If you’re looking for affordable native cigarettes in Canada, you’ve likely come across PlayFare’s. But are PlayFare’s cigarettes actually worth buying? In this comprehensive review, we’ll break down everything you need to know about PlayFare’s cigarettes—including taste, quality, pricing, how they compare to other brands, and whether they deliver the value Canadian smokers are looking for.
Whether you’re a long-time PlayFare’s smoker or considering trying them for the first time, this honest review will help you decide if PlayFare’s cigarettes are the right choice for your smoking preferences and budget.
What Are PlayFare’s Cigarettes?
About the PlayFare’s Brand
PlayFare’s is a popular native cigarette brand manufactured by Indigenous tobacco producers on First Nations reserves in Canada. Known for their affordability and wide availability, PlayFare’s cigarettes have become one of the most recognizable native smoke brands across the country.
As a tax-exempt product sold from First Nations territory, PlayFare’s cigarettes cost significantly less than convenience store brands while maintaining solid quality—making them a favorite among budget-conscious Canadian smokers.
PlayFare’s Product Line
PlayFare’s offers a complete range of cigarette strengths and varieties to suit different smoking preferences:
- PlayFare’s Full Flavor (Red) – Bold, rich tobacco taste
- PlayFare’s Light (Blue) – Smooth, balanced experience
- PlayFare’s Ultra-Light (Silver/Gold) – Mild, gentle draw
- PlayFare’s Menthol – Refreshing menthol cooling
- PlayFare’s King Size – Standard length cigarettes
- PlayFare’s 100s – Longer cigarettes for extended smoking
This variety ensures there’s a PlayFare’s option for every type of smoker—from those who prefer bold full-flavor cigarettes to those who enjoy smooth, light menthol.
PlayFare’s Cigarettes: Detailed Review
Taste & Flavor Profile
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
PlayFare’s cigarettes offer a straightforward tobacco taste without any fancy bells and whistles. Here’s what to expect:
Full Flavor (Red):
- Taste: Robust tobacco flavor with earthy notes
- Strength: Medium-strong, satisfying throat hit
- Character: No-nonsense traditional cigarette taste
- Best For: Smokers who want a solid, dependable smoke
Light (Blue):
- Taste: Milder tobacco with smooth finish
- Strength: Medium, balanced experience
- Character: Easy-going, all-day smokeable
- Best For: Moderate smokers seeking smoothness
Ultra-Light:
- Taste: Subtle tobacco notes, very mild
- Strength: Light, minimal throat sensation
- Character: Gentle, airy draw
- Best For: Light or social smokers
Menthol:
- Taste: Moderate menthol cooling with tobacco base
- Strength: Refreshing, not overwhelming
- Character: Classic menthol experience
- Best For: Menthol enthusiasts on a budget
The Verdict: PlayFare’s won’t blow you away with complex flavor profiles, but they deliver a consistent, honest tobacco taste. They’re not trying to be premium—they’re trying to be dependable and affordable, and they succeed at that.
Quality & Construction
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
What We Liked:
- ✅ Consistent burn rate – PlayFare’s burn evenly without constant relighting
- ✅ Solid construction – Cigarettes are firmly packed, not loose or falling apart
- ✅ Good filter quality – Filters don’t collapse or break easily
- ✅ Fresh tobacco – When ordered from Native Smokes Canada, product is fresh (manufactured within 2-4 weeks)
- ✅ Minimal tobacco spillage – Well-packed cigarettes with little loose tobacco
What Could Be Better:
- ⚠️ Occasional uneven packing – Some cigarettes in a pack may be slightly looser than others
- ⚠️ Not premium-level construction – You can tell these are budget cigarettes compared to brands like Marlboro or du Maurier
- ⚠️ Filter effectiveness – Standard filters, nothing fancy
The Verdict: For the price, PlayFare’s construction quality is solid. You’re getting a well-made cigarette that smokes reliably. Don’t expect luxury, but you won’t be disappointed with the build quality for a budget brand.
