantasy-themed ‘Baldur’s Gate’.

Comedy Games

Sometimes, we can use a good laugh, and games like the iconic ‘Angry Birds’ still get laughs thanks to cute animation and challenging play options. Who can forget ‘Plants vs Zombies’ with its kooky zombies and pea-spitting plants? You can even descend into potty humour if that’s what you prefer. Although comedy games stop being all that funny or surprising once you get used to them, they can still be hugely entertaining.

Getting your gaming kicks online – something for everyone

People from around the world are finding that having fun online can be easy, provided you know where to look and are willing to pay for some of the more challenging gaming options. Before paying for anything online, ensure that the payment platform is reputable and secure, and that your personal details are kept safe when you register on online gaming sites. There is a lot of fun to be had, but caution should nonetheless be exercised!