Microgaming is one of the longest-established names in online casino software. Founded in 1994 and now operating under the Apricot Investments corporate structure, the provider is known for a broad slot catalogue and a progressive jackpot network that includes titles like Mega Moolah. For Canadian players, Microgaming games are distributed through multiple operators, but availability depends on licensing, market access, and the specific operator’s library.
This guide explains what Microgaming offers, how its games work, and what you should verify before playing at any casino that lists Microgaming titles.
Microgaming at a Glance
| Founded | 1994 |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Isle of Man |
| Corporate Entity | Apricot Investments (parent company); Games Global (distribution brand) |
| Content Types | Slots, progressive jackpots, table games (Gold series), branded titles |
| Known For | Progressive jackpot network, legacy slot catalogue, early online casino platform development |
| Notable Series/Titles | Mega Moolah, Thunderstruck II, Immortal Romance, Book of Oz, Jurassic Park: Gold |
| Progressive Network | Shared jackpot pools across participating operators; availability varies by jurisdiction |
| Mobile Support | HTML5 for most recent titles; some legacy games may not be optimised |
| Naming Note | Microgaming branding still appears in casino lobbies; corporate entity is Apricot Investments; distribution handled by Games Global |
Microgaming, Apricot Investments, and Games Global: What’s the Difference?
One of the most common points of confusion for players is the relationship between Microgaming, Apricot Investments, and Games Global. Here’s how they connect:
Microgaming was the original brand name for the software provider founded in 1994. The company developed early online casino software and built a reputation for slot games and progressive jackpots.
Apricot Investments is the current corporate entity that owns the Microgaming intellectual property and game catalogue. The rebrand occurred as part of a corporate restructuring, but the Microgaming name continues to appear in casino lobbies and game filters.
Games Global is the distribution brand used to manage content partnerships and operator relationships. When you see “Games Global” mentioned in operator terms or game catalogues, it refers to the same content library historically associated with Microgaming.
In practice, Canadian players will still see “Microgaming” listed as a provider filter in most casino lobbies. The corporate changes don’t affect gameplay, but they do explain why you might encounter different names when reading operator terms or checking game credits.
Canada-Specific NoteMicrogaming titles are not universally available across Canada. Availability depends on the operator’s licensing, market access, and provincial regulations. In Ontario, for example, only operators registered with iGaming Ontario (iGO) and licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) can legally offer real-money games to Ontario residents. In other provinces, players may access offshore operators that list Microgaming games, but these sites are not regulated by Canadian provincial authorities.
A Brief Timeline: Microgaming’s Role in Online Casino Software
Microgaming has been part of the online gambling industry since its early days. Here are a few key milestones based on publicly available corporate announcements and industry reporting:
- 1994: Microgaming founded; developed early online casino software
- Early 2000s: Development of progressive jackpot network, including the Mega Moolah series
- Mid-2000s: Expansion of slot catalogue and introduction of branded content based on film and TV licences
- 2010s: Transition to HTML5 for mobile compatibility; continued growth of jackpot network
- 2020s: Corporate restructuring under Apricot Investments; distribution managed by Games Global
Microgaming’s Game Portfolio
Slots
Microgaming’s slot catalogue is divided into several categories:
- Classic Slots: Three-reel games with straightforward mechanics, often featuring traditional symbols like fruits, bars, and sevens. Examples include Break da Bank Again and Couch Potato.
- Video Slots: Five-reel games with multiple paylines, bonus features, and thematic elements. Popular titles include Thunderstruck II, Immortal Romance, and Avalon II.
- Branded Slots: Games based on licensed properties, such as Jurassic Park: Gold and Game of Thrones. Availability of branded titles can vary by region due to licensing restrictions.
Progressive jackpots
Microgaming’s progressive jackpot network is one of its defining features. Here’s how it works:
- Shared Pools: Progressive jackpots are funded by a small percentage of each bet placed on participating games across multiple operators. This creates a shared pool that grows until a player wins.
- Jackpot Tiers: Some games, like Mega Moolah, offer multiple jackpot tiers (Mini, Minor, Major, and Mega). Each tier has a different seed amount and win frequency.
- Operator Variability: The displayed jackpot amount can differ between operators depending on how the jackpot feed is configured and whether the operator participates in the network.
- Contribution Terms: Bonus funds may not contribute to jackpot eligibility, or they may be subject to restrictions. Always check the operator’s bonus terms before playing progressive games with bonus money.