Burn Rate & Smoking Experience
Overall Rating: 4/5
One area where PlayFare’s actually excels is burn rate and overall smoking experience:
Burn Rate:
- Speed: Medium burn—not too fast, not too slow
- Evenness: Generally burns straight without canoeing
- Reliability: Rarely requires relighting
- Ash: Forms solid ash that holds well
Draw & Airflow:
- Full Flavor: Slightly tighter draw, good for satisfying pulls
- Light: Easy, smooth draw
- Ultra-Light: Very airy, effortless draw
- Menthol: Balanced draw with cooling sensation
Smoke Output:
- Moderate smoke production
- Not excessively harsh on throat
- Clean finish without lingering chemical taste
The Verdict: PlayFare’s provides a pleasant, no-fuss smoking experience. The burn rate is consistent, the draw is smooth (depending on strength), and you get a satisfying smoke from start to finish.
Packaging & Presentation
Overall Rating: 3/5
PlayFare’s packaging is functional and straightforward:
Pack Design:
- Simple, clean cardboard packs
- Color-coded by strength (Red = Full, Blue = Light, etc.)
- Basic branding without excessive graphics
- Standard flip-top box design
Carton Packaging:
- Sturdy carton boxes (8 packs per carton)
- Clear labeling of product type
- Protected for shipping when ordered from Native Smokes Canada
Foil Freshness Seal:
- Standard foil wrapper inside pack
- Keeps cigarettes fresh until opened
- Easy to remove without tearing
The Verdict: Nothing fancy here—PlayFare’s packaging is basic but functional. It protects the cigarettes, clearly identifies the product, and does its job. Don’t expect premium aesthetics, but you won’t be embarrassed pulling these out either.
PlayFare’s Pricing: The Biggest Advantage
How Much Do PlayFare’s Cigarettes Cost?
Here’s where PlayFare’s truly shines—price. PlayFare’s are consistently among the most affordable native cigarettes available in Canada.
Typical PlayFare’s Pricing (at Native Smokes Canada):
- Single Carton: $40-$45
- 5-9 Cartons: $38-$43 each (10% bulk discount)
- 10-19 Cartons: $36-$41 each (15% bulk discount)
- 20+ Cartons: $34-$39 each (20% bulk discount)
Compare to Convenience Store Prices:
- Marlboro/du Maurier: $180-$220 per carton
- PlayFare’s: $40-$45 per carton
- Savings Per Carton: $135-$180
- Annual Savings (26 cartons/year): $3,500-$4,680
Value for Money Rating: 5/5
The Bottom Line: PlayFare’s offer exceptional value. You’re getting a solid, smokeable cigarette at less than 25% of retail brand prices. For budget-conscious smokers, PlayFare’s are unbeatable on price-to-quality ratio.
PlayFare’s vs. Other Native Cigarette Brands
How Do PlayFare’s Stack Up Against Competition?
Let’s compare PlayFare’s to other popular native cigarette brands:
PlayFare’s vs. Canadian Classics
| Factor | PlayFare’s | Canadian Classics |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $40-45/carton ✅ | $45-50/carton |
| Taste Quality | Good | Excellent ✅ |
| Construction | Solid | Premium ✅ |
| Burn Rate | Consistent ✅ | Consistent ✅ |
| Best For | Budget smokers ✅ | Quality seekers |
Winner: Canadian Classics for quality, PlayFare’s for budget
PlayFare’s vs. Canadian Goose
| Factor | PlayFare’s | Canadian Goose |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $40-45/carton ✅ | $42-48/carton |
| Taste Quality | Good | Very Good ✅ |
| Smoothness | Decent | Excellent ✅ |
| Value | Excellent ✅ | Excellent ✅ |
| Best For | Maximum savings | Balanced quality/price |
Winner: Tie—depends on whether you prioritize lowest price (PlayFare’s) or slightly better taste (Canadian Goose)
PlayFare’s vs. BB Cigarettes
| Factor | PlayFare’s | BB Cigarettes |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $40-45/carton | $38-42/carton ✅ |
| Taste Quality | Good ✅ | Acceptable |
| Variety | Excellent ✅ | Limited |
| Consistency | Reliable ✅ | Variable |
| Best For | Balanced budget choice ✅ | Absolute lowest price |
Winner: PlayFare’s—better overall quality for just slightly more money
PlayFare’s vs. DK’s Cigarettes
| Factor | PlayFare’s | DK’s |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $40-45/carton ✅ | $40-44/carton ✅ |
| Taste | Straightforward | Richer ✅ |
| Availability | Widespread ✅ | Good |
| Variety | More options ✅ | Limited |
| Best For | Variety seekers | Flavor preference |
Winner: PlayFare’s for variety, DK’s for richer taste
Who Should Buy PlayFare’s Cigarettes?
