Best slot tournaments for Canadian players September 2024
Feeling competitive? Slots tournaments bring an added thrill to playing online slots. This guide takes you straight to the best free slot tournaments at online casinos in Canada, revealing the biggest prize pool for those who climb the leaderboard.
Best Canadian casinos for slot tournaments
What is a slot tournament?
Slot tournaments are casino events where players compete against each other by playing selected slot games during a specific time period. These can be free slot tournaments or require a buy-in.
Whenever you score a win on a participating slot machine game, this is recorded on the tournament leaderboard. At the end, players who rank highest receive the bigger portion of the prize pool and win real money.
Lower rankings may still receive a smaller share, but this depends on the individual rules of the specific slot tournament.
Features of the best online slots tournaments
The best online casino tournaments offer different kinds of exciting prizes, big cash rewards, and a large variety of participating slots from renowned software providers. This is what you should look for when choosing your favourite online slot tournaments.
💲 Biggest slots tournament prizes | $1.25m - $200m |
🎁 Other slots tournament prizes | Free spins, no deposit bonuses, reloads, raffle prizes |
🎰 Best slots for tournaments | Assassin Moon, Avalon, Buffalo King, Jammin’ Jars, Sugar Rush |
⭐ Top slot tournaments types | Free slot tournaments, buy-in tournaments, sit ‘n go tournaments, survivor tournaments, reloader tournaments |
🏆 Best slots tournaments casino |
How does an online slot tournament work?
Not all online casino slots tournaments follow the same rules, but the basic workings are always the same. You compete against other casino game fans by playing participating games during a preset time period. Top scorers are awarded prizes that can include a large prize pool, smaller cash prizes and other rewards, such as online casino free spins and reload bonuses.
All slots tournaments include a leaderboard, which is the public scoreboard where you can track your position compared to other players. You’ll be competing for the prize pool, which is either awarded entirely to the highest scorer or distributed among the top 20 to 50 players, depending on the specific regulations.
Regulations for slots tournaments vary both according to the online casino and according to the participating games and the software provider. The most important things, such as whether it’s free or you need to buy in, as well as the prize details and how it's paid out, are always clearly laid out in the terms and conditions.
![Cleopatra is an online slot commonly used by casinos in Canada during slots tournaments.](https://images.ctfassets.net/vpd5gtrb1dbp/5uWWO4JOj6prG6f6dKrUi6/fbf8bc0c7f46f94f4b5a20cda97a003c/cleopatra.jpg?q=80)
To take part in online casino tournaments you need to be registered with that gambling site. Unless the casino is offering free slots tournaments with no deposit needed, you’ll need to fund your account before joining the leaderboard.
Each tournament includes a list of participating slots. These can be tied to a specific provider, like Pragmatic Play’s Drops & Wins, or else be chosen by the casino. Most Canada casino tournaments will include titles that are most popular with players, such as Cleopatra, Jammin’ Jars, Razor Shark, and Floating Dragon.
How we rate slots tournaments casinos
We're committed to finding you the best casinos to play online slots tournaments at. Every Canadian gambling site we recommend goes through our 25-step review process to ensure it keeps players safe and partners with recognized payment providers so your money is secure. We only bring you online casinos that offer slot games from leading software developers and are compatible with desktop and mobile devices. We'll also help you claim the best casino bonuses to help give your bankroll a boost.
Online gambling websites to avoid
Some casino sites offering online slots tournaments fail to pass our tests. If we think an operator isn't up to scratch or is unsafe for players, we add it to our list of untrustworthy casinos.
Below is a list of online gambling websites we recommend you avoid if you want to play slots:
Online slot tournaments vs land-based slot tournaments
Casino slot tournaments are a thrilling experience, whether taking place at one of Canada’s renowned land-based casinos or at an online gambling site. Here we’ll go through the advantages and disadvantages of both options to help you understand which version suits you best.
It’s undeniable that tournaments at brick-and-mortar establishments can offer a more immersive and interactive environment. Social butterflies will likely love the option of face-to-face interaction.
However, the reality is that it’s difficult to take part in such tournaments on the spur of the moment, as you will need to plan travel time and maybe even time off work to make it to the best Canadian land-based casinos.