Table games
Microgaming’s table game offering includes:
- Blackjack Variants: Classic blackjack, European blackjack, and multi-hand versions.
- Roulette Variants: European, American, and French roulette.
- Other Games: Baccarat, craps, and poker variants.
The Gold Series refers to a set of premium table games with enhanced graphics and user interfaces. However, Microgaming does not produce live dealer content, so live casino games at operators offering Microgaming titles are typically supplied by providers like Evolution or Pragmatic Play Live.
Most Popular Microgaming Games
Mega Moolah
Mega Moolah is a flagship Microgaming progressive jackpot slot that has been available to Canadian players for many years. The game features a 5-reel, 25-payline layout with a four-tier jackpot system, making it one of the most recognisable jackpot slots in online gambling history.
Notable features:
5 reels and 25 paylines with four progressive jackpot tiers
Jackpot network shared across multiple Microgaming casinos
Known for record-breaking jackpot payouts
Considerations:
RTP varies by operator and jackpot configuration
Jackpot wins depend on contribution levels across the network
Game Type Key Mechanics RTP Note Why It’s Notable
Progressive Jackpot Slot 5 reels, 25 paylines, 4-tier jackpot Varies by operator One of the largest and most famous online jackpots
Thunderstruck II
Thunderstruck II is a high-volatility video slot from Microgaming inspired by Norse mythology. It uses a 5-reel layout with 243 ways to win and includes the Great Hall of Spins feature, offering multiple free spin modes with different bonus mechanics.
Notable features:
243 ways to win on a 5-reel layout
Great Hall of Spins bonus with multiple free spin options
Mythology-based theme with enhanced animations
Considerations:
High volatility may not suit low-risk players
Bonus features are required for larger win potential
Game Type Key Mechanics RTP Note Why It’s Notable
Video Slot 5 reels, 243 ways to win, Great Hall of Spins Typically 96.65% One of Microgaming’s most popular high-volatility slots
Gold Factory
Gold Factory is a classic-style Microgaming video slot built around a gold mining theme, featuring straightforward mechanics and a medium-to-high volatility profile. The game uses a 5-reel layout with multiple paylines, focusing on traditional slot play with wilds, scatters, and free spin potential.
Notable features:
5-reel video slot with a traditional payline structure
Gold mining theme with classic symbols
Includes wild symbols and free spin features
Considerations:
Lacks advanced bonus mechanics found in newer Microgaming slots
Visual design is more traditional compared to modern releases
Game Type Key Mechanics RTP Note Why It’s Notable
Video Slot 5 reels, fixed paylines, wilds and free spins Varies by operator Classic Microgaming slot with straightforward gameplay
Platform Compatibility with Microgaming games: HTML5 and Mobile
Most recent Microgaming titles are built using HTML5, which allows them to run in web browsers on desktop, mobile, and tablet devices without requiring a download. However, some older titles in the catalogue were originally developed using Flash and may not be optimised for mobile play.
What This Means for Players:
- Recent Titles: Expect smooth performance across devices, with responsive controls and scaled graphics.
- Legacy Titles: Older games may load slowly, display incorrectly on smaller screens, or not be available on mobile at all.
- Operator Platform: Game performance also depends on the operator’s platform, your device, and your internet connection. The provider supplies the game, but the operator hosts it.
How We Evaluate an Operator Offering Microgaming Games
| What to Check | Why It Matters | Where to Find It |
|---|---|---|
| Licensing Information | Confirms the operator is regulated and accountable | Footer of the website, “About Us” or “Licensing” page |
| Game Provider Filter | Confirms Microgaming titles are available | Casino lobby, game filters |
| RTP Disclosure | Allows you to compare game versions and make informed choices | Game rules, paytable, or operator terms |
| Jackpot Rules Page | Explains eligibility, contribution terms, and payout procedures | Operator terms, promotions page, or game rules |
| Payment Methods | Confirms you can deposit and withdraw using methods available to Canadians (e.g., Interac) | Banking or payments page |
| Withdrawal Policy | Clarifies processing times, limits, and verification requirements | Banking page, terms and conditions |
| KYC Requirements | Explains what documents you’ll need to verify your account | Account verification page, terms and conditions |
Quick Checks Before You Play
- Confirm the operator holds a valid licence from a recognised authority (AGCO/iGO, Kahnawake, Curaçao, Malta Gaming Authority, etc.).
- Check whether Microgaming titles appear in the lobby using the provider filter.
- Look for RTP disclosure in game rules or the operator’s terms.
