Megaways Slots Explained: How the Mechanic Works
Definition
A patented slot mechanic by Big Time Gaming that uses randomly changing reel heights to create a varying number of ways to win per spin, up to 117,649.
Full Explanation
Megaways is a game mechanic patented by Australian developer Big Time Gaming (BTG) and licensed to dozens of other studios. Instead of fixed paylines, Megaways games use a variable reel system where each reel can display 2-7 symbols per spin.
With 6 reels each showing up to 7 symbols, the maximum possible ways to win is 7^6 = 117,649. The actual number changes with every spin, displayed prominently on screen.
Wins are calculated by landing matching symbols on adjacent reels from left to right, regardless of position — as long as you have one of that symbol on each consecutive reel.
Key Megaways features: - **Cascading/Avalanche reels**: Winning symbols disappear and are replaced by new ones, potentially creating chain wins - **Unlimited win multiplier**: Often builds during free spins, resetting between spins - **Bonus Buy**: Many Megaways games offer the ability to purchase the bonus round directly
Megaways games are typically high-to-very-high volatility with high maximum win potential (often 10,000x-50,000x your stake).
Why It Matters
Megaways games are among the most popular in the industry because the variable win-ways mechanic creates genuine excitement with each spin. However, their high volatility means they require a larger bankroll buffer. The bonus buy feature can deplete a bankroll quickly if misused.
Real-World Example
Big Bass Megaways by Pragmatic Play has up to 117,649 ways to win. Each spin, the reels show different heights. During free spins with unlimited multipliers, a single spin can pay thousands of times the stake — but base game runs can go 200+ spins without significant wins.
Related Terms
Volatility (Slot Variance)
A measure of risk in a slot game that describes how frequently it pays and the size of wins. High volatility = rare but large wins. Low volatility = frequent but smaller wins.
RTP (Return to Player)
The percentage of all wagered money that a slot or casino game will pay back to players over time, typically calculated over millions of spins.
Bonus Buy (Feature Buy)
A slot feature allowing players to pay a set multiple of their stake (usually 50-100x) to immediately trigger the bonus round or free spins feature, skipping the base game.
Ready to put this knowledge to use?
Compare the best online casinos with transparent RTP, fair bonuses, and full licence details.
Compare Casinos