Canada

Large majority of Ontarians who gamble are aware of the risks and take steps to protect themselves: Survey

Published

6 years ago

January 29, 2020

The Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) is delivering outreach programs across Ontario to raise awareness of risks associated with gambling and how people can protect themselves. These public education initiatives are supported by a new RGC survey of Ontarians that explores attitudes and behaviours about gambling.

RGC teams are interacting with people in various community settings, including colleges, universities and sporting venues, to highlight that gambling always carries risk and the value of making a plan about limits prior to gambling.

“The good news emerging from our survey is that the large majority of Ontarians who gamble are aware of the potential harms and take steps to protect themselves,” says Shelley White, CEO of RGC. “However, the findings also reveal how easy it can be to get carried away in the moment and underscore the need to protect yourself from the risks. Our programs communicate specific messages depending on the age group. These include the importance of setting time and money limits before gambling, to avoid emotional or impulsive decision making.”

The Community Outreach program involves an interactive game called Reaction Lab – a digital experience that simulates how the brain responds to stimulus, similar to when a person gambles.

There is also a team visiting colleges and universities across the province to educate young adults about how gambling can heighten emotional states, making it difficult to make informed decisions while gambling. This bilingual interactive program is called Check Your (Re)flex / Testez Vos (Ré)flexes. Similar to the Community Outreach program aimed at all age groups, this youth-focused advocacy shares signs of problem gambling common to young people and offers important tips such as setting and sticking to money and time limits.

Key survey findings

RGC’s new survey, which polled 1,411 Ontarian gamblers last fall, sheds light on attitudes, emotional responses and behaviours related to gambling.

13.6 per cent of gamblers surveyed said at some point they gambled money they could not afford to lose.
One in three (33 per cent) did not always consider the amount of money they were prepared to lose before they gambled.
31 per cent indicated they had spent more time gambling than they could afford at some point in the past six months.
49 per cent did not always consider the amount of time they were prepared to gamble prior to playing.

Key findings related to young adults:

The survey suggests young adults (18 to 24) are more vulnerable to the emotional rush of gambling, raising the threat level of high-risk behaviours.

58 per cent said they gambled because it makes them feel good at least sometimes.
One in five (19.9 per cent) gambled to cope with depression or nervousness at least sometimes.
33 per cent gambled to get a “high” feeling at least sometimes.
Over a quarter (26.5 per cent) gambled to forget their worries at least sometimes.
35 per cent gambled to cheer up when in a bad mood at least sometimes.

Other research shows 7.1 per cent of young adults have some type of gambling problem and nearly eight-in-10 Ontarians aged 18 to 24 (76.9 per cent) gambled in the past year.

Plan before you play

One of RGC’s key outreach messages for those who gamble is the value of having a plan in place prior to playing to manage potential risks before they appear. This involves setting strict loss and win limits and allocating a set amount of time in advance. When any of these planned limits are reached, the appropriate/best/ response is to walk away.

Part of a solid plan includes taking frequent breaks. It’s important to pause, reflect, and re-evaluate time or money spent. Setting a phone alarm makes for an easy reminder to take a break from gambling.

Another important message, particularly for young adults, is to be aware that one’s emotional state can impact decisions while gambling. Limiting alcohol or drugs, not gambling when depressed or worried and not using gambling as a way to feel better are all important ways to minimize risk.

Young people can gain valuable insights into the risks associated with gambling by visiting CheckYourReflex.ca and TestezVosRéflexes.ca

Methodology

Between November 28^th and December 12^th, 2019, the Responsible Gambling Council conducted a province-wide survey of Ontarian adults aged 18+. With the help of Delvinia’s AskingCanadians panel, a total of 2,011 online surveys were completed (including a sample of 1411 gamblers). The survey data was weighted to reflect Ontario’s age and gender distribution, according to most recent Census data. Based on a 95% confidence level, the survey results have a margin of error +/- 2.19%.

About RGC

The Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) is an independent non-profit organization dedicated to problem gambling prevention. RGC works to reduce gambling risks by creating and delivering innovative awareness and information programs, for a wide range of different groups including youth, young adults and the general public.

Barbarossa Dragon Empire

Peter & Sons Expands Ontario Footprint with Major Casino Time Content Deal

Published

5 days ago

January 6, 2026

Wladimir P.

peter-&-sons-expands-ontario-footprint-with-major-casino-time-content-deal

Peter & Sons, the innovative iGaming studio known for its signature artistic flair, has secured a landmark content agreement with Casino Time, a leading homegrown operator in Ontario.

Delivered through Light & Wonder’s premier aggregation platform, the partnership brings Peter & Sons’ library of indie-inspired titles to CasinoTime.ca. This move aligns with Casino Time’s strategy to consolidate its market-leading position as it expands its offerings from slots, live casino, and bingo into a soon-to-launch sportsbook.

Pushing Boundaries in the Ontario Market

Ontario has rapidly evolved into one of the most dynamic and regulated iGaming jurisdictions in North America. Through this deal, local players gain access to Peter & Sons’ most successful recent launches and seasonal hits:

Barbarossa Dragon Empire: The high-stakes third installment in the studio’s flagship franchise. This Asian-themed sequel features the “Multiplier Cannon” and a massive 40,000x win potential.
Zombie Road: A post-apocalyptic adventure on a 5×3 grid with 243 ways to win, featuring cascading reels and persistent multipliers that can reach 20,000x.
Bad Santa: A subversive, gothic-horror take on the holiday season, utilizing a Scatter Pays system and “Multiplier Jumps” for a high-volatility experience.

