By Verdict Casino Editorial Team · Updated May 29, 2026
In short: Megaways is a licensed reel mechanic invented by Big Time Gaming that generates a random number of symbols on each reel every spin, creating up to 117,649 ways to win. The constantly shifting reel heights make every spin feel different and allow for cascading wins that can multiply rapidly — but the same volatility that creates big moments also means long dry streaks are normal.
The core mechanic
A standard slot has fixed reels with a set number of rows — three or five rows
on every spin. Megaways breaks that rule. Each spin, every reel independently
and randomly displays between 2 and 7 symbols. With six reels each showing
a random height, the number of active ways to win changes constantly.
Reel height scenario
Ways to win
All reels at minimum (2)
64 ways
Mixed heights (typical spin)
Thousands
All reels at maximum (7)
117,649 ways
Cascading reels (avalanche feature)
Most Megaways games use cascading reels: winning symbols disappear and new
ones fall in to replace them within the same spin. If the replacements form
another win, the process repeats. Some games add a multiplier that climbs with
each successive cascade, which is where the largest payouts originate.
Free spins and unlimited multipliers
The bonus round in Megaways slots typically features:
Locked maximum reel height — all reels stay at 7 rows, keeping ways at
or near 117,649 for the entire feature.
An increasing multiplier — rises by +1 (or more) with each cascade and
never resets during the feature.
The combination of maximum ways and an uncapped multiplier is what drives
outsized wins in the bonus round.
RTP and volatility
Megaways titles are almost universally high volatility with RTPs in the
94–97% range depending on the specific game and operator configuration. Some
operators are permitted to run lower-RTP versions of the same title, so the
displayed RTP is worth checking before you play. For a full explanation of what
RTP means in practice, see our guide on RTP and volatility explained.
How Megaways compares to other formats
If you prefer wins that occur more regularly and with a different visual
structure, cluster pays slots work quite differently.
Both formats are popular, but they suit different playing styles and bankroll
strategies.
Where to play Megaways games
Megaways titles are available at most mainstream online casinos. Browse
our reviewed operators to find platforms that carry a broad
Megaways library and hold a valid licence.
Instead of fixed paylines, a ways-to-win system pays whenever matching symbols land on adjacent reels from left to right, regardless of position. More symbols on a reel = more ways. At maximum height (7 symbols × 6 reels) you get 7⁶ = 117,649 ways.
Are Megaways slots high volatility?
Yes, virtually all Megaways games are high volatility. Long losing runs between big wins are part of the design. The mechanic suits players who can sustain their bankroll through variance, not those chasing steady small wins.
Who makes Megaways slots?
The Megaways engine was created by Big Time Gaming (BTG), who license it to other providers including Pragmatic Play, Red Tiger, Blueprint Gaming, and iSoftBet. The branding and volatility profile are similar across licensees, but maths models differ.
How is Megaways different from cluster pays?
Megaways uses reels and pays left-to-right across adjacent reels. Cluster pays removes reels entirely — wins form when symbols group together in a connected cluster anywhere on the grid. See our guide on cluster pays vs paylines for a full comparison.