PlayFare’s Are Perfect For:
- ✅ Budget-Conscious Smokers – If saving money is your top priority, PlayFare’s deliver maximum value
- ✅ Pack-a-Day (or More) Smokers – Heavy smokers who go through cigarettes quickly benefit most from the low price
- ✅ No-Nonsense Smokers – If you want a straightforward smoke without paying for branding, PlayFare’s are ideal
- ✅ First-Time Native Cigarette Buyers – PlayFare’s are a low-risk way to try native smokes without breaking the bank
- ✅ Smokers Switching from Retail Brands – If you’re tired of $20+ packs at the gas station, PlayFare’s offer huge savings
- ✅ Bulk Buyers – With automatic discounts on larger orders, PlayFare’s are perfect for stocking up
- ✅ Variety Seekers – With full flavor, light, ultra-light, menthol, and 100s options, there’s something for everyone
PlayFare’s Might NOT Be For:
- ❌ Premium Cigarette Enthusiasts – If you only smoke premium brands and demand top-tier quality, consider Canadian Classics instead
- ❌ Flavor Connoisseurs – If complex flavor profiles matter to you, PlayFare’s won’t impress
- ❌ Social/Light Smokers – If you only smoke occasionally, the small price difference to upgrade to a higher-end brand might be worth it
- ❌ Brand-Conscious Smokers – If you care about packaging and presentation, PlayFare’s basic look might disappoint
Real Customer Reviews: What Smokers Say About PlayFare’s
Positive Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Best Value Cigarettes!”
“I switched from Marlboro to PlayFare’s six months ago and I’m saving over $350 a month. Yes, they’re not quite as smooth as Marlboro, but they’re 80% as good at 25% of the price. Totally worth it!”
– Mark D., Toronto, ON
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Solid Budget Choice”
“PlayFare’s Light are my go-to daily smoke. Consistent quality, good burn, and the price can’t be beat. I order in bulk from Native Smokes Canada and save a fortune.”
– Lisa K., Calgary, AB
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Perfect for Heavy Smokers”
“I smoke 1.5 packs a day. At retail prices I was spending $700+/month. Now with PlayFare’s I spend under $150. Same satisfying smoke, just way cheaper.”
– James R., Vancouver, BC
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Great Menthol Option”
“PlayFare’s Menthol are surprisingly good. Not as strong as some menthols but perfect for all-day smoking. And the price is unbeatable.”
– Sarah T., Montreal, QC
Constructive Criticism
⭐⭐⭐ “Good But Not Great”
“PlayFare’s are fine for the price. They get the job done but don’t expect luxury. I keep them as my daily smoke and treat myself to Canadian Classics on weekends.”
– Dan M., Edmonton, AB
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Occasional Quality Variations”
“Most of the time PlayFare’s are great, but occasionally I get a pack where a few cigarettes are loosely packed. Still worth the price though.”
– Michelle P., Ottawa, ON
⭐⭐⭐ “Not as Smooth as Premium”
“If you’re coming from du Maurier or Export A, PlayFare’s will feel rougher. But for the massive savings, I’ve adjusted and don’t mind the difference anymore.”
– Kevin L., Halifax, NS
The Final Verdict: Are PlayFare’s Cigarettes Worth It?
