The Megaways slot game format changed the way players think about online slots. Instead of fixed paylines, Megaways titles use dynamic reels that can create hundreds, even thousands, of winning combinations on every spin. The result is fast gameplay, high volatility, and the potential for massive wins in a single bonus round.
If you’ve seen “117,649 ways to win” advertised and wondered what it actually means, this guide is for you. Let’s break down how a Megaways slot game works, what features you should look for, and how to manage your bankroll so the action stays exciting, not stressful.
1. What Is a Megaways Slot Game?
Megaways is a game mechanic originally created by Big Time Gaming and now licensed to many other providers. Instead of classic 5×3 reels and fixed paylines, Megaways slots use reels with changing symbol heights.
Typical setup:
- 6 main reels (sometimes more or fewer)
- Each reel can show between 2 and 7 symbols per spin
- All symbols pay left to right on adjacent reels
Because the number of symbols changes on every spin, the number of possible winning combinations (or “ways”) also changes.
Example:
If each of the 6 reels shows the maximum 7 symbols, the game can offer:
- 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 = 117,649 ways to win
Other Megaways slots may show 46,656 ways, 15,625 ways, or something similar, depending on their maximum symbol height and reel count.
2. How Wins Are Formed in a Megaways Slot Game
Traditional slots use paylines—you must land matching symbols in specific patterns. A Megaways slot game uses a “ways to win” system instead.
To win, you usually need:
- Matching symbols on adjacent reels starting from the left,
- With at least one matching symbol on each reel in the combination.
Because each reel can show multiple symbols vertically, you can land several winning combinations at once, sometimes with the same symbol appearing in different rows on the same reel.
This structure creates:
- Highly variable wins
- Frequent “small hits” mixed with occasional explosive connections
3. Core Features You’ll See in Most Megaways Slots
While themes change—from adventure and mythology to gems and animals—many Megaways titles share several key features.
A. Cascading Reels (Tumbles)
After a winning spin:
- The winning symbols disappear from the grid.
- New symbols fall from above to fill the empty spaces.
- If new winning combinations appear, the process repeats.
All cascades usually belong to the same paid spin, giving you multiple chances to rack up wins without paying again.
B. Mystery Symbols
Some Megaways slots introduce mystery symbols:
- They appear as a special icon on the reels.
- After the spin stops, all mystery symbols transform into the same random symbol.
This can create massive simultaneous matches if they reveal a high-paying icon.
C. Free Spins With Increasing Multipliers
Most Megaways slot games have a free spins feature, triggered by landing a certain number of scatter symbols.
Common structure:
- Hit 3+ scatters to trigger free spins.
- A win multiplier starts at 1x.
- After every cascade (or every winning spin), the multiplier increases by 1.
- The multiplier does not reset during the free spins round.
With enough cascades and a growing multiplier, even modest symbol combinations can pay huge amounts.
D. Bonus Buy (Where Allowed)
Some jurisdictions allow you to buy the free spins feature directly:
- Cost is typically 50x–150x your base bet.
- The next spin automatically triggers the bonus round.
This is a high-risk tool for experienced players. It can pay handsomely when the bonus hits, but it can also burn through your balance fast.
4. RTP and Volatility in Megaways Slots
Most Megaways slot games are designed to be high volatility:
- Long stretches of modest wins or dry spins
- Potential for enormous payouts when you hit the right bonus combination
Typical technical profile:
- RTP (Return to Player): around 96% (varies by title and casino setting)
- Top win potential: often 10,000x–50,000x your stake or more
Because of this, Megaways games are best for players who:
- Understand swings and variance
- Have enough bankroll to survive cold streaks
- Prefer explosive sessions over ultra-stable, low-risk play
5. How to Choose a Good Megaways Slot Game
Not all Megaways titles are equally enjoyable or transparent. Before you commit money, check:
A. Information Screen
Click the info or paytable button and look for:
- Listed RTP percentage
- Explanation of ways to win
- Details on bonus triggers and multipliers
- Maximum win (often shown as a multiplier of your bet)
If a game hides this information or makes it confusing, consider choosing another title.
B. Feature Balance
Some Megaways slot games are heavily focused on:
- Huge multipliers but rare bonuses
- Or frequent smaller bonuses with lower top payouts
Use demo mode to gauge:
- How often free spins trigger
- How rewarding the average bonus feels
Pick a game whose pacing and volatility match your personal preference.
6. Bankroll Management for Megaways Slot Games
Because Megaways slots can be very swingy, bankroll management is essential.
Step 1: Decide Your Session Bankroll
Before you start:
- Set a fixed amount you can comfortably lose.
- This should be separate from rent, bills, and savings.
Step 2: Choose an Appropriate Bet Size
Aim for at least 200–300 spins per session to give the game time to show its features.
Example:
- Bankroll: 90 units
- Target spins: 300
- Max bet per spin: 90 / 300 = 0.30 units
If you intend to use bonus buys, lower your base bet even further, because each purchase costs many times your standard stake.
Step 3: Use Win and Loss Limits
- Loss limit: a point where you stop if things go badly (e.g., half your bankroll).
- Win goal: a profit target (e.g., 60–100% gain on your session stake) where you cash out or at least withdraw part of your winnings.
Stick to these limits even if the game feels hot. Megaways slots can turn quickly.
7. Simple, Practical Strategy for Megaways Slots
There is no strategy that can beat the RNG in a Megaways slot game, but you can avoid common mistakes.
A. Don’t Chase “Almost” Bonuses
Megaways games often show two bonus scatters or near-misses to keep the suspense high. Remember:
- Missing the third scatter doesn’t mean a bonus is “due.”
- Each spin is independent, with the same chance to trigger features.
B. Be Conservative With Bonus Buys
Bonus buys are tempting but dangerous:
- They front-load your variance (big risk, big potential).
- Several bad bonuses in a row can wipe your balance.
If you do use bonus buys:
- Reserve only a small portion of your bankroll for them.
- Stop after a set number—don’t keep buying to “recover” losses.
C. Test in Demo Mode First
Before betting real money:
- Try the game in demo to see how it behaves.
- Check how fast your pretend bankroll moves up and down.
- Decide whether you actually like the theme and pace.
8. Mobile vs Desktop: Where to Play Megaways
Megaways slot games are usually optimized for both desktop and mobile.
Desktop:
- Bigger view of the reels and info panels
- Easier to read detailed paytables
Mobile:
- Play anywhere
- Touch controls make rapid spins feel natural
Whichever you choose, always:
- Double-check your bet size after changing devices or screen orientation.
- Ensure a stable connection, especially during free spins or purchased bonuses.
9. Responsible Gaming Comes First
The high volatility of a Megaways slot game can be thrilling—but also risky.
Keep these guidelines in mind:
- Treat slots as entertainment, not a source of income.
- Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose.
- Take frequent breaks to keep your decisions rational.
- Use casino tools like deposit limits, time reminders, and self-exclusion when needed.
If you ever feel gambling is affecting your mood, finances, or relationships, step away and seek professional support.
Conclusion
A Megaways slot game can deliver some of the most exciting sessions in online gambling. Dynamic reels, thousands of ways to win, cascading combinations, and escalating multipliers combine into explosive potential—especially in free spins.
You can’t control the symbols the reels give you, but you can control which Megaways titles you play, how much you stake, and when you walk away. With careful bankroll management, realistic expectations, and a focus on responsible play, you’ll get the most out of every spin—whether the game is in a quiet phase or a full-blown bonus frenzy.