burger icon
Plaza Royal Casino
Log In

About Ethan Thompson - Your Canadian Online Casino Expert for Plaza Royal Casino

Why trust my advice for your next online casino experience?

Ever tried finding a legit Canadian casino? It's a minefield-flashy promos everywhere, and reviews that barely scratch the surface. I've been around the block in iGaming for four years now. Honestly, the biggest bonus isn't always the best bet (learned that the hard way). For me, it's about trust and safety. Sometimes I just get a weird vibe from a site-even if the games look great. That instinct matters as much as any checklist. Honestly, I didn't set out to write guides-I just wanted to avoid another bad casino. But after seeing the same mistakes pop up, it made sense to share what I learned. That's why I built these guides-so you can skip the noise and actually have fun.

My pic

Skip the formalities? Here's what I actually do, what I care about, and how I can help you play smarter. (Jump to: background, reviews, local tips, how to reach me, or just start reading below!)

Professional Identification

Name: Ethan Thompson

Title: iGaming Blogger & Canadian Casino Analyst

Primary Role at plaza-royal-ca.com: Lead Reviewer, Player Safety Advocate, and Content Strategist

Started out just looking for a casino that didn't feel sketchy. Four years later, I know what to watch for-especially the little red flags most folks miss. I've chased my share of duds before figuring out what works-still cringe at some early choices. But if I can help you skip those mistakes, worth it.

Expertise and Credentials

When I started writing about online casinos, I quickly noticed how little transparency there was for Canadian players. That's what pushed me to focus on honest, experience-based reviews. Here's what I bring to the table:

  • Been at this for four years-honestly, my first dozen reviews were rough. Now, with over 100 write-ups under my belt, I know what details actually matter to Canadian players.
  • I usually check for MGA or UKGC approval-if they're on board, that's a good sign. Plaza-royal-casino claims both, but always double-check licenses yourself.
  • Certified in Responsible Gambling Awareness as a member of the Canadian Gaming Association, so every review and guide I write includes up-to-date info on responsible gambling tools and self-exclusion options for Canadians.
  • Professional background in communications, with a formal education in digital media and a focus on consumer protection. Honestly, half the time casino terms make my head spin. I try to turn the jargon into advice you'll actually use.
  • Contributor to industry publications and active participant in iGaming webinars, roundtables, and player advocacy panels.

In all my work, I make sure to observe how industry standards are changing, expand my knowledge with research and real feedback from Canadian players, and echo those lessons in every review-so you're never left guessing about what really matters.

Specialization Areas

Let's be honest: a lot of casino guides out there are just copy-paste jobs. My content stands out because I focus on what actually matters for Canadians:

  • Online casino games: Detailed analysis of slots, table games, live casino, and specialty games you'll find at sites like plaza-royal-casino.
  • Payment Methods: I've got real experience with Interac, e-wallets, credit cards, and the latest instant banking options that Canadians trust (and I pay extra attention to security and withdrawal times, because no one likes waiting for their winnings).
  • Bonus & Promotion Analysis: I break down the fine print-like wagering requirements and loyalty programs-so you know exactly what you're signing up for and never get caught by surprise.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Up-to-date guidance on Canadian gaming laws, with a focus on MGA and UKGC-licensed sites that operate here (outside Ontario). I always clarify the legal status of plaza-royal-casino for Canadians.
  • Mobile Casino Experiences: I test casino apps and mobile sites for usability, speed, and support, including bilingual (EN/FR) help-because let's face it, a lot of us play on our phones these days.
  • Responsible Gambling Resources: How to set limits, self-exclude, and where to get help-always with practical advice for Canadian players. (And don't forget to check out the Responsible Gaming section for signs of gambling addiction and ways to keep your play healthy.)

Doesn't matter if you're a rookie or a regular-my reviews dig into the stuff that actually matters for Canadians (stuff I wish I'd known on day one).