A Shared Vision for High-Art Gaming

Peter & Sons has carved out a unique niche in the industry by blending meticulous game mechanics with world-class art and storytelling. Partnering with Casino Time—an operator celebrated for its Canadian heritage and focus on premium player experiences—marks a significant milestone for the studio’s 2026 roadmap.

“Ontario has long been a major focus for us, and partnering with Casino Time marks an exciting milestone for our expansion,” said Yann Bautista, Founder and Commercial Director at Peter & Sons. “Their commitment to top-tier entertainment aligns perfectly with our bold vision.”

Jeffrey Holmes, COO of Casino Time, added: “We are thrilled to partner with Peter & Sons. Their distinctive artistic style and highly engaging gameplay represent a major step in expanding the premium entertainment we offer to our players.”

The post Peter & Sons Expands Ontario Footprint with Major Casino Time Content Deal appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

Barbarossa Dragon Empire

Peter & Sons Bolsters Ontario Presence with Landmark Casino Time Content Agreement

Published

5 days ago

January 6, 2026

GamingAmericas.com

peter-&-sons-bolsters-ontario-presence-with-landmark-casino-time-content-agreement

Innovative iGaming studio Peter & Sons is set to enhance its position in Ontario after signing a landmark content agreement with Casino Time, one of the region’s most respected operators.

The agreement, delivered in collaboration with Light & Wonder, represents a natural move for either party, with the operator’s flagship site CasinoTime.ca offering a broad selection of casino games including slots, live casino, and bingo. There are also plans afoot for a Casino Time-powered sportsbook as the site looks to consolidate its market-leading position and diversify its content offering.

Ontario has fast emerged as one of North America’s most dynamic, progressive iGaming regions. The state’s players can now enjoy a range of Peter & Sons fan favorites including the recent flagship launch Barbarossa Dragon Empire – the third installment in the popular series – along with seasonal offering Bad Santa and the undead antics of Zombie Road.

Renowned for its catalogue of indie-inspired creations, offbeat characters, and meticulously crafted game worlds, Peter & Sons continues to push boundaries in slot design and entertainment. By joining forces with Casino Time – a platform celebrated for its proud Canadian heritage and commitment to delivering superior experiences – the studio looks forward to building a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship.

Yann Bautista, Peter & Sons Founder and Commercial Director, said: “Ontario has long been a major focus for us, and partnering up with Casino Time marks an exciting milestone for our expansion in the region. Their commitment to delivering top-tier entertainment aligns perfectly with our bold vision, and we’re looking forward to sharing some of our most beloved titles with the Casino Time’s audience.”

Jeffrey Holmes, Chief Operating Officer of Casino Time added: “We are thrilled to partner with Peter & Sons, a studio renowned for its distinctive artistic style and highly engaging gameplay. As we continue to cement our leading position in the Ontario market, this agreement represents a major step in expanding the premium entertainment we offer to players.”

The post Peter & Sons Bolsters Ontario Presence with Landmark Casino Time Content Agreement appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.

Canada

Group from Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe and Great Canadian Entertainment Announce Agreement for the Acquisition of Elements Casino Chilliwack

Published

2 months ago

November 12, 2025

GamingAmericas.com

group-from-ts’elxweyeqw-tribe-and-great-canadian-entertainment-announce-agreement-for-the-acquisition-of-elements-casino-chilliwack

Great Canadian Entertainment and a consortium group of certain communities from the Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe, through an entity affiliated with Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe Management Ltd. (the “Ts’elxwéyeqw Group”), announced that on November 7th, 2025, they entered into a definitive agreement for the purchase by the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group from Great Canadian Entertainment of Elements Casino Chilliwack, one of the premier gaming and entertainment destinations in the Fraser Valley region of British Columbia.

The Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe constitute seven First Nation communities and are the First People of the Chilliwack River watershed. The transaction represents a transformational milestone for the communities within the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group.

Elements Casino Chilliwack serves guests across the Fraser Valley and is Chilliwack’s top destination for gaming and entertainment, featuring over 300 slots, live and electronic table games, bingo, dining, live entertainment and more.

The closing of the transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions and the receipt of regulatory and other approvals. Under the terms of the definitive agreement, Great Canadian Entertainment will continue to provide transitional services and support to the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group for a period following closing.

“This purchase marks an exciting milestone for our Nations and for the entire territory. By coming together in partnership, we are not only investing in a strong business opportunity, but also in the future of our people. The revenues generated through this acquisition will help strengthen our communities, create new opportunities, and ensure our Nations continue to play a leading role in the local economy. Additionally, we believe that local community-based ownership of Elements Casino Chilliwack will further strengthen the broader Fraser Valley community and economy. It’s a proud moment that reflects how Indigenous leadership and collaboration can build a stronger, more inclusive future for everyone,” said Chief David Jimmie, Chief of Squiala First Nation and President of Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe Management Ltd.

“We are very excited to have entered into this agreement with the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group. We have had the privilege of being part of the Chilliwack community since we opened Elements Casino Chilliwack in 2012, and we believe that under the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group’s stewardship, the business will begin an exciting new chapter. For the team members and guests of Elements Casino Chilliwack, and the local community, we can think of no better owner for the business. We look forward to the closing and then working with the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group team during the transition period,” said Matt Anfinson, CEO of Great Canadian Entertainment.

McCarthy Tétrault LLP is acting as legal advisor and KPMG Corporate Finance Inc. is acting as financial advisor to the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group. McMillan LLP is acting as legal advisor to Great Canadian Entertainment.

The post Group from Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe and Great Canadian Entertainment Announce Agreement for the Acquisition of Elements Casino Chilliwack appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.