Neutral guidance for prize-style games and lottery-style draws in Canada

CanadaNow is an independent, informational resource. It does not operate games or process payments. The aim is to help adults understand how number-based prize games work, what to consider before taking part, and how to keep play balanced and optional.

Informational only · No ticket sales
Focus on balance, limits and transparency
Independent guidance · No operator endorsements

Quick start checklist

Read the responsible play section in full.
Choose games that match your budget and time.
Check rules and odds from official sources.
Pause or step back if play stops feeling comfortable.

This site does not provide legal, financial or medical advice. For personalised guidance, please contact a qualified professional.

How to use this website

1. Learn the basics

Start with the general information and responsible play sections to understand key terms, risk factors and the role of chance.

2. Review sample games

Explore three fictional, lottery-style games that illustrate common mechanics such as number draws, dice outcomes and wheel spins.

3. Reflect and set limits

Use the guidelines to decide if, when and how prize games fit into your life and finances, if at all.

Example prize-style games

The games below are fictional examples. They are designed to show how prize draws and number-based games might be structured, not to promote specific products.

Maple Number Cascades

A simple number-draw concept using numbered balls and tiered prize levels.

Game outline

Players choose six numbers from 1 to 49.
Six balls are drawn at random from a drum containing 49 numbered balls.
Prizes are based on the number of matches between chosen and drawn numbers.

Example round

A player selects 3, 11, 19, 24, 37 and 42. The drawn numbers are 4, 11, 19, 25, 37 and 48. This results in three matches (11, 19 and 37), which might qualify for a lower-tier prize.

Guidance and considerations

Treat each draw as independent; past results do not influence future outcomes.
Set a clear spending limit before choosing numbers.
Use quick-pick or chosen numbers based on preference, not “systems” promising better odds.

Northern Dice Rally

A dice-based prize game focused on combinations rather than single outcomes.

Game outline

Two standard six-sided dice are rolled three times.
Each roll produces a pair such as (2,5) or (6,6).
Prizes are linked to totals, doubles or specific combinations.

Example round

In one session, the dice show (3,3), (1,5) and (4,6). The first roll is a double with a total of 6, the second totals 6 again, and the third totals 10. A prize table could, for example, reward doubles and higher totals more than other outcomes.

Guidance and considerations

Recognise that each roll is random and not influenced by “streaks”.
Avoid chasing losses after unfavourable sequences.
Decide in advance how many rounds, if any, you will play.

Aurora Prize Wheel

A stylised wheel-of-fortune concept showing variable prize segments.

Game outline

A virtual or physical wheel is divided into segments with different prize values.
Each spin has one outcome: the pointer stops on a single segment.
Some segments may offer non-cash rewards or “no prize” results.

Example round

A wheel contains 32 equal segments. Eight segments award a small prize, three segments award a mid-level prize, one segment offers a top prize and the remaining twenty contain no prize. Each spin has the same chance of landing on any one segment.

Guidance and considerations

Pay attention to how many segments carry prizes versus no-prize outcomes.
View each spin as a separate event, not a step toward an eventual “due” win.
Use prize wheels, if at all, as low-stakes entertainment rather than a financial strategy.

Responsible play and support

Responsible play means treating prize and lottery-style games as optional entertainment only, and making sure they do not disrupt your finances, wellbeing or relationships.

Core principles

Only use money that you can comfortably afford to lose.
Keep games as a small part of your leisure time, not a central activity.
Do not rely on games to solve financial pressure or debts.
Plan breaks and non-gaming activities in advance.

Warning signs

Spending more time or money than planned on games.
Feeling stressed, guilty or secretive about play.
Trying to “win back” previous losses.
Allowing games to interfere with work, study or family time.

If you have concerns

If prize or lottery-style games are causing worry or harm, consider speaking with a trusted person or contacting a professional support service in your province or territory. Many regions offer confidential, low-cost or free services for gambling-related concerns.

This website cannot provide counselling, crisis intervention or emergency assistance. If you are in immediate danger or feel unable to stay safe, contact local emergency services right away.

Frequently asked questions

Is this website a lottery or gaming operator?

No. This website does not sell tickets, hold player accounts, process payments or run any games. It is an informational resource only and does not replace official rules or terms published by licensed operators.

Are the games on this website real?

The games described here are fictional examples intended to show how prize and lottery-style mechanics might work. They are not offers, promotions or invitations to gamble.

Does this website give financial or legal advice?

No. Content is general and educational. It should not be used as a basis for financial decisions, legal strategies or health-related choices. For personalised advice, please speak with a qualified professional.

Can you guarantee winning strategies?

No. Prize and lottery-style games are based on chance. No strategy, system or pattern can guarantee a particular outcome or remove the role of randomness.

Who can use this website?

The content is intended for adults aged 18 or older who wish to better understand prize-style games and associated risks before deciding whether or how to participate.