What Are Megaways Slots?
Megaways is a patented slot engine developed by Big Time Gaming (BTG), first introduced in 2016. It fundamentally changed how reels work by making the number of symbols on each reel change randomly on every single spin. This creates a dynamic, ever-changing number of "ways to win" — which is why the mechanic is considered one of the most significant innovations in modern slot design.
Traditional Slots vs. Megaways Slots
| Feature | Traditional Slot | Megaways Slot |
|---|---|---|
| Paylines | Fixed (e.g., 10, 20, 25) | No fixed paylines |
| Symbols per reel | Fixed (usually 3 rows) | Variable (2–7 per reel, per spin) |
| Ways to win | Fixed number | Up to 117,649 (or more) |
| Reel layout | Static grid | Changes on every spin |
How the Dynamic Reel System Works
In a standard 6-reel Megaways slot, each reel can display between 2 and 7 symbols per spin. The number shown on each reel is randomly determined at the start of that spin. Here's why that matters:
- If all 6 reels show 7 symbols each, that gives: 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 = 117,649 ways to win
- If reels show fewer symbols (e.g., 2 or 3), the ways to win that spin are much lower
- Wins pay when matching symbols appear on adjacent reels from left to right, in any position on those reels
This means every spin is visually distinct and the win potential literally changes shape before your eyes.
Common Megaways Features
Most Megaways titles include additional mechanics that pair well with the dynamic reel system:
Cascading / Avalanche Reels
After a winning combination, the winning symbols disappear and new symbols fall from above to fill the gaps. This can create chain reactions of consecutive wins from a single spin.
Increasing Multipliers
Each consecutive cascade win in a chain typically increases a win multiplier. So the first win might pay at 1x, the second at 2x, the third at 3x, and so on — with no cap during the free spins round in many titles.
Free Spins with Unlimited Multiplier
The bonus round in Megaways games frequently combines cascading wins with a multiplier that doesn't reset between spins. This is the engine behind the game type's potential for very large wins.
Reaction/Tumble Feature
Different developers use different names (Reactions, Tumbles, Avalanches), but the principle is the same — winning symbols are removed and replaced, giving multiple win opportunities per spin.
Popular Megaways Titles to Learn From
Several slots are widely cited as landmark Megaways releases worth studying for their mechanical design:
- Bonanza Megaways (Big Time Gaming) — the original and genre-defining Megaways title
- Extra Chilli Megaways (Big Time Gaming) — added a "buy feature" option
- Legacy of Dead Megaways (Play'n GO) — blends Megaways with book-style expanding symbols
- Gonzo's Quest Megaways (Red Tiger/NetEnt) — cascading reels meet Megaways
Is Megaways High Volatility?
Yes — the vast majority of Megaways slots are classified as high volatility. The combination of variable ways to win, cascading wins, and multiplier-driven bonus rounds creates a game profile where wins can vary enormously from session to session. Players should factor this into their bankroll planning and stake selection.
The Megaways Legacy
Big Time Gaming licenses the Megaways engine to other developers, which is why you'll find Megaways versions of many classic titles. The mechanic's influence on modern slot design is undeniable — it shifted player expectations and inspired a wave of alternative "ways to win" engine designs across the industry.