What Is Megaways?
Megaways is a reel modifier system that changes the number of symbols on each reel with every spin. That shifting layout means the number of ways to win changes too — up to a maximum of 117,649. It’s one of the most recognisable and widely adopted mechanics in modern slots, used in hundreds of games from dozens of studios.
Image prompt: Animated or labelled image showing reels with varying symbol heights and a “ways to win” counter rising and falling.
How It Works & Where It Came From
Megaways changes how reels behave. Instead of fixed paylines or fixed reel sizes, each reel displays a random number of symbols on every spin — usually between 2 and 7. The more symbols appear, the more combinations you get. If all six reels show the maximum number (7), that’s 117,649 ways to win (7×7×7×7×7×7). Wins land when matching symbols appear on adjacent reels, starting from the left.
Megaways is often paired with cascading wins — winning symbols disappear, and new ones drop in, creating chain reactions.
This mechanic was created by Big Time Gaming (BTG) in 2016. The first title was Dragon Born, but it was Bonanza that truly launched Megaways into the spotlight. BTG then began licensing the mechanic to other developers, leading to a flood of Megaways slots across the market.
Image prompt: Reel diagram showing example spin combinations + BTG and Bonanza logos.
Studio Insight
Nick Robinson CEO of Big Time Gaming introduces you to Megaways!
Popular Megaways Games
Megaways isn’t tied to one genre — it’s used across everything from high-volatility adventures to fun, casual themes. Some standout examples:
-
Bonanza (BTG): The breakout hit that defined Megaways — gold-mining theme, with explosive chain wins.
-
Extra Chilli (BTG): Similar gameplay to Bonanza but with a gamble feature before free spins.
-
Gonzo’s Quest Megaways (Red Tiger): A reinvention of the NetEnt classic with a Megaways twist and Avalanche wins.
-
Vikings Unleashed Megaways (Blueprint): High volatility, free spins gamble, and huge win potential.
-
Monopoly Megaways (SG): Combines the Megaways mechanic with classic board game elements and a building system.
Image prompt: Horizontal row of game logos or cropped screenshots with short labels.
Why It Works for Players
Megaways appeals for a few key reasons:
-
Unpredictability: The changing reel setup adds visual variety and keeps players engaged.
-
Big Win Potential: The huge number of ways means room for big hits, especially during free spins with multipliers.
-
Cascading Wins: The chain-reaction mechanic creates momentum and a sense of progression.
-
Familiar Names, Fresh Feel: Older games get new life when paired with Megaways, drawing fans in with added depth.
Even for casual players, the mechanic is easy to grasp — spin and hope for lots of symbols.
Variants, Trends & What’s Next
As the mechanic has spread, studios have experimented with twists:
-
Power 4 Slots: Four Megaways reels spinning at once (Slot Vegas Megaquads).
-
Jackpot Hybrids: Games that combine Megaways with fixed or progressive jackpots.
-
Hold & Win Blends: Megaways plus respin-style features (Big Bucks Bandit Megaways).
-
Franchise Reworks: Classic games reimagined with Megaways, like Rick and Morty Megaways.
There are signs of market fatigue — many titles use similar maths or visuals. But BTG continues to innovate with new systems like MegaClusters and MegaPays, designed to push the concept further.