Key takeaways
- Two to seven symbols per reel.
- Up to 117,649 ways.
- Usually cascading wins.
- Usually high volatility.
In shortA Megaways machine changes the number of symbols on each reel every spin. Multiply the counts together and you have the ways to win, up to 117,649.
The arithmetic
| Symbols per reel | Ways |
|---|---|
| 2 | 64 |
| 4 | 4,096 |
| 7 | 117,649 |
What comes with it
- Cascading wins.
- A multiplier that climbs with each cascade in free spins.
- High or very high volatility.
Who made it
The mechanic was introduced by the Australian studio Big Time Gaming in 2016 and is licensed to other studios. Megaways titles are reported in Coral's lobby.
More ways, same price
Ways change how wins form, not the RTP.
Keep reading: Starburst slot machine, PlayOJO slot machines, Slot machine finder and Return to player.
One spin, step by step
- Each of six reels lands between two and seven symbols.
- The counts multiply to give the ways for that spin.
- Matching symbols on adjacent reels from the left pay.
- Winners vanish and new symbols drop in.
- The cascade repeats until no new win forms.
Why they are volatile
Most spins land a low ways count and pay little. The large wins come from long cascades in free spins with a climbing multiplier, which are rare.
The name
Megaways is a trade mark; similar ideas from other studios go by other names.
Go further: Wild symbols, Sweet Bonanza vs Big Bass Bonanza and Fishing slot machines.
In other words
Megaways slots, Megaways slot machines and Megaways games all use the same licensed mechanic.
Keep reading: UK slot machine rules, Gates of Olympus vs Sweet Bonanza, High volatility slot machines and Fruit machines.
Slot figures are developers' published defaults, each confirmed against two sources; the version at your casino can differ. UK land-based stake and prize limits and online rule dates were checked against Gambling Commission and licensing authority sources on 6 October 2026. History follows commonly cited accounts. Offer terms dated 5 October 2026. How we check. 18+. Free help: 0808 8020 133 or safer gambling.
Frequently asked questions
What is Megaways?
A mechanic with a changing number of ways.
How many ways?
Up to 117,649.
Are they volatile?
Usually.
Better RTP?
No.