What Are Megaways Slots? How Changing Reels Really Work

Megaways slots are one of the most recognizable slot formats in the US market today. If you have seen a game advertise "up to 117,649 ways to win," you have seen a Megaways-style title. This guide explains what are Megaways slots, how the mechanic works, and what to look for in the game info.

What are Megaways slots?

Megaways is a reel mechanic originally developed and licensed by Big Time Gaming. Instead of fixed rows, each reel shows a random number of symbols on every spin, usually between two and seven. Because the reel heights change, the number of ways to win changes from spin to spin.

How ways to win are calculated

Ways are counted by multiplying the number of symbols on each reel. On a six-reel game where every reel shows seven symbols, that is 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 = 117,649 ways. A spin with smaller reels might offer only a few hundred ways. Wins usually pay when matching symbols land on adjacent reels from left to right, in any row position.

Cascades and multipliers

Many Megaways games add cascading (tumbling) reels. Winning symbols disappear, new symbols drop in, and another win can form on the same paid spin. Free-spin rounds often add a multiplier that grows with each cascade. These features make the format feel fast, but they do not change the underlying math published by the studio.

RTP and volatility

Megaways games are typically medium-to-high volatility. That means long stretches without large wins are normal, and big results are rare. Check the RTP listed in the help screen, because the same game can be offered at different RTP settings by different operators. Read our RTP guide and volatility guide for the details.

What to check before you play

• The RTP shown inside that specific casino's version of the game
• The maximum win cap and any bet limits in the bonus round
• Whether a bonus buy option is offered (see bonus buy slots)
• Your session budget, set before you start

Megaways vs. classic slots

Classic slots use three reels and a handful of paylines. Megaways games trade that simplicity for constant variation. Neither format is "better"; they suit different preferences. Learn more on our Megaways slots page.

Informational content only. No outcome is guaranteed. Play only where it is legal for adults 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.