What are megaways slots? 

Megaways slots have transformed the world of online gaming, captivating players with their unique mechanics and potential for massive payouts.

The innovation revolutionized traditional slots, introducing a dynamic reel modifier that offers thousands of ways to win. Their versatility and high volatility attract thrill-seekers who crave excitement and big rewards.

With features like cascading reels and bonus multipliers, Megaways slots stand out as some of the best online slots available today. In this article, I’ll delve into what are Megaways slots, their history, how they work, and tips to help towards maximizing your winnings on top titles like Bonanza and White Rabbit.

History of Megaways slots

The concept of Megaways slots originated in 2015 when Big Time Gaming (BTG) launched “Dragon Born,” the first slot featuring the revolutionary Megaways mechanic. This unique innovation introduced dynamic reels where the number of symbols and paylines changed with every spin. A year later, BTG released “Bonanza,” which became a global phenomenon and cemented Megaways slots’ popularity. 

The mechanic, offering up to 117,649 ways to win, was later licensed to other developers like Blueprint Gaming and Red Tiger. This adaptability and variety transformed Megaways slots into a staple of modern online casino gaming, loved for their unpredictability and engaging features.

How Megaways slots work

Megaways slots use a dynamic reel system where the number of symbols on each reel changes with every spin. This unique mechanic creates varying paylines, ranging from hundreds to over 100,000 ways to win. Most Megaways slots feature six reels, with each reel holding 2–7 symbols per spin. Wins are achieved by matching symbols on adjacent reels, starting from the leftmost. 

Cascading reels, a common feature, replace winning symbols with new ones, offering multiple wins in a single spin. Bonus features like free spins and multipliers enhance gameplay, making Megaways slots an exciting alternative to traditional slot games.

Popular Megaways slot games

Megaways slots are celebrated for their unique themes and high RTPs. From mining adventures to Aztec civilizations, these games offer diverse experiences with thousands of ways to win.

White Rabbit Megaways

White Rabbit Megaways is a visually stunning slot inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. Developed by Big Time Gaming, it features up to 248,832 ways to win through expanding reels. Players can trigger the Free Spins feature by landing three scatter symbols, leading to a bonus round with expanding reels and increased paylines. 

The “Feature Drop” mechanic lets players buy into the bonus game, bypassing the wait. With its exceptional RTP of 97.24%, cascading reels, and vibrant theme, White Rabbit Megaways is both engaging and rewarding, offering thrilling gameplay and impressive win potential.

Temple Tumble Megaways

Temple Tumble Megaways, developed by Relax Gaming, features a 6×6 grid and up to 46,656 ways to win. Set in an Aztec-themed jungle, the game includes cascading reels, where winning symbols are replaced by new ones for consecutive wins.

Players aim to destroy stone blocks to trigger the Free Spins feature, offering three volatility options: extra spins, multipliers, or a mix of both. With high volatility and a max win of 7,767x your stake, the game combines engaging visuals with strategic gameplay.

Who Wants to Be a Millionaire Megaways

Based on the iconic game show, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire Megaways by Big Time Gaming features 117,649 paylines and immersive gameplay. Players can enjoy cascading wins, with symbols disappearing to allow new combinations.

Its Free Spins feature mimics the game show’s lifelines, offering up to 50 spins and a progressive multiplier for increased rewards. With an RTP of 96.27%, engaging visuals, and medium volatility, this slot delivers both excitement and substantial win potential.

Bonanza Megaways

Bonanza Megaways, created by Big Time Gaming, is a highly engaging mining-themed slot with 6 reels and up to 117,649 paylines. The game introduced cascading reels and the Megaways mechanic to the mainstream, making it a classic.

Its Free Spins feature includes an unlimited win multiplier that increases with each cascading win, creating significant payout potential. Purple diamonds, the highest-paying symbols, add excitement to the gameplay.

With an RTP of 96% and a maximum win of 26,000x your stake, Bonanza remains a favorite among Megaways enthusiasts.

