Megaways slots have reshaped what many people expect from online slots, but it is not always clear what the term actually means. With lots of numbers, features and moving parts on screen, the mechanics can feel confusing, especially for newcomers.
This guide explains what Megaways are, how the changing numbers are worked out, and why they shift during play. It also covers common features like cascading wins, reel modifiers and free spins, clears up frequent myths, and includes a simple number guide and key terms.
You will also find how Megaways relate to concepts such as volatility and RTP, so the whole picture feels easier to follow from start to finish.
What Does Megaways Mean?
The term “Megaways” refers to a game mechanic created by Big Time Gaming. In a Megaways slot, the number of symbols on each reel changes on every spin. That shifting layout means the number of possible ways to form matching combinations changes, too.
Because the reels show a different mix of symbols each time, each spin can have a different number of “ways” to win. The name “Megaways” reflects the potential for a very high number of combinations in a single spin.
As with all online slots, outcomes are decided by a random number generator. Each spin is independent and cannot be influenced.
How Do Megaways Slots Work?
Megaways slots move away from fixed rows and pay lines. Instead, each reel shows a random count of symbols on every spin, and combinations are evaluated from left to right across adjacent reels.
This layout means the number of possible combinations can rise or fall with each round. The total is calculated by multiplying the number of symbols showing on each reel for that spin.
For example, a Megaways game might have six reels, with each reel displaying between two and seven symbols. Depending on the reel heights in that moment, the total “ways” can vary from a few hundred to well into the thousands.
As noted earlier, results are determined by random number generation, so no spin can be predicted.
How Is The Megaways Number Calculated?
The Megaways number shown on screen is the total possible ways to match symbols on that spin. It is worked out by multiplying the number of symbols on each reel together.
If there are six reels and each reel shows five symbols, the calculation is 5 x 5 x 5 x 5 x 5 x 5, which equals 15,625 Megaways for that spin. If the next spin shows different reel heights, the total changes accordingly.
Because reel heights vary from spin to spin, the Megaways count naturally moves up and down as you play.
How Many Megaways Can A Slot Have?
The maximum Megaways depends on the game’s design. A common setup uses six reels that can each show up to seven symbols. In that case, the highest possible number is 117,649, calculated as 7 x 7 x 7 x 7 x 7 x 7.
Other Megaways titles may use more reels or different symbol ranges, which can raise or lower the ceiling. Many games list the maximum number on the information screen.
Reaching the maximum is never certain. It occurs only when all reels display their highest number of symbols at the same time.
Why Do Megaways Change During Play?
Megaways change because reel heights are set at random on every spin. Unlike classic slots with fixed rows, a Megaways reel can show a different number of symbols each time it stops.
As the reel heights shift, the number of possible combinations shifts with them. Some spins will show a larger figure, others a smaller one, depending on how many symbols appear on each reel in that moment.
These changes follow the game’s maths model and do not form patterns that can be tracked or influenced.
So, what do those moving numbers look like in practice, and how should you read them at a glance?
Megaways Number Guide: Common Examples And How To Read Them
Most Megaways slots display the current total clearly on screen, updating after every spin. This number shows how many potential combinations are available for that round.
For instance, if a six-reel game shows six symbols on every reel, the total is 46,656 Megaways (6 x 6 x 6 x 6 x 6 x 6). If one or more reels are shorter on the next spin, the total drops accordingly.
Some well-known titles can show 117,649 ways on a single spin, though it is normal for the figure to rise and fall from round to round. A higher number means more possible combinations for that spin, but it does not change how outcomes are decided.
If you want specifics for a particular game, the information screen usually lists the minimum and maximum reel heights, plus any features that can expand the reels.
Common Megaways Features And Mechanics
Megaways slots often include extra mechanics that interact with the changing reels. The exact mix depends on the game, but the features below are among the most common.
Cascading Wins
When symbols form a matching combination, those symbols are removed from the reels and new ones drop into the empty spaces. The game then checks the new layout to see if another combination has formed within the same spin.
For example, a win on reels 1 to 3 might clear those symbols, new symbols fall in, and the total Megaways is recalculated before the next check. Each cascade is still decided at random.
Reel Modifiers And Extra Rows
Some games add special reels or horizontal rows above or below the main grid. These can feed extra symbols into the reels, change reel heights, or add wild symbols to help form combinations.
Modifiers might appear on any spin or during bonus rounds, and they can temporarily raise the number of Megaways available for that round.
Free Spins And Multipliers
Free spins are commonly triggered by landing a set number of scatter symbols. During these rounds, the game may introduce a multiplier that increases the value of any matching combinations. In some titles, the multiplier grows with each cascade until the round ends.
Exact rules vary by slot, so it is worth checking the in-game help for how free spins and multipliers work in that specific title.
With the mechanics covered, it helps to see how they sit alongside the headline figures often shown in game info.
Do Megaways Affect Volatility Or RTP?
Megaways changes how many combinations can appear on a spin, but it does not directly set a slot’s volatility or RTP.
Volatility describes the pattern of outcomes over time, such as whether a slot is more likely to produce smaller, more frequent wins or larger, less frequent ones. Some Megaways games are high volatility, others are not. This is defined by the game’s overall maths model.
RTP is a long-term theoretical percentage that indicates how much of all stakes placed may be returned as winnings over time. For example, an RTP of 96% suggests that, across a large number of spins, £96 may be paid out for every £100 wagered. It is an average, not a prediction for any single session.
Game info screens usually list both the volatility description and the RTP so you can understand the model before playing.
Given the technical terms, it is easy to see how a few myths have taken hold.
Myths About Megaways Debunked
A frequent myth is that more Megaways means more wins. While a higher number shows more possible combinations on that spin, it does not guarantee a result. Outcomes are still determined randomly.
Another misconception is that patterns or strategies can influence Megaways results. They cannot. Each spin is independent, and previous outcomes do not affect future ones.
It is also untrue that all Megaways slots are high volatility. Many are, but volatility is set on a game-by-game basis rather than by the presence of the Megaways mechanic.
Key Terms To Know For Megaways Slots
A few core terms can make Megaways much easier to understand when reading game screens and help pages:
- Reel: The vertical columns that spin and display symbols.
- Row: The horizontal band of symbol positions across a reel. In Megaways games, the number of rows per reel can change on each spin.
- Ways to Win (Megaways): The total number of possible combinations for that spin. Calculated by multiplying the symbols visible on each reel.
- Cascading Wins: When winning symbols are removed and new ones fall into place, giving another check for combinations within the same spin.
- Reel Modifier: A feature that changes the layout or behaviour of the reels, such as adding extra rows, moving symbols or special wilds.
- Free Spins: A bonus round where spins do not reduce the credit balance. Often triggered by landing scatter symbols.
- Multiplier: A value that increases the payout of a win, commonly used in bonus rounds or growing with each cascade.
All outcomes in Megaways slots are decided by random number generation. If gambling starts to affect your well-being or finances, independent organisations such as GamCare and GambleAware offer free, confidential support.
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**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.