Being polite is always important when you gamble online, but especially if you’re Canadian. This page will explore the finer points of Canadian gambling etiquette and provide expert tips on why you shouldn’t just play to win but also play nice.
What It Means to Play Like a Local Canadian
Politeness is one of many things Canadians can be proud of. It’s arguably the nation’s most important trait. To be Canadian means to be polite, patient, and always a good sport, especially in intense competitive environments, like live online casino games where money is on the line. When you gamble online, you should have these principles at the forefront of your mind.
Why Being a Courteous Online Casino Player Matters
Most people think you have to be a cold-hearted killer to win money gambling online against other players. That couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, being kind can actually be a better strategy than aggressive, ruthless play.
Politeness is good community spirit
For one, it’s always good to be nice and courteous to others. Politeness builds better player communities, where people are more willing to help others take their game to the next level.
Courteous players win more often
Being courteous can also help you keep a level head. If you take the time to consider the impacts of your actions on others, you’re less likely to make rash, emotional decisions. This means you can make more rational decisions that will give you a better chance of winning.
Being nice pays off
If you need any more proof that being nice pays, you just have to look at the number of Canadian poker stars. The country is massively over-represented in WSOP rankings compared to larger nations. Additionally, many other poker pros have noted that Canadian players’ politeness sets them apart from players from other countries.
With all this said, not every Canadian is nice. Daniel Negreanu, arguably the best Canadian player of all time, has had a few controversial moments where he showed poor gambling etiquette.
Five Signs You’re a Polite Canadian Gambler
If you’re a polite Canadian gambler (or want to be one) you do these five things when you play casino games online:
- Chat politely: You are courteous with other players and don’t try to start arguments in the chat. Most importantly, you never shout in all caps.
- Be positive: You say things like “good luck” and “nice hand” to other players when it’s deserved. These small things make a better gaming environment for everyone involved.
- Don’t gloat: You never gloat after wins or insult other players when they lose. Think about how it would feel if you were on the other side.
- Quit with grace: When you decide to quit playing on a bad steak, you do it quietly. After all, there’s no need to rant to criticize other players just because things didn’t go your way this time.
- Know when to stay quiet: While you may be a polite gambler, you recognize that others are not. If someone is in the chat purposefully trolling or trying to start arguments, you ignore them. You don’t meet their negativity with more of it.
How to Play Like a Real Canadian Beyond the Casino Lobby
Game lobbies and chats are not the only places you can exercise good Canadian gambling etiquette.
Be polite to casino staff
You should also always be polite when interacting with online casino staff. Treat customer support with courtesy and make sure you do some research before reaching out with a question or issue, especially if you feel strongly about something. For example, if you are upset about bonus wagering terms, make sure you read the terms and conditions before you complain to an underpaid customer support agent.
Treat other players well
In addition to casino staff, you also have an obligation to be courteous with other players outside the lobby and chat. If you review a casino, do it fairly and mention both pros and cons so future players know what to expect when they sign up.
Speaking of new players, you should also consider helping out newbies in forums when you can. You were in their shoes once, don’t forget that.