Aztec Gold Megaways 

Aztec Gold Megaways, developed by iSoftBet, features a 6-reel grid and up to 117,649 ways to win. The game combines a Mesoamerican theme with vibrant graphics and cascading wins. Its standout feature is the Aztec Gold Cash Respin, activated by landing five or more Sun Disc scatters.

This bonus round offers respins, locked symbols, and multipliers, with potential jackpot wins (Mini, Major, Mega). The game has a medium-high volatility and an RTP of 95.99%, with a maximum win of 19,200x your stake. Its immersive visuals and lucrative features make it a favorite for players seeking big rewards.

Advantages of playing Megaway slots

Megaways slots offer dynamic gameplay and high win potential, making them a favorite among players. Key advantages include:

• Thousands of Paylines: Up to 117,649 ways to win on most games, ensuring frequent payouts.
• Dynamic Reels: Changing symbol count on each reel keeps gameplay exciting.
• Cascading Wins: Winning symbols are replaced with new ones, enabling multiple wins from a single spin.
• High RTP: Many Megaways slots feature RTPs above 96%, offering better returns.
• Variety: A wide range of themes and features cater to all player preferences.
• Bonus Features: Free spins, multipliers, and progressive jackpots enhance winning potential.

Megaway slots vs traditional slots

Megaways slots revolutionize online gameplay with dynamic reels and thousands of ways to win, unlike traditional slots with their standard fixed paylines. In Megaways, each spin changes the number of symbols per reel, offering up to 117,649 paylines. Traditional slots, on the other hand, feature a static number of reels, rows, and paylines.

Megaways slots often include features like cascading wins and progressive multipliers, enhancing win potential. Traditional slots typically rely on simpler mechanics and bonus rounds. While traditional slots appeal to players seeking straightforward gameplay, Megaways slots attract those craving dynamic action and higher volatility for greater rewards.

Tips on maximising winnings with Megaway slots

Boost your chances of winning in Megaways slots with these effective strategies:

• Choose High RTP Games: Opt for slots with RTP above 96% for better long-term returns.
• Leverage Bonuses: Use free spins and deposit bonuses offered by online casinos to extend gameplay.
• Bet Strategically: Start with smaller bets to understand the game mechanics before increasing stakes.
• Target Cascading Wins: Play slots with cascading reels for multiple win opportunities in a single spin.
• Utilize Features: Look for games with multipliers, free spins, and bonus buys to maximize rewards.
• Set Limits: Stick to a budget and play responsibly to ensure a positive experience.

FAQ

How is the RTP calculated for Megaways slots?

The RTP (Return to Player) is calculated as a percentage of total wagers returned to players over time. For example, a slot with 96% RTP gives back £96 for every £100 wagered, on average. This figure is theoretical and calculated over millions of spins to ensure accuracy.

What features do Megaways slots offer?

Megaways slots include dynamic reels with up to 117,649 ways to win, cascading wins where symbols are replaced for consecutive payouts, and free spins with multipliers for increased rewards. Additional features often include bonus rounds, wilds, scatters, and the option to buy into bonuses, enhancing gameplay and win potential.

What is the maximum number of paylines in a Megaways slot?

The maximum number of paylines in a Megaways slot depends on the game. Most titles offer up to 117,649 ways to win, achieved with six reels and a maximum of seven symbols per reel. Some games, like White Rabbit Megaways, extend this to 248,832 paylines, delivering even greater winning potential.

Do Megaways slots have bonus rounds?

Yes, Megaways slots often feature exciting bonus rounds. These typically include free spins with progressive multipliers, triggered by landing scatter symbols. Some games also offer cascading reels during bonuses, increasing win potential. Additionally, many Megaways slots provide a “Bonus Buy” option, letting players access bonus features instantly for a fee.

About the author

Daniel Smyth

Daniel Smyth has seen the online poker, casino, and betting industry from every angle. He previously played poker semi-professionally before working at WPT Magazine as a writer and editor. From there, he transitioned to online gaming where he’s been producing expert content for over 10 years.

Follow Daniel on Twitter @DanSmythThePoet

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