In 2025, digital entertainment will be more deeply integrated into daily life in British Columbia than ever before. With fast internet, better devices, and changing consumer habits, British Columbians are spending more time and money online. From streaming platforms to immersive gaming, the province is riding the wave of digital media transformation. Among the most notable trends are online gaming, iGaming, and mobile-first experiences.
Online Gambling Market
One of the standout trends is the growth of online gaming, including iGaming. According to the Cnline gaming, iGaming has seen significant growth in British Colombia. The province’s interactive and digital media industry employs approximately 16,500 people, and this growth is facilitated by user-friendly platforms and widespread mobile device usage.Â
In the 2023-2024 fiscal year, PlayNow, British Columbia’s official online gambling platform, generated $476 million in revenue, reflecting a 7% increase compared to the previous year. This increase aligns with the platform’s continued adoption of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, and virtual reality.Â
Additionally, the widespread adoption of mobile devices has made online gambling and gaming more accessible, significantly lowering the barrier to entry and allowing players to participate from nearly every country. This ease of access has played a major role in expanding online gaming platforms.Â
For example, regulated and licensed offshore casinos have found a significant market in Canada, including British Columbia. These online gambling platforms offer a broader range of games and promotional opportunities, like flexible payment options like cryptocurrencies (source: https://www.instantcasino.com/). International online casinos have helped drive the expansion of the global online gaming market to various corners of the world, from BC to Australia and back.
Video Gaming Industry
The Canadian video gaming market is expected to reach $15.01 billion by 2030. Despite gaming studios declining by 7.6%, British Columbia’s video gaming market contributed $5.1 billion to the Canadian economy in 2024. The province has played a significant role, housing more than 250 active video gaming studios and employing at least 10,930 individuals within the sector.
Streaming Still Reigns
While gaming grows, video streaming remains the king of digital entertainment. Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video continue to dominate, but niche platforms—such as sports, anime, and regional content providers—are carving out space. The average British Columbian subscribes to 3.6 streaming services in 2025, according to Statista Canada, spending around $55 per month.
Interactive content like choose-your-own-adventure series and VR documentaries are attracting a younger audience that wants more than passive viewing. TikTok and YouTube Shorts are still leading short-form video trends, particularly among Gen Z.
Music streaming continues to reshape how the citizens of British Columbia and the rest of the country consume music. At least two-thirds of the country engages with platforms like Spotify, with approximately 32% holding paid subscriptions. Gen Z and Millenials are especially active since 91% of individuals under 30 use paid subscriptions.
Podcasts and Audiobooks Grow Quietly
Audio entertainment is a silent success. Over 38% of British Columbians now listen to podcasts weekly, with true crime, wellness, and local current affairs topping the charts. Audiobooks are also gaining ground, especially with the rise of AI narration and subscription bundles.
In 2025, digital entertainment will be more deeply integrated into daily life in British Columbia than ever before. With fast internet, better devices, and changing consumer habits, British Columbians are spending more time and money online. From streaming platforms to immersive gaming, the province is riding the wave of digital media transformation. Among the most notable trends are online gaming, iGaming, and mobile-first experiences.
