What Are Megaways Slots? Mechanics, Features, and Top Games

Did you know Megaways slots are one of the most popular and influential slot mechanics in the online casino world? Built by Big Time Gaming in 2015, it is now powering hundreds of titles across the industry. The concept’s success hinges on a simple idea: the number of symbols on each reel can change with each spin, creating a different number of ways to win every time. But how exactly does it work? What are the key features? Follow our guide to know the answers to these questions: RTP and volatility, the top games, and practical tips for playing. 

What Are Megaways Slots?

Standard slot games are played on a fixed grid with a fixed number of paylines. Megaways slots, in contrast, change the game rules entirely. But what exactly are Megaways slots? In short, it’s a revolutionary shifting-reel engine, which transforms the traditional gaming experience by making the layout dynamic.

Moreover, with such slots, players experience a changing game board rather than the exact same grid. Without a doubt, it instantly increases the number of potential winning paths, which are reset with every spin. In the end, we have a fast-paced alternative to classic slots, which isn’t limited to traditional lines or ways to win.

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How the Megaways Mechanic Works

But how do Megaways slots work? The secret lies in a random reel modifier. It changes the number of symbols per reel on every spin (usually 2 to 7). In other words, the number of ways to win changes with each spin. Moreover, when all six reels expand to their maximum capacity of 7 symbols, the game unlocks the standard Megaways peak (117,649 ways to win). In the end, in Megaways slot machines, wins are formed by matching symbols on adjacent reels from left to right, unlike traditional slots with precise geometric lines. So, is that why Megaways slots are popular?

Why Megaways Slots Are So Popular

Well, in fact, there are a number of reasons. First, as we already mentioned, Megaways slot machines offer more ways to win than traditional slots. No less important is the constantly changing, unpredictable gameplay. Another reason lies in their high win potential, driven by high maximum payouts. In the end, Megaways slots offer exciting bonus features and a wide range of themes, ensuring every player can find the slot that suits them best.

How the 117,649 Ways to Win Work

As you can see from our Megaways slots explained guide, there is nothing complicated about these slot machines. At the same time, the question of “How do Megaways slots work?” remains. Additionally, where can we get a noticeable 117,649 ways to win? In fact, this is the result of a very simple mathematical formula that is directly related to the reels.

Calculating the Ways to Win

To determine the total number of ways to win, simply multiply the number of symbols on each reel. For example, 7 symbols on each of 6 reels equals 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 = 117,649 ways to win.

If you want to get Megaways slots explained properly, it’s helpful to understand that 117,649 is the basic setup for Megaways slots. At the same time, some titles push past 200,000 ways to win. It’s possible by adding a seventh reel or allowing individual reels to expand up to 10 symbols high.

Megaways vs Traditional Paylines

Still wondering how do Megaways slots work and why they’re so revolutionary? The key detail lies in the mechanics. Traditional slots have fixed paylines, such as 10, 20 or 50 paylines. Megaways removes the idea of fixed paylines and instead has a variable ways to win system. In addition, wins are calculated by identical symbols landing on adjacent reels from left to right. The symbol’s vertical position or size doesn’t matter. In the end, it allows the game to offer the mentioned number of winning ways.

Key Features of Megaways Slots

Of course, the shifting-reel engine isn’t the only mechanic you’ll encounter throughout the game. At the same time, what are the key features of Megaways slots? In fact, there are a number of them that transform a single spin into a dynamic result you see on the display.

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Cascading Reels

The first key feature in the “How do Megaways slots work?” part is undoubtedly cascading reels. As a result, winning symbols disappear, and new symbols drop into the empty spaces. If the additional symbols create new winning combinations, those symbols also disappear. This process repeats itself many times. It results in a string of wins from one spin. 

Win Multipliers

There are also win multipliers, which make the cascading reels even more effective. These multipliers often climb with each cascade, especially during free spins. In the end, it allows you to increase your win.

Free Spins and Bonus Rounds

Another key feature is free spins and bonus rounds. While it’s a staple option, they frequently paired with unlimited multipliers. Besides, even in the case of a loss, these multipliers don’t disappear. In other words, the final few spins of a bonus round can unlock the game’s peak payout potential.

Special Symbols

Last but not least is the availability of special symbols such as wilds, scatters, and mystery symbols. In general, they share a different feature. For example, wilds serve as standard-paying symbols to complete winning combinations. Scatters unlock the free spins and bonus features. Mystery symbols usually transform into the exact same randomly selected matching symbol. While all these symbols differ in type, their goal remains the same: increase the number of active Megaways combinations and lead to a massive win.

RTP and Volatility in Megaways Slots

Another detail in our Megaways slots explained guide we should explore is RTP (Return to Player) and volatility. The great news is that most Megaways slots have an RTP between 96% and 97%.

At the same time, you should be ready for high volatility. It means that the game is characterized by fluctuations in your bankroll. In other words, during a session, you should expect periods of low returns, when several consecutive spins yield only small wins or none at all.