Achievements and Publications

My work has been featured in Canadian iGaming newsletters and cited by online casino comparison sites for its clarity and player-first approach. Here are a few things I'm proud of:

  • Over 100 published reviews and guides on Canadian-facing casino brands, including deep dives into plaza-royal-casino, bonus offers, and payment methods.
  • Keynote contributor at a recent Canadian Gaming Association webinar, where I spoke on "Transparency in Casino Reviews: Protecting Players in the Digital Age."
  • Member of the Canadian Gaming Association, keeping up with best practices and responsible gambling standards.
  • Featured articles on responsible gambling and regulatory changes in Canada, helping both new and experienced players understand what's changing and how it affects their play.

Honestly, some of my proudest moments are when someone says my review saved them from a bad bet. That means more than any award.

Mission and Values

If there's one thing I want every reader to know, it's that my reviews and guides are always:

  • I don't do paid shill jobs-never have, never will. If a casino sucks, I'll say so.
  • I'll always flag anything sketchy or risky-learned that lesson after a friend lost cash to a shady payout rule. If it's not fun or safe, I'll warn you.
  • Transparent about affiliate relationships-any links or partnerships are clearly disclosed, and they don't affect my ratings or recommendations.
  • Regularly fact-checked and updated-especially for casino reviews, bonus terms, or payment options that change often. I update my content at least monthly, or whenever new rules come in for Canadian players.
  • Canadian players get the short end of the stick sometimes, so I dig into the fine print and call out any traps before you get caught.

When you read a guide or review from me, you can trust it's based on real research, current facts, and a personal commitment to your safety.

Regional Expertise

I understand what it's like slogging through casino sites with 'EN/FR' help that's more Franglais than French. (And don't get me started on Interac fees-total pain.) My expertise includes:

  • Deep familiarity with Canadian gambling regulations, especially in markets outside Ontario (where plaza-royal-casino is licensed to operate).
  • Knowledge of popular Canadian payment methods, including Interac, eTransfer, and bilingual customer support-so you always know what to expect every step of the way.
  • Understanding Canadian player preferences-from bonus types to loyalty programs and data privacy concerns unique to our market.
  • Networked with local industry professionals-so I'm always in the loop about Canadian iGaming trends and regulatory updates.
  • Culturally attuned to Canadian values-balancing fun and entertainment with safety, openness, and respect for personal choice.

This local focus means every guide and review I write is built on real-world experience and local insight-not just generic advice copied from international sources. Sometimes I ramble (sorry)-but I'd rather overshare than miss a detail that could save you money...

Personal Touch

Confession: I'm a sucker for video poker. Sometimes I try to outsmart the machine-doesn't always work, but it's a blast. And yeah, I've chased losses before. Now it's just for fun. Remember, casino games are entertainment, not a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Play responsibly and know your limits.

Work Examples

If you want the nitty-gritty on bonuses, payments, or how to dodge sketchy T&Cs, check out my deep dives. And if you're lost, drop me a line-nothing's too basic or weird!

Honestly, my first crack at reviewing plaza-royal-casino missed some hidden fees-got called out for it, and now I double-check every time. Live and learn. Every guide is written with you in mind-so you can make smart, confident choices, whether you're checking out your first online casino or hunting for a better bonus.

Contact Information

Got a weird casino story or a question? Fire it over-sometimes the best tips come from readers, not me. I check messages over morning coffee (or a Tim's run, if I'm honest). If you've got feedback, a rant, or just want to vent about a slow payout, hit me up. I actually read every email-even the salty ones. Reach out anytime at [email protected]-I reply personally and appreciate your input to help keep my guides honest and up to date.

Bonne chance, and don't let the slots eat your lunch. - Ethan (writing from a chilly morning)

Ethan Thompson
Lead Reviewer & Player Advocate, plaza-royal-ca.com

Info is fresh as of November 2025-but hey, casino terms change fast. Always double-check before you sign up!

Note: This page is an independent review and not an official casino site. For signs of gambling addiction, tips on setting limits, and support resources, please visit our Responsible Gaming section. Casino games are a form of entertainment and carry financial risk-they are not an investment or a way to earn money.

Sometimes I ramble (see above)-but I'd rather overshare than leave you wondering... If you spot anything that needs updating, let me know!