Megaways changed how slot reels behave by varying how many symbols you see on each spin. You may have spotted the word “Megaways” in game titles without quite knowing what it does or how it affects play.
This guide breaks down the mechanic in clear terms, explains how the number of ways is worked out, and looks at features you will often find in these games. It also covers the main developers behind the system, common myths, and how to read paytables so the key details are easy to understand.
Whether you are new to online slots or already familiar with them, the aim is to help you make informed choices. If you decide to play, stick to a budget that suits you.
How Do Megaways Slots Work?
Megaways slots use reels that can show a different number of symbols on every spin. Where a traditional slot might always display, for example, three symbols per reel, a Megaways game could show anything from two to seven or more, depending on the title.
Because the number of symbols changes, the number of possible ways to form a matching combination changes, too. This creates a layout that feels different from one spin to the next.
These games run on a random number generator, which ensures every spin is independent and unpredictable. Each title also sets its own ceiling for the maximum number of ways, often up to 117,649, though the exact figure varies. You will find these details in the game’s information screen and paytable.
If you choose to play, decide on an amount you are comfortable spending before you start. Next up, how are those “ways” actually counted?
Number of Ways and How They Are Calculated
In Megaways slots, ways are calculated by multiplying the number of visible symbols on each reel. If a given spin shows 4 symbols on the first reel, 6 on the second, 5 on the third, and so on, you multiply those numbers together to get the total ways available for that spin.
The maximum number of ways comes from each reel showing its largest possible stack of symbols at the same time. While many games top out at 117,649, others may set a different cap.
Unlike fixed paylines, matching symbols can land in any position on adjacent reels starting from the left. There is no need for them to follow a strict line pattern. Outcomes remain random on every spin, regardless of how many ways appear on the screen.
Those shifting reel sizes pair neatly with extra mechanics that can extend a single spin, which brings us to cascades and multipliers.
How Do Cascading Reels and Multipliers Affect Megaways?
Cascading reels remove symbols that formed a match and let new ones drop into the empty spaces. Each new drop creates a fresh chance for another combination within the same paid spin. Cascades continue until no new match appears.
Some games add a multiplier that increases after each cascade within a round. The exact behaviour depends on the title. In many cases, the multiplier resets between spins unless the slot’s bonus round states otherwise.
These features unfold automatically according to the rules listed in the paytable and are still governed by the random number generator. They can add pace and variety, but they do not change the unpredictability of results.
Cascades are only part of the picture. Many Megaways titles layer in other features that trigger in specific ways.
Common Bonus Features in Megaways Games
Megaways games often include a free spins round, typically unlocked by landing a set number of scatter symbols. During free spins, some titles boost multipliers after each cascade or tweak how often extra symbols appear.
Mystery symbols are another familiar feature. They land as a single type of placeholder and then reveal the same paying symbol across all mystery positions once the reels stop, which can help connect combinations.
Some slots include a “bonus buy” option that allows instant entry to a bonus round for an additional cost. This feature is not available in the UK.
Every game explains its features in the information section and paytable. A quick read there clarifies how triggers work, how features interact, and any limits attached to them.
With those tools in mind, it helps to see how Megaways compares with traditional payline slots.
What Are the Main Differences Between Megaways and Traditional Payline Slots?
Traditional payline slots use a fixed grid and pay only on specific lines. You need matching symbols to land in exact patterns that the game lists as paylines.
Megaways removes fixed lines. Instead, it pays for matching symbols on adjacent reels from the left, in any position, and the number of symbols per reel shifts from spin to spin. This change in structure leads to a variable number of possible combinations each time.
Bonus features often differ too. Megaways titles commonly include cascades, modifiers and adjustable multipliers within rounds, while many traditional slots keep a more static setup.
Structure aside, two figures shape how a game might feel over time: volatility and RTP.
How Do Volatility and RTP Influence Megaways Play?
Volatility describes a game’s pattern of payouts. High volatility slots tend to pay less frequently but individual outcomes can be larger. Low volatility slots usually produce smaller outcomes more often. This characteristic is set by the game designer.
RTP, or Return to Player, is a long-term theoretical percentage. An RTP of 96% means that, in theory and over a very large number of spins, £96 could be returned for every £100 wagered. It is not a prediction for any single session.
Megaways games come with a range of volatility levels and RTP percentages, usually listed in their info screens. These figures provide context for how a slot is designed to behave, but each spin remains independent.
To see how those rules are applied in a specific title, the paytable is your best reference point.
How to Read the Paytable and Payout Structure on Megaways
The paytable explains symbol values, how combinations are formed, and what each special symbol does. It also outlines whether cascades, multipliers, mystery symbols or other modifiers are present, and how they interact.
You can check which symbols pay the most and how many consecutive reels are needed to create a win. In Megaways titles, this will almost always mean matching from the left across adjacent reels, regardless of exact positions on those reels.
Most paytables also show the maximum number of Megaways and any payout caps. Spending a moment here helps you understand the rules before you play and gives a clear picture of what to expect.
It is also useful to know who built the game, and how the mechanic is licensed.
Popular Megaways Developers and Licences
Megaways was created by Big Time Gaming, which licenses the mechanic to other studios. Well-known developers such as Blueprint Gaming, Red Tiger, Pragmatic Play and iSoftBet have all released Megaways titles, often adding their own visual style or feature twists while keeping the core system.
In the UK, games must be offered by operators licensed and regulated by the Gambling Commission. This oversight includes testing for fairness and clear player information.
Choosing recognised developers and licensed operators helps ensure you are playing titles that meet these standards.
With the basics covered, it is worth clearing up a few myths that can cause confusion.
Common Misconceptions About Megaways
More Megaways on screen does not mean a specific outcome is more likely on that spin. The number of ways simply reflects how many potential combinations the current reel setup allows, and the result is still random.
Megaways is not a skill-based system. There are no patterns or strategies that can influence the random number generator.
Having more possible combinations does not guarantee higher long-term returns than other slots. RTP and the game’s payout structure determine that, not the number of visible ways on any single spin.
Slots do not operate in cycles or take turns to pay. Each spin is independent, so past results do not affect what happens next.
If gambling starts to affect your well-being or finances, seek support early. Independent organisations such as GamCare and GambleAware offer free, confidential help.
Play Slots Online at Bezy
If you want to explore a wide range of online slots, Bezy operates under a UK Gambling Commission licence, with checks in place for fairness and player protection.
You will find a broad mix of games, including jackpot titles, Megaways releases and classic-style slots. Whether you enjoy fast-paced features or simpler setups, there is plenty to try.
We also provide safer gambling tools such as deposit limits, reality checks and time-out options, so you can manage how you play in a way that suits you.
If this sounds good to you, feel free to create an account at Bezy to get started, add funds securely and browse the lobby at your own pace. If you choose to play, set sensible limits and enjoy Megaways as one part of a balanced approach to gaming.
**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.