Published: April 13, 2025
PlayAlberta is the province's only government-operated sportsbook — and that monopoly is exactly the problem. While Alberta prepares to open its market to competition through Bill 48, PlayAlberta continues to offer bettors a subpar experience.
Compared to leading sportsbooks like Bet365 or Pinnacle, PlayAlberta consistently offers worse lines — especially on parlays and props. You’re losing value before the game even starts.
Supposedly as an anti-money laundering measure, you can only withdraw your winnings with ease and not your initial deposit!
The site feels like it was designed five years ago and never updated. Basic navigation is slow, the mobile experience is frustrating, and bet slips are glitchy.
Live betting on PlayAlberta is limited and often delayed. Contrast that with global books offering real-time updates, cash-outs, and in-play props.
With no competition, there's no urgency to improve odds, promos, or user experience. Why would they? They have a captive audience — for now.
Thankfully, grey market sportsbooks are already offering Albertans better prices, more options, and actual innovation. And with Bill 48 coming, true competition is on the horizon.