Overall Rating: 4/5 Stars
After extensive testing and reviewing customer feedback, here’s our final verdict on PlayFare’s cigarettes:
Pros:
- ✅ Exceptional Value – Among the lowest-priced native cigarettes without sacrificing too much quality
- ✅ Consistent Performance – Reliable burn, decent taste, solid construction
- ✅ Wide Variety – Full range of strengths and types (full, light, ultra-light, menthol, 100s)
- ✅ Massive Savings – Save $3,500-$4,680 annually compared to retail brands
- ✅ Good for Daily Smoking – No-fuss cigarettes that perform well for regular use
- ✅ Widely Available – Easy to order from Native Smokes Canada with fast delivery
- ✅ Bulk Discounts – Save even more when ordering multiple cartons
Cons:
- ❌ Not Premium Quality – Can’t compete with top-tier brands on taste and smoothness
- ❌ Basic Packaging – Functional but unimpressive presentation
- ❌ Occasional Inconsistency – Some packs may have slightly variable quality
- ❌ Simple Flavor Profile – Straightforward tobacco taste without complexity
So, Are PlayFare’s Worth It?
YES—absolutely, for the right smoker.
If you’re looking for the best value native cigarettes that deliver solid quality at rock-bottom prices, PlayFare’s are an excellent choice. They’re not trying to be luxury cigarettes, and that’s okay—they’re trying to be affordable, reliable, and satisfying, and they accomplish that mission perfectly.
You should buy PlayFare’s if:
- You want to save $3,000+ per year on cigarettes
- You smoke regularly and go through cigarettes quickly
- You prioritize value over premium branding
- You want a consistent, dependable smoke
You might prefer a different brand if:
- You demand absolute top-tier taste and smoothness (try Canadian Classics)
- You only smoke occasionally and the price difference doesn’t matter much
- You’re very particular about complex flavor profiles
Where to Buy PlayFare’s Cigarettes
Order PlayFare’s Online from Native Smokes Canada
The best way to buy PlayFare’s cigarettes is online from Native Smokes Canada. Here’s why:
- ✅ Guaranteed Authentic – 100% genuine PlayFare’s from licensed manufacturers
- ✅ Fresh Products – Manufactured within 2-4 weeks of delivery
- ✅ Lowest Prices – Competitive pricing with bulk discounts
- ✅ Fast Shipping – 2-5 day delivery across Canada
- ✅ Free Shipping – On orders over $200
- ✅ Secure Payment – E-transfer and credit card accepted
- ✅ Full Selection – All PlayFare’s varieties available
Current PlayFare’s Pricing:
- PlayFare’s Full Flavor: Shop Now
- PlayFare’s Light: Shop Now
- PlayFare’s Ultra-Light: Shop Now
- PlayFare’s Menthol: Shop Now
- All PlayFare’s Products: Browse Complete Selection
Bulk Discount Savings:
- 5-9 Cartons: Save 10% automatically
- 10-19 Cartons: Save 15% automatically
- 20+ Cartons: Save 20% automatically
Example: Order 10 cartons of PlayFare’s for just $382.50 (15% off) and save $67.50!
Frequently Asked Questions About PlayFare’s Cigarettes
Q: How do PlayFare’s compare to Marlboro or du Maurier?
A: PlayFare’s are less smooth and have a simpler flavor profile than premium brands like Marlboro or du Maurier. However, they cost about 75-80% less while still providing a satisfying smoke. Most smokers find the trade-off well worth the massive savings.
Q: Are PlayFare’s lower quality because they’re cheaper?
A: No—PlayFare’s are cheaper primarily because they’re sold tax-exempt from First Nations territory, not because of inferior quality. The tobacco is real, the construction is solid, and the product is legitimate. You’re saving on taxes, not sacrificing quality.
Q: What strength should I choose?
A: If you currently smoke:
- Marlboro Red, du Maurier Regular: Try PlayFare’s Full Flavor
- Marlboro Light, du Maurier Blue: Try PlayFare’s Light
- Ultra-lights or menthol: Try PlayFare’s Ultra-Light or Menthol
Q: How fresh are the PlayFare’s from Native Smokes Canada?
A: All PlayFare’s cigarettes from Native Smokes Canada are manufactured within 2-4 weeks of delivery and vacuum-sealed for maximum freshness during shipping.
Q: Can I mix PlayFare’s with other brands in my order?
