With ice hockey seemingly ingrained in Canadian DNA, it’s perhaps unsurprising that more and more hockey-themed casino games have been popping up on internet gambling platforms year on end; not only can the nation not get enough of this fast-paced and exhilarating sport, but fascinated fans from all over the globe are switching to these amusements to immerse themselves in the thrill of the rink – and maybe win big, too.
We’ve selected some of the best hockey-themed casino games for NHL fans either available or coming soon to Canadian real money casinos which offer that unique blend of excitement, graphics and the idea that anything is possible.
Why Are Hockey-Themed Casino Games So Popular?
Sports make up a big part of many online casino games and slots. Compared to other themes, the exhilarating nature and high-quality graphics used in sports-themed games make it exceptionally hard to get exhausted. Pair this with just how loved hockey is by fans around the world, and it’s not hard to see just why so many people are spending their free time on hockey-themed casino amusements.
For Canadians specifically, hockey-themed casino games offer them a much more personal connection. With ice hockey the number one sport in the country, these amusements offer Canadians the chance to extend their love of the sport beyond the rink. For the estimated 600,000 hockey players in the country, games like these enable them to enjoy their favorite sport – without the added pressure of viewers at the side of the rink!
Last but not least, hockey-themed casino games are arguably so popular due to their possibility of a big payout. What better way to potentially win big while immersing yourself in the excitement of the best sport in the world?
NHL-Branded Games
For hockey fans, nothing is bigger than the NHL. BetMGM’s decision to get a slice of this excitement two years ago led to a variety of NHL-branded casino games including blackjack, roulette and baccarat. With these amusements, players get the chance to ‘drop the puck’ in an immersive ice hockey experience with three-dimensional renderings and never-before-seen animations. All of the NHL-themed amusements have a ‘go live’ button which takes players directly onto the ice… and to a live dealer.
NHL blackjack places players around a table that’s inside an area skybox; players can then virtually move between different seats. NHL roulette features interactive game results, full statistics and realistic ball movements, while NHL baccarat allows players to experience the game similar to within a live casino – of course, highlighted by many of the game’s same features. These amusements enable NHL fans to take their dedication to the sport up another level, immersing them in engaging gameplay in a new compelling way.
Hockey Slots
There are also a multitude of slots available online to immerse hockey fans in the excitement of the game, all while giving them the chance to win some real money. One popular hockey-themed slot game is Break Away, a 5-reel slot that offers gamblers 234 ways to win! Complete with photorealistic graphics, referees, chants from fans and even ice-cleaning machines, this slot will take you to a hockey game without having to leave your home.
Another well-known hockey-themed slot game is Playtech’s Ice Hockey creation. Themed throughout with NHL symbols, this is another game for those hockey fans who like nothing more than keeping up with the drama of trading players and smashing through league tables. This game allows gamblers to become part of their very own sports team, before competing across 5 reels and 15 paylines. Expect colorful hockey sticks, excellent graphics and the very best visuals out there.
International Themed Hockey Games
For many hockey fans, the international showdowns between teams make the sport even more exciting. There are a few casino games out there that bank on this interesting aspect, allowing players to choose from a selection of national teams to change the game’s symbols and potential payouts. There’s also a ‘Pass the Puck’ feature on some of these amusements, where the puck is passed between team members and each pass adds another multiplier to the player’s stake.
How to Stay Safe While Playing Hockey Casino Games
While the thrill of playing hockey-themed casino games is undeniable, it’s also important to keep yourself safe while gambling and to play responsibly. You can do this by adhering to the following tips:
- Don’t play hockey-themed casino games when intoxicated
- Don’t gamble when you’re anxious or depressed
- Don’t gamble in order to replace income
- Take regular breaks between each game
- Recognize the important signs of gambling addiction
Final Word
The thrill of ice hockey and the thrill of online gambling go hand in hand. With a variety of great hockey-themed games for NHL fans and ice hockey enthusiasts, it truly is possible to get your slice of the rink – outside the rink doors.
