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Guide

What are Megaways slots?

Megaways is a slot mechanic, created by Big Time Gaming, in which every reel shows a different number of symbols on each spin. Because the reel heights change, the number of ways to win changes too, up to 117,649 on a standard six-reel game. Big Time Gaming licenses it to other studios, so many providers make Megaways slots.

By Johnessy · Updated · Figures live from 16,352 recorded bonus opens

Key facts

  • Wins pay for matching symbols on adjacent reels from left to right, with no fixed paylines.
  • A standard Megaways game has six reels of two to seven symbols each: 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 = 117,649 ways at most.
  • Most Megaways slots use cascading (tumbling) reels, where winning symbols drop away and new ones fall in.
  • Megaways slots are usually medium-high to high volatility.
  • Bonanza (2016) was the first Megaways slot.

How Megaways works

On each spin a random number of symbols appears on every reel. Multiply the symbol counts together and you get that spin's number of ways to win: for example 3 × 5 × 7 × 4 × 6 × 2 = 5,040 ways. Many games add a horizontal reel above the main reels that adds extra symbols to the middle reels.

In free spins, most Megaways games add a feature such as an increasing multiplier on every cascade, which is where the big wins usually come from.

Is Megaways better?

More ways to win does not mean a higher return. RTP and volatility decide how a Megaways slot pays, exactly as with any other slot. Check both on the slot page before you play.

Frequently asked questions

Who invented Megaways?
Big Time Gaming, an Australian studio. Its first Megaways slot was Bonanza, released in 2016.
What is the maximum number of ways on Megaways?
117,649 on the standard six-reel layout. Some variants use more reels or rows and go higher.
Are Megaways slots high volatility?
Most are medium-high to high volatility, but it varies by game. Check the volatility rating on each slot page.

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Figures are recorded observations from past live play, not predictions. Gambling is 18+ and can be addictive. Read our responsible gambling guidance and editorial policy.