Ontario, Canada is a hotbed of innovation when it comes to gaming startups, and the industry is flourishing more than ever before. From exciting new gaming technologies to complex VR experiences for 3D gaming, Ontario’s gaming startups are pushing the boundaries of what we imagine technologies can do today.
These startups we discuss in this blog post are driving the gaming industry forward, and we’d like to take a closer look at the game-changing innovations they’re developing because these innovations later migrate to other industries and change our lives.
45% of Canadian gamers play online or mobile games. So, whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, knowing about these inventive new companies will give you a broader view on your perspectives as a games consumer, and a deeper understanding of the technologies developed.
Leading Gaming Startups in Ontario
These innovative gaming startups in Ontario, Canada are revolutionizing gameplay mechanics, storytelling, and player engagement. The most important innovative moves taken by the newest startup companies include
- free-to-play social and mobile games, creating immersive experiences for players across multiple platforms
- social and casual games
- enabling players to interact and play party games with friends, fostering social connections
- cloud-based live video broadcasting social network, elevating the level of engagement with creators’ audiences
The list of Ontario-based startups below gives more details on each company.
CasinosHunter
CasinosHunter is a well known Canadian online casino reviewing platform that opens the new section localized for players from Toronto. At the CasinosHunter website you will find the reviews of top Ontario casino apps to play.
Blaze
A fast-growing gaming and entertainment technology startup based in Toronto. Blaze offers a real-money wagering product that combines elements of casual and social gaming, providing players with a unique and differentiated experience.
Brain Racers
An eSports platform that celebrates brain athletes. With a core MMO cognitive race, Brain Racers allows players from all walks of life to showcase their cognitive abilities through engaging challenges that test their mental skills and basic knowledge.
WagerMatch (Pre-Launch)
WagerMatch aims to be the premier platform for head-to-head skill-gaming globally. Starting with chess, users can create accounts, deposit funds, and play fast-paced chess games against like-minded opponents at the same skill level. WagerMatch prioritizes fair play and a community-driven approach.
LUCA Theory
LUCA Theory is a collective intelligence engine that supports communities, organizations, and teams in making better decisions. With a focus on collaboration, conviction, innovation, and intelligence, LUCA Theory empowers decision-makers to navigate uncertainty successfully.
AOPINCHUK IT
A game development company based in Oakville. AOPINCHUK IT specializes in online gaming and is committed to creating engaging and entertaining experiences for players.
Big Viking Games
Founded in 2011 by Albert Lai and Greg Thomson, Big Viking Games is a game development studio based in Ontario. Specializing in free-to-play social and mobile games using HTML5 technologies, the company has a portfolio of three games and is accessible on the web, Facebook, and mobile devices. They acquired Zynga’s game ‘YoVille’ and renamed it ‘YoWorld’.
WGAMES
WGAMES is an independent video game development studio that focuses on social and casual games, including arcade and casino games. Their titles, such as “Neverland Casino” and “Lurking in the Shadows,” offer free-to-play subscriptions and are available on platforms like Windows, PlayStation, Android, and Steam.
Gaggle Fun
Gaggle Fun is a video-chat-enabled gaming platform that allows users to play party games and have adventures with friends. Their platform offers a variety of games, including party games, escape rooms, and card games. Some of their popular titles include “Goose Goose Duck,” “Drawtini,” and “Mime.”
NerdGames
NerdGames is a mobile game developer specializing in casual games. They focus on mini AOS games and have developed a scientific game called “StuntCopter” for iOS devices.
Stage TEN
Stage TEN is a cloud-based live video broadcasting social network. Founded in 2013, they provide a one-stop solution for content creators to build and distribute live interactive shows. Their platform is currently in beta as of September 2016.
Support for Local Talent
Due to the recent changes and improvements in Ontario legislation in terms of gaming and accompanying niches, the Ontario startup scene now seems to be more supportive of local talents. Aspiring game developers in the province have access to a wealth of educational programs, mentorship opportunities, and events designed to nurture their skills and creativity.
One inspiring aspect of Ontario’s gaming industry today is its support of formal education. Local universities and colleges offer specialized programs in game design, providing students with the knowledge and tools they need to excel in the industry.
The region also hosts various events and competitions that serve as platforms for showcasing emerging talent.
Impact On Other Industries
The impact of gaming startups in Ontario extends beyond the realm of entertainment and has the potential to revolutionize various industries. Technological innovations developed and refined through the gaming industry can be harnessed to benefit other sectors.
One notable example is the advancements in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies. These immersive technologies, initially popularized in gaming, have found applications in fields such as healthcare, education, and architecture.
By creating realistic and interactive experiences, gaming startups have paved the way for new possibilities in training simulations, therapeutic treatments, and immersive learning environments.
Ontario’s gaming ecosystem serves as a catalyst for technological advancements that have far-reaching effects beyond the gaming world, contributing to the overall progress and development of various sectors.
