For many gamers, nothing beats the excitement of unpacking the latest games console and trying it out for the first time. However, if your digital entertainment buzz comes from more diverse options, then you’re probably someone who doesn’t follow the crowd, and you’re always looking for a new type of gaming experience.
Playing recently released games on the latest technology is always fun, but there are so many other ways to feed your gaming fix. With options such as online casinos with thousands of games to choose from and esports leagues to compete in, Canadians have a huge selection of digital experiences to match their interests and discover new entertainment options.
Here are some of the diverse digital experiences for Canadians:
Esports leagues
You can join local and global esports leagues on your console or PC to enjoy the challenge of solo or multiplayer games such as League of Legends, Fortnite and Rocket League. Esports is a big business in Canada, with major esports companies such as Enthusiast Gaming and OverActive Media being based in the country. A new esports stadium is due to open in Toronto in 2025 to host esports events, bringing a state-of-the-art, 7,000-seater venue to the esports fans in Toronto.
Online casinos
Online gambling became legal in Ontario in 2022, with several other provinces also passing laws so that Canadians can play online casinos through regulated companies. The online casino scene has grown rapidly over the last three years, with players enjoying the opportunity to try games such as Blackjack, Roulette and Poker from their mobile or any other device. Online casino technology is getting more advanced, with better graphics, immersive VR environments and gamification features.
You can choose between simpler iGaming formats with casino slots, or if you like to play strategy games, Poker is a thrilling game to try once you’ve built up an understanding of the rules.
Mobile gaming
More Canadians are getting interested in playing mobile games in addition to playing on consoles, with games like Block Blast! and Pokémon TCG Pocket being the most popular downloads for Canadians in 2025 so far.
The convenience of being able to play games from smartphones and offering a wide range of game types has brought new players into the mobile gaming culture. From problem-solving puzzles to simulation games, the quality and availability of mobile gaming options have grown significantly, and many games are free to download.
Cloud gaming
You no longer require an expensive console to enjoy playing video games as you can stream games to your mobile, laptop or tablet. You can even stream games onto smart TVs to add to the excitement by playing on the big screen. All you need is a good internet connection, and some games can be controlled with a keyboard or mouse, while others can support controllers but don’t require hardware like Xbox consoles.
VR gaming
VR headsets have brought a whole new dimension to gaming, with players able to try more realistic game environments in 3D worlds and without the need for an actual console. As well as using them in video games, VR headsets can be used to experience a real-life casino experience or can take you on a tour of famous places around the world that are too far or too expensive to travel to.
For example, you could take a tour around the Eiffel Tower, the Egyptian Pyramids or even walk along the Machu Picchu or the Great Wall of China. You can take part in fun, location-based scavenger hunts – the options are growing all of the time!
Virtual fitness and wellbeing
The popularity of virtual fitness platforms is growing, with solutions like Peloton offering virtual bike rides with scenic surroundings in places like Canadian national parks. Cyclists can compete in challenges and competitions without leaving their homes, while working on their fitness in a convenient, time-efficient way.
Virtual wellbeing platforms are also growing, with online meditation and mindfulness classes accessible over the internet. For remote workers who do not have the social interaction of working with colleagues, joining virtual classes can provide a different type of social experience to enjoy different hobbies and interests.
You can also play specialist games on consoles like the Switch, such as Fitness Boxing, designed to help get you more active while having a little more fun.
Virtual concerts
For music lovers, seeing your favourite artist at a live concert might not be possible due to location or cost. However, with virtual concerts powered through live streams or VR concerts, you can feel like you are almost part of the audience at music venues around the world. This takes you to a whole new level compared to simply listening to music or watching a past performance on TV.
It’s not just concerts either, PlayStation offered an experience on their PS4 console, where you could even watch live matches at the FIFA World Cup. It was literally like sitting in the crowd, but from the comfort of your own home.
These are some of the most exciting and diverse digital experiences that Canadians can access with the power of the latest technology. Whether you’re planning a fun night in with your favourite console or want to try new hobbies at home, your options are endless.
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