The sporting industry attracts billions of fans internationally. Soccer, the most popular sport, has more than 3.5 billion fans. Likewise, the gambling industry has billions of participants annually, with an estimated 4.2 billion people placing a wager at least once yearly.
As in most industries with such an extensive reach, there is an overlap, and many people love sports and gambling. Because of this, the gambling industry has, for years, accommodated these sports fans by offering unique sports-themed games tailor-made to perfectly marry the joy of sports with the thrill of gambling.
Let’s look at some of the best casino games based on top sports that are bound to be alluring to any sports fanatic.
Hockey Hero (Push Gaming)
Attracting more than two billion fans globally, hockey is a beloved sport that can be played on a field or ice. Ice hockey, specifically, is immensely popular in regions like Canada, Russia, and the US, and Hockey Hero perfectly combines this love of the ice into the ultimate slot.
Developed by Push Gaming, Hockey Hero places you center stage on an immense ice hockey ring backdrop, complete with waving flags and screaming fans.
With symbols that any hockey enthusiast will recognize, the game has fantastic graphics and an entertaining soundtrack.
It isn’t just the game’s excellent graphics that will get hockey fans pumped up. The game has a stacked wild feature that extends to the players — leading to fantastic possibilities of winning.
A free spin bonus is also available when landing three scatters during which a multiplier is applied that boosts wins even further.
Football Star (Microgaming)
Known for developing Mega Moolah, one of the most popular casino games of all time, Microgaming is famous for producing incredible games. Football Star is no exception and is the perfect fit for soccer fans looking for the thrill of a big win.
Although featuring players that look like they belong in a comic more than a highly detailed slot game, the graphics are still good enough to enjoy and feature numerous soccer paraphernalia. However, the main appeal is the gameplay.
During regular play, the game features rolling reels, which cause winning symbols to fall and be replaced by new options — leading to additional wins. There is also a random bonus in which reels will turn completely wild.
The best feature, however, is the free spins bonus that offers up to 25 spins accompanied by multipliers of up to ten times.
Rocky (Playtech)
When it comes to boxing, one of the most iconic names in history is the fictional hero Rocky. Fortunately, the Rocky slot by Playtech offers the same level of intensity and entertainment as the original hit movies but also includes the opportunity to cash in on the fighters’ skills.
In addition to the spectacularly detailed symbols, the game comes to life with scenes from the movie. These are supplemented by images and music from the film that make the game a visual treat to play and will get you fired up for your next spin.
The leading man, Sylvester Stallone, acts wild while playing and can help boost wins. The game also has a free spin bonus that offers 15 or more spins with a double multiplier.
If that’s not enough, there is a Knockout Bonus where Rocky will go head-to-head with an opponent to help you earn big wins as he battles through ten rounds.
Bicicleta (Yggdrasil Gaming)
Although the name may be a tongue twister, there is nothing complex about the adrenaline-fueled fun that Yggdrasil Gaming brings with this football-themed slot. Taking you directly into the heart of a packed stadium to spin reels, the game creates an electrifying atmosphere that leaves you wanting more.
The game offers stunning visuals while listening to the shrill sound of whistles, the screams of roaring fans, and the upbeat background melody. Each player is vividly detailed, and matching players grant a multiplier that could make you feel like a real winner.
The game also features wilds that substitute for everything except scatters. Getting these can lead you to free spins that help increase your score without breaking the bank.
A sought-after golden trophy is also available in the fifth reel. Landing this will score you a neat 1,000 credits instant cash prize.
Scudamore’s Super Stakes (NetEnt)
As one of the earliest forms of gambling in many territories, horseracing still remains one of the most thrilling ways to wager. NetEnt has modernized the sport with the release of Scudamore’s Super Stakes, making a day at the races something for everyone.
Based on famed jockey Michael Scudamore, the game features symbols of pro jockeys racing on their incredible horses.
Each symbol is wonderfully detailed and set against a gold and green backdrop, including glimpses of a raceway. The thrilling music also adds to the experience of being at the races.
Scudamore himself makes an appearance as a wild that substitutes all symbols except the scatter.
Getting three or more trophies will launch the Peter’s Classic Cup feature, through which additional paylines are unlocked and start a race that grants excellent prizes if you win.
There is also a Classic Cup bonus that can reward you handsomely if you pick the correct symbol.
Alaskan Fishing (Microgaming)
Highlighting fishing as an intensively competitive sport, Alaskan Fishing takes you into Alaska’s vast and beautiful landscape to bring you thrilling gameplay, stunning graphics, and big catches.
Developed by Microgaming, the game is perfect for not just fans of the sport but also any players looking for a unique game to play.
With a riverbed and row of trees adorning your screen, the reels comprise various fish, equipment, bears, and even an eagle swooping down to make a catch. Each of these symbols is intricately designed and adds to the overall refined look players expect from the developer.
Boasting 243 ways to win, the slot has an impressive paytable that can be taken advantage of by triggering the 15 free spins granted when landing three scatters.
A great pick-and-click bonus lets you explore various fishing locations that — if you’re lucky — will uncover a significant win.
