By David Burke
May 6th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Nowadays, the choice of games that are available to players can satisfy everyone’s needs.
From shooters and sports games to puzzles and online slots, the worldwide market is full of options. And Canada being among the 10 biggest gaming markets in the world, let’s take a look at the most popular video games played in the Great White North.
Fortnite
When Fortnite was released in 2017, it took the world by storm. Canadian amateurs and professionals also flocked to this free-to-play battle royale video game. While Fortnite Battle Royale became a cultural phenomenon, there are two other modes that players can opt for, Fortnite: Save the World and Fortnite Creative.
Online wagering has a growing market share. It appears to be what people are looking for.
Moreover, the game’s art style, gameplay, and progression system were well-received by the critics. Its popularity is further increased by various promotions like Fortnite-themed clothing, Fortnite-based Nerf blasters, and even Funko Pop! figurines, as well as the fact that it can be played on various platforms, including Microsoft Windows, macOS, Nintendo Switch, PS4 and PS5, and Xbox One and Series X/S.
PlayerUnknown’s Battleground
Another multiplayer battle royale game that is popular in Canada is PlayerUnknown’s Battleground. Also known as PUBG, it is one of the best-selling and most-played games in the world. Available on iOS, Android, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Stadia, the game’s objective is to get rid of other players and be the last surviving player or team. The safe area is decreased over time, just like in Fortnite. While PUBG has been banned in certain countries like Pakistan and India for being too violent and addictive, it is widely available to Canadians.
Apex Legends
After the success that PUBG and Fortnite had, EA decided to try its hand in the battle royale arena as well. In 2019, Apex Legends was released on Windows, Xbox One, and PS4 to positive reviews. The Nintendo Switch version followed in March 2021 while Android and iOS versions are expected to be released in 2022. Playing in teams of two or three, participants look for weapons and supplies that will help them defeat their opponents.
Dota 2
In terms of online multiplayer battle arena games, Dota 2 is dominating the field despite the fact that it came out in 2013. Almost a decade later and Canadians are still crazy about this game. What is more, Dota 2 is very popular, although it is only available on Windows, Linux, and macOS. The game requires plenty of strategizing as the goal is to destroy the other team’s base, aka the Ancient. Each team consists of five players whose characters have unique skills and abilities that need to be used together in order to win.
League of Legends
Released in 2009 for Microsoft Windows, League of Legends is also a multiplayer online battle arena game that has gained a cult following. Since then, the macOS version was also released in 2013. Similar to Dota 2, there are two teams of five players that battle each other, collect experience points, and purchase items to defeat their opponents. League of Legends is often considered to be the largest e-sport on the planet, as there are 12 leagues on the international competitive scene.
Minecraft
Although released in 2011, Minecraft has consistently been among the most popular games of the past decade and is currently the best-selling video game of all time. This sandbox game lets players explore and build a blocky, pixelated world. Minecraft has a few game modes, including survival mode where players have to build shelters as well as survive mob attacks, falls, suffocation, drowning, starvation, and other events. Creative, adventure, spectator, and hardcore modes are also available.
Online casino games
In addition to classic video games, online casino games are also popular in Canada. And since there is a wide variety of out-of-the-state casinos in the country, it’s always advisable to look for review websites like CasinoTopsOnline that list the best online casinos in Canada. That way players can find not only reputable spots for playing but also a huge array of games available. From baccarat and roulette to live poker and online slots that come in various themes, Canadians turn to these games as they are not only fun but a way to earn some money as well. Plus, the winnings are not taxed.
Mahjong
On the other hand, there are also players looking for something more casual, which is why online Mahjong is also a popular game. The reasons are quite simple – it is free, it doesn’t require any special gaming equipment, and anyone with basic computer skills can play it. Based on the famous Chinese board game, there are different levels that allow players to progress and keep it interesting.
Some of the Backgammon boards are works of art reflecting their long history.
Backgammon
Finally, backgammon is another game that has many fans in Canada. About 5,000 years old, this game has been adapted so that it can easily be played online for free. Strategizing is key to winning, no matter which version players choose. Furthermore, certain aspects of the game can be changed in order to suit the player. There is also the option of playing against the computer, which can help players hone their skills.
From MMORPGs through online casinos, and all the way to board games, Canadians enjoy all sorts of games. Did your favorite make the list?