![An image showing a view from right to left of the reels on a slot machine.](https://images.ctfassets.net/vpd5gtrb1dbp/1uTb0kSaUF7bE7s2Sbk0Qc/779ced178734258cf26aeab886a18dc9/slots.jpg?q=80)
Additionally, traditional casinos are limited in terms of tournament schedules. Because they actually require the physical space and on-site human resources to manage the event, such events take place a lot more sporadically than at online casinos, where you’re likely to find several tournaments taking place on the daily.
There’s a lot to be said for the convenience of finding slots tournaments to take part in with the tap of a button, without even the need to dress up or move from your couch. Technological advancements mean that the online gambling experience has made great strides in terms of engagement.
Our recommended online casinos also offer bigger prizes and more variety. Online casino slots tournaments may lack in-person interaction, but they certainly tip the scales in their favour thanks to all these important advantages.
Types of slot tournaments
Canadian online casinos offer a large variety of slots tournaments and jackpots. We cover the most common types you’re likely to encounter below.
Remember, each casino is free to create custom types so we always advise you to check the term and conditions to find out the precise rules of slot tournaments you’re considering entering.
Scheduled tournaments
These are the most common type of slot tournaments, starting and ending on a specific date and time. Online casinos advertise these under the ‘Tournaments’ tab of their main menu, and they can be either free slots tournaments or with an entry fee. To take part you simply sign up and wait for the tournament to kick off.
Buy-in tournaments
Here, you’ll be asked to pay a small entry fee to take part. It’s very rare for this to exceed $20, and it usually contributes to the prize pool. As soon as you pay the registration fee you’ll be allocated credits for spins on participating slots. Some casinos offer high-roller tournaments with higher buy-ins.
Sit n’ go tournaments
These are gaining popularity with Canadian players because you don’t need to wait for a scheduled time to play. A number of tournaments are offered 24/7, each starting as soon as a preset number of players sign up.
PCH slot tournaments
This is an acronym for Publisher’s Clearing House, a marketing company that hosts free slot tournaments and buy-ins. Prizes are funded by the company’s subscription services and can go up to $10,000.
Comped tournaments
You don’t choose these slots tournaments, they choose you. They are accessible only to players who have spent a specific bankroll at the casino, or who have been playing for a long time.
Reloader tournaments
Joined a slot tournament and not performing as well as you’d hoped? Reloader tournaments let you buy into another round and start from scratch if you’ve run out of credits.
Extender tournaments
These offer another opportunity to improve your position on the leaderboard if you need that extra push. You can boost your results by buying an add-on that will skyrocket your chances of winning.
Survivor tournaments
Strictly if you’re super competitive, these online casino tournaments reward the last player standing. The gameplay is divided into different rounds, with the lowest-ranking players eliminated at the end of every round.
One-shot tournaments
Another one for casino game players who thrive on adrenalin, as you’ll only be given one try to qualify for the next round in the tournament. Extending and reloading are not allowed in this type of slot tournament.
Freeroll slots tournaments
These are the unicorns of the world of online casino tournaments as you’ll be able to compete for large prizes without needing to pay anything. These tournaments typically operate within a scheduled time limit.
Slot tournament tips and strategy
Slots tournaments depend primarily on luck, and it’s always good to keep this fact in mind.
That said, taking the time to understand the dynamics of a typical leaderboard, as well as how prizes are distributed and which positions are worth striving for, can help you stay in the game longer.
- 1
Understand the slot tournament rules
This is solid advice when playing any kind of online casino games, but especially so for slot tournaments and jackpots. Every casino and tournament comes with individual slot tournament rules. Make sure you understand how prizes are awarded, whether there are any special conditions to the gameplay, and if you need to take specific actions at set times.
- 2
Remember to use up all your credits
Whether you’re playing free slot tournaments or not, at the start of the gameplay you’ll be given a number of spins. You’ll be using these every time you hit the spin button, so make sure you use every single spin available to you. A wasted spin is a missed opportunity on the leaderboard.