Playing Megaways slots requires patience and a solid bankroll to get through those periods without wins. The reward for taking this risk is of course the massive potential profit. When cascading reels and multipliers hit, it could result in huge wins. Overall, it is designed for players who prefer high stakes and equal wins rather than predictable small payouts. As a result, the essential part of your strategy is bankroll management.

Popular Megaways Slots to Try

While we already explored the key details, there is no less important part about these slots. What are the most popular Megaways slots, and how are they different? Let’s check the best Megaways slots below to find the one that suits you perfectly.

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Bonanza Megaways

Bonanza Megaways is undisputed among the best Megaways slots. Released by Big Time Gaming in late 2016, this title brought the shifting-reel mechanic to worldwide attention. It features a gold-mining theme complete with an acoustic soundtrack. Also, it has 6 reels and up to 117,649 ways to win.

Bonanza features a unique layout that includes a set of four mine carts rolling above the main grid. Overall, it remains the gold standard for the genre thanks to the iconic “G-O-L-D” scatter system, which triggers free spins with an unlimited win multiplier.

Extra Chilli Megaways

The other title we should include among the best Megaways slots is Extra Chilli Megaways, which evokes the atmosphere of a lively Mexican market. This title is known for its free spins round and bonus buy option. It allows players to bypass the base game entirely to purchase direct entry into the free spins round.

Gonzo’s Quest Megaways

Gonzo’s Quest Megaways is a great example of a modern Megaways take on a classic slot. This title offers the theme of the Spanish conquistador searching for Eldorado. Being among the best Megaways slots, it smoothly blends high-quality graphics with the classic “Avalanche multiplier,” which can reach an impressive 15x during the Free Falls bonus round. As a result, players have huge winning opportunities.

Overall, all Megaways games share the same core mechanic. At the same time, they differ in theme, features, and maximum win.

Tips for Playing Megaways Slots Safely

For players who are looking for guides about how do Megaways slots work, the tips for playing them safely are a must-have. The main reason is that these slots are dynamic and fast-paced. And, of course, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of shifting reels and cascading wins. Follow the tips below to help keep the experience fun and safe. 

Always check the RTP and volatility before you play. As we mentioned before, the RTP is ideally at 96% or higher. Checking such information before the session helps set realistic expectations.

Also, it could be helpful to try the demo version first. Playing a few dozen risk-free spins lets you find the answer to one specific question: How do these Megaways slots work in practice? As a bonus, you will not even touch your bankroll.

In continuation of the bankroll topic, it is essential to manage it properly. Since even the best Megaways slots are high-volatility games, it is easy to lose everything quickly. For example, you can use the rule of lowering your bet size per spin compared to what you would wager on a low-volatility slot. In other words, make sure your total bankroll covers at least 100–150 spins. It will give you the time you need to get through losing streaks.

No less important is to set win and loss limits and stick to them. Self-control is a powerful ally in any casino game. Before the game session, decide how much you are willing to lose and the profit level you would like to achieve. Once you face either result, close the game.

In the end, treat Megaways slots as entertainment. It is vital to remember that none of that is a reliable strategy for making money. Of course, sometimes you can hit a jackpot, but it’s rather an exception to the rules. Don’t chase your losses and know when to take a break.

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Pros and Cons of Megaways Slots

Undoubtedly, any “What are Megaways slots?” guide should also include the pros and cons of these slot machines. Here we are ready to dig into the benefits of Megaways slots that make them so exciting and the downsides you should be aware of. 

Pros

First of all, Megaways slot machines offer a huge number of ways to win. As we mentioned earlier, there are 117,649 (and sometimes over 200,000) of them.

The second advantage is exciting cascading wins and multipliers. Due to the cascading reels, a single bet can trigger a series of consecutive wins. In combination with increasing win multipliers, the game’s pacing can rise significantly over a single spin sequence.

No less exciting is a strong big-win potential. In fact, Megaways offer some of the highest maximum payout limits in the online casino industry. It’s possible because of the huge number of active paylines that interact with unlimited multipliers in bonus rounds. Is it even possible to find some cons in such a case?

Cons

So, what are the disadvantages of Megaways slots? First of all, high volatility can quickly drain a budget. Megaways slots are known for their long losing streaks. As a result, it can quickly drain your bankroll. Especially if you don’t pay attention to your bet sizes.

One more detail we shouldn’t ignore is that the mechanics can feel complex for total beginners. Classic slots offer simplicity, while Megaways offer a visually chaotic, overwhelming experience. It’s possible due to shifting reels, numerous ways to win, and simultaneous bonus features.

Play Megaways Slots at Spinarium

Ready to experience the exciting shifting reels? Then be sure to visit Spinarium. Here, you can explore an exceptional collection of Megaways slots. Of course, it includes both Book of Cats Megaways and Aztec Magic Megaways. Moreover, here players can find a variety of titles and providers. Such a diversity ensures that everyone can find the game that suits their goals and preferences. Whether you want to test the mechanics in free demo modes or play for real payouts with our Megaways slots explained guide, on Spinarium, you will discover a brand-new way to spin!

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FAQ About Megaways Slots