Megaways
Megaways is a slot mechanic created by Big Time Gaming in which each reel shows a different number of symbols on every spin, so the number of ways to win changes each time, up to 117,649 on a standard six-reel game. Many studios license it, including Pragmatic Play.
By Mark SmithChecked Megaways is one of the most popular slot formats of the past decade. Instead of fixed paylines, the reels change height on every spin.
On a standard Megaways slot there are six reels, each showing between two and seven symbols. The number of ways to win is the product of the symbols on each reel. If the reels land with 7, 7, 7, 7, 7 and 7 symbols, that’s 7⁶ = 117,649 ways. If they land with 2, 3, 4, 3, 2 and 5, it’s 720 ways. Wins pay when matching symbols land on adjacent reels from left to right, in any position.
Most Megaways games add:
- Cascading (tumbling) reels, where winning symbols disappear and new ones drop in, allowing chains of wins.
- Free spins rounds with growing multipliers.
- Extra rows above the main reels on some titles.
The big number of ways sounds generous, but it doesn’t change the RTP. It mainly increases the volatility and the number of small “wins” below your stake (see hit frequency).
Try some popular Megaways slots in demo mode: 5 Lions Megaways 2, Big Bass Bonanza Megaways, Great Rhino Megaways and The Dog House Megaways 1000. Read RTP and volatility explained to choose a game that suits your budget, or browse all slots.
Frequently asked questions
How does Megaways work?
On each spin, every reel lands with a random number of symbols, usually two to seven. Multiply the symbols on each reel to get the ways to win for that spin; matching symbols on adjacent reels from the left pay.
Are Megaways slots high volatility?
Most are medium-high to high volatility. Big wins usually come from bonus rounds with cascades and multipliers, and many base-game wins are smaller than the stake.
Who makes Megaways slots?
Big Time Gaming invented and licenses the mechanic. Pragmatic Play, Red Tiger, Blueprint and many other studios release Megaways versions of their games.
Related terms
Mark has been writing about online gaming since 2007, covering everything from sportsbooks to casino and slot reviews, offering insights for players of all levels.