- Review the jackpot rules page if you plan to play progressive games.
- Verify that payment methods suitable for Canadians (e.g., Interac) are supported.
- Read the withdrawal policy to understand processing times, limits, and verification requirements.
Important: We do not attribute operator-level metrics (such as payout speed or win rate) to the provider. These factors depend on the operator’s platform, payment processing, and policies, not the game supplier.
Get to Know the Author
Cliff Spiller is a seasoned writer, editor and passionate casino and a sports betting enthusiast. He has built a diverse portfolio across multiple industries. Cliff’s enthusiasm for casino games means he knows how to balance expert-level knowledge with accessible writing.
Real-World Observations: How Microgaming Titles Appear in Casino Lobbies
Based on our team’s cross-site observations, here’s what we typically encounter when navigating Microgaming content:
Provider Filters: Most operators include a “Microgaming” or “Games Global” filter in their lobby. However, not all operators use consistent naming, and some may list games under “All Providers” without a dedicated filter.
Jackpot Categories: Progressive jackpot games are often grouped in a separate “Jackpots” or “Progressive” category. This makes it easier to find titles like Mega Moolah, but it can also mean that non-progressive Microgaming games are harder to locate.
Branded Sections: Some operators create dedicated sections for branded content (e.g., “Jurassic Park” or “Game of Thrones”). These sections may include Microgaming titles alongside games from other providers.
Search Functionality: Searching for specific games by name can be inconsistent. Some lobbies return accurate results, while others require exact spelling or don’t index all titles.
RTP Information: RTP disclosure varies widely. Some operators display RTP in the game rules or paytable, while others do not. In cases where RTP is not disclosed, players may need to contact customer support or consult third-party resources.
Jackpot Feeds: Jackpot amounts update at different rates depending on the operator’s platform. Some operators display real-time jackpot totals, while others update less frequently.
Reviewer NoteGameplay performance depends more on the operator’s platform, your device, and your internet connection than on the provider alone. If a game loads slowly or displays incorrectly, it may be due to the operator’s hosting setup, not the game itself.
How Microgaming Compares with Other Providers
| Provider | Content Focus | Jackpot Approach | Live Dealer Strength | Mobile-First Design |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Microgaming | Broad slot catalogue, legacy titles, branded content | Large progressive network (Mega Moolah, etc.) | Limited (table games only) | HTML5 for recent titles; some legacy games not optimised |
| NetEnt | High-quality video slots, branded content | Smaller progressive network (Mega Fortune, etc.) | NetEnt Live (limited compared to Evolution) | Strong mobile optimisation |
| Pragmatic Play | High-output slot production, table games | Standalone progressives; no shared network | Pragmatic Play Live (growing) | Mobile-first approach |
| Play’n GO | Mobile-optimised slots, high volatility titles | Standalone progressives | None | Mobile-first design |
| Evolution | Live dealer games only | Live dealer jackpots (e.g., Mega Ball) | Industry leader | Mobile-optimised live streaming |
| IGT | Land-based and online slots, table games | Standalone progressives | Limited | Mixed; some legacy titles not optimised |
Which Provider Suits Which Preference
- For Progressive Jackpots: Microgaming (Mega Moolah network) or NetEnt (Mega Fortune network)
- For High-Volatility Slots: Play’n GO or Pragmatic Play
- For Branded Content: Microgaming or NetEnt
- For Live Dealer Games: Evolution or Pragmatic Play Live
- For Mobile-First Experience: Play’n GO or Pragmatic Play
FAQ
Availability depends on your province and the operator’s licensing. In Ontario, real-money play must be through AGCO-licensed operators registered with iGaming Ontario, while other provinces may encounter offshore sites with different protections.
Start with the operator’s licensing details and look for independent testing references (such as eCOGRA, iTech Labs, or GLI) where they’re published. If RTP and rules aren’t clearly available in-game, that’s a practical transparency red flag worth clarifying with support.
Confirm the casino’s jackpot rules, including minimum bet requirements and whether bonus funds affect eligibility. Also note that displayed jackpot totals and update speeds can differ by operator and jurisdiction.
Some Microgaming titles can be offered in more than one RTP configuration, and the operator may choose which version to run. The most reliable place to confirm is inside the game’s rules or paytable on that specific site.
Microgaming is the legacy name players still see in many casino lobbies. The game catalogue is owned under Apricot Investments, and Games Global is the distribution brand you may see in game credits or operator terms.