A: Absolutely! You can mix and match PlayFare’s with Canadian Classics, Canadian Goose, or any other brands. Your bulk discount applies to total cartons ordered.
Q: What’s the shelf life of PlayFare’s cigarettes?
A: When stored properly in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, PlayFare’s cigarettes remain fresh for 6-12 months.
Q: Do PlayFare’s taste like “cheap” cigarettes?
A: Not at all. PlayFare’s taste like honest, straightforward tobacco. They’re not fancy or complex, but they don’t taste cheap or chemical-laden. They’re a no-nonsense smoke.
Q: Are PlayFare’s available in 100s (longer cigarettes)?
A: Yes! PlayFare’s offers 100s in select varieties for smokers who prefer longer cigarettes.
Q: How long does shipping take for PlayFare’s orders?
A: Standard shipping from Native Smokes Canada takes 2-5 business days to most Canadian addresses, with free shipping on orders over $200.
Q: Can I return PlayFare’s if I don’t like them?
A: Due to health regulations, tobacco products cannot be returned once purchased. However, Native Smokes Canada offers exchanges for defective or damaged products. View full return policy.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of PlayFare’s Cigarettes
Storage Tips:
- Keep in original packaging until ready to use
- Store in cool, dry location (15-20°C ideal)
- Avoid direct sunlight which can dry out tobacco
- Use airtight containers for long-term bulk storage
- Don’t refrigerate – room temperature is best
Ordering Tips:
- Buy in bulk to maximize savings with automatic discounts
- Try variety – Order different strengths to find your favorite
- Watch for promotions on Native Smokes Canada website
- Order before you run out to account for 2-5 day shipping
- Sign up for emails to get notified of special offers
Transitioning from Retail Brands:
- Give it time – Allow 2-3 packs to adjust to the different taste
- Match your strength – Don’t downgrade if you smoke full flavor
- Focus on savings – Remember you’re saving $300+ per month
- Try different varieties – PlayFare’s Light might suit you better than Full Flavor
- Mix with premium – Some smokers do PlayFare’s daily, premium on weekends
Final Thoughts: Should You Try PlayFare’s?
After this comprehensive review, our conclusion is clear: PlayFare’s cigarettes are absolutely worth trying if you want to save serious money without completely sacrificing smoking satisfaction.
They won’t replace the experience of premium cigarettes, but they don’t need to—they offer something even better: exceptional value. For the price of one carton of Marlboro, you can buy four cartons of PlayFare’s. That’s a game-changer for regular smokers.
Our Recommendation:
Try PlayFare’s with a small order first (2-4 cartons in different strengths) to see which variety you prefer. If you like them, stock up with a bulk order to maximize your savings with automatic discounts.
Most smokers who try PlayFare’s stick with them because the value is simply too good to pass up—and the quality is better than they expected.
Ready to Try PlayFare’s?
👉 Order PlayFare’s Cigarettes Now
Current Pricing: $40-45/carton with automatic bulk discounts
Shipping: FREE on orders over $200
Delivery: 2-5 business days across Canada
Related Articles:
- Canadian Classics vs Canadian Goose: Which Is Better?
- Top 10 Native Cigarette Brands in Canada (2026 Review)
- How Much Money Can You Save Switching to Native Cigarettes?
- The Difference Between Full Flavor, Light, and Ultra-Light Cigarettes
- First-Time Buyer’s Guide: How to Order Native Cigarettes Online
- BB Cigarettes Review: Budget Brand Analysis
- Canadian Menthol Cigarettes Review
Start Saving with PlayFare’s Today
Don’t spend another dollar more than necessary on cigarettes. Try PlayFare’s and discover why thousands of Canadian smokers have made the switch to affordable, quality native cigarettes.
Order Now: Shop All PlayFare’s Varieties
Questions? Contact our customer service team:
📧 Email: [email protected]
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Disclaimer: Smoking is harmful to your health and causes serious diseases including cancer, heart disease, and stroke. This review is for informational purposes only for adult smokers. We do not encourage smoking. If you don’t smoke, don’t start. Visit Health Canada for smoking cessation resources.