- 3
Stay focused and don’t stop spinning
The premise of every online casino tournament is the same: those who land the biggest number of wins on the reels are the most likely to win prizes. You can’t land a win if you’re not spinning, so during your time in the game keep your focus, your fingers ready, and get as many points as possible.
- 4
Bet across all paylines
Every time you can bet across all paylines, do so. These are the bets that have the potential to land you bigger wins if you hit a good combo. Bigger wins translate into more points and a higher position on the leaderboard.
- 5
Bet high
Following on the same reasoning as above, go for the max. bet if allowed. During tournaments you’re using the casino spins, rather than having to replenish the ones you pay for. Every player receives the same number of spins, so it doesn’t make sense to ‘waste’ any of your spins on smaller bets.
- 6
Don’t get distracted watching the leaderboard
The temptation to keep one eye on the reels and another on the leaderboard is strong, because you’re probably wondering if anyone is beating you and what you can do about it. Forget the other players and concentrate on your game.
- 7
Familiarize yourself with the terminology
Before starting, make sure you know what terms like ‘extender’, ‘reload’ and other phrases mean so you don’t waste time trying to figure out what’s happening while others are climbing up the leaderboard.
Slots tournaments are a great way to enjoy online casino games, but don’t get carried away and spend more than you can afford. As always, it’s crucial to gamble responsibly. Slot tournaments are there to have fun, so don’t allow your competitive streak to get the better of you and lead you into unwise choices.
FAQs
Are slot tournaments free?
Some slot tournaments are free, while others require you to pay a small fee. It all depends on the online casino and game provider. Even if an entry fee is required, it’s unlikely to cost more than $20, which will help fund the prize pool.
Is there any strategy to slot tournaments?
Yes, slot tournament tips can help you improve your chances of playing for as long as possible. Whether you win or not ultimately depends on luck. However, following sensible strategies, like becoming familiar with tournament rules, means you’re likely to have a better sporting chance.
Are slot tournaments worth it?
If you enjoy competitive gameplay, slot tournaments are definitely worth your time. We advise you check over our recommended list of best casino tournaments to understand which ones suit your style of play and bankroll, as well as which ones carry the biggest prize pools.
How do slot tournaments work?
Slot tournaments are casino events where players compete against each other when playing participating slots. Slots tournaments work with defined starting and ending times and can include slots from one provider or multiple. When the tournament finishes, prizes are awarded to the highest scorers.
How do I win points in slots tournaments?
Points are awarded every time you score a win on the reels of a participating slot. These points are shared on the leaderboard, so you can keep track of your positioning while also keeping an eye on how your competitors are doing.
What's the secret to winning slot tournaments?
There is no big secret, however, our slots tournaments tips and strategy can maximize your chances of performing well in online casino tournaments. These include the basics, such as understanding the rules and staying focused, as well as using all your casino credits.
Are slot tournaments all luck?
Yes, slot tournaments depend largely on luck, in much the same way as when you’re playing slots on your own at online casinos. That said, experienced players do follow a slots tournament strategy to help them stay in the game as long as possible.
Are slot tournaments rigged?
No. The slot tournaments we recommend are organized by licensed, reputable online casinos in collaboration with renowned software providers. If you play at one of our recommended online casinos you are guaranteed a safe and positive experience, with provably fair games and randomly generated wins.
How do you get into a slot tournament?
To find tournaments at your favourite online casino, tap the ‘Tournaments’ tab in the menu. For freeroll tournaments slots, simply register your name, pick up your spins, and wait for the games to start. If a buy-in is required, you’ll need to pay before playing.
![Ramona Depares](https://images.ctfassets.net/vpd5gtrb1dbp/6DbX0yBu5IcgHYMVqtwkQE/d4c695acb0f22eabcdeb5b6bac04dfbc/ramona-author.jpeg.png?q=80&w=150)
Written by Ramona Depares
Ramona Depares is an award-winning journalist focused on cultural and entertainment related content. Based in the Mediterranean gaming hub of Malta, she has taken a deep interest in gambling related news since the earliest days and has seen the global landscape evolve. Ramona specialises in the legal and regulatory aspects of gaming across multiple jurisdictions, with specific interest in NZ and US markets. She is also a best-selling author of fiction and non-fiction books.