What is Megaways?
A patented slot mechanic developed by Big Time Gaming (BTG) where the number of symbols on each reel changes randomly on every spin, creating up to 117,649 ways to win. Licensed to many other developers.
In Depth: Megaways
Megaways slots use variable reel heights (typically 2–7 symbols per reel on a 6-reel grid). Ways to win = the product of symbol counts across all reels. With 7 symbols on each of 6 reels: 7^6 = 117,649 ways.
Key features in Megaways slots:
- Cascading/tumbling reels: Winning symbols are removed and replaced, potentially creating chain reactions
- Unlimited win multipliers: In free spins, multipliers increase with each cascade
- Typically high volatility
Popular Megaways titles: Bonanza (BTG), Extra Chilli (BTG), Gonzo's Quest Megaways (RedTiger), Book of Atem Megaways, Buffalo King Megaways
Related Terms
Cluster Pays
A slot mechanic where wins are formed by clusters of matching symbols (typically 5 or more adjacent symbols) rather than traditional paylines. Common in games with grid layouts.
Payline
A line across the reels on which matching symbols must land to form a winning combination. Traditional slots have 1–25 fixed paylines; modern video slots can have hundreds or use 'all ways pays' or 'cluster pays' systems instead.
Variance (Volatility)
Describes how a slot distributes its payouts — the balance between win frequency and win size. Low variance means frequent small wins; high variance means rare but potentially large wins. Also called volatility.