MegaWays: How It Works, MegaWays Suppliers and The Best MegaWays Pokies
Megaways pokies have taken online slot gaming to a whole new level, offering exciting gameplay and up to 117,649 ways to win. Unlike traditional pokies with fixed paylines, Megaways shake things up by reshuffling the reels on every spin, creating a dynamic and unpredictable experience that keeps you on your toes.
In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about Megaways pokies. From how they work to what makes them so popular among Aussie players, we’ll also share tips to help you maximise your gameplay. Whether you’re new to Megaways or just looking to uncover their winning potential, you’re in the right place!
What Are Megaways Pokies?
At their core, Megaways pokies are slot games powered by a unique mechanic developed by Big Time Gaming. Unlike traditional slots with fixed paylines, Megaways games use a dynamic reel system where each reel can display between 2 and 7 symbols per spin.
This results in up to 42 symbols on the screen during a single spin if all reels show their maximum number of symbols. To the player, this creates a dynamic and constantly shifting grid where paylines aren’t preset. Instead, adjacent matching symbols on any reel mean a win—no need to set paylines manually.
This flexibility is a double-edged sword. On one hand, the increased number of winning combinations—up to 117,649 ways to win—offers thrilling potential. On the other hand, Megaways pokies are high variance. This means you might experience stretches of smaller wins or no wins at all, but when a lucky spin hits, it can deliver a massive payout.
This combination of unpredictability and big-win potential is what makes Megaways pokies both challenging and rewarding for players.
Key Features:
- Dynamic Reels: Each reel can display 2 to 7 symbols per spin.
- Up to 117,649 Ways to Win: The number of ways to win varies depending on the symbol count on each reel.
- Random Outcomes: Every spin delivers a fresh set of winning possibilities, keeping the gameplay unpredictable and exciting.
Features Commonly Found In MegaWays Pokies
MegaWays pokies draw on the best features from online pokies, and up the tempo with them.
You’ll find massive bonus rounds, tumbling reels, multiplier wilds and all sorts of other madness – and you’ll absolutely love it!
Bonus Buys
Because of the high variance of MegaWays games, a lot of the potential winnings are locked up in the bonus rounds.
To counter that slightly, MegaWays developers have given the option for casinos to let you buy straight into the bonus free spins round.
This usually costs you 100x or so the usual bet but can potentially pay out in the 1000s. Some bonus rounds will even let you retrigger the bonus round if you come out with 10x or less.
However, because buying access means your essentially betting a large amount these options fall foul of local laws on bet limits.
That means some casinos for Aussie players won’t feature this option – but a lot do.
Cascading
Cascading wins means that some (or sometimes even all, such as in Gonzo’s Quest Megaways) of your winning lines will fall down, or off screen, and be replaced with new symbols – for an extra potential win.
You can chain these cascades to create multiple wins over one spin. The name cascade comes from the word for a repeated waterfall. That makes sense, as a cascading reel is a way to get repeated wins. Easy!
Increasing Win Multiplier
Some cascading reels, often only in the bonus round but occasional every time, will give you a stacking bonus multiplier each time a line falls down.
So, if you chain 2 or 3 or more cascading wins, each one is worth 2x and 3x etc.
This can lead to some massive wins, especially with big MegaWays lines and Wilds in the mix.
Best MegaWays Pokies
The best MegaWays pokies Australian players can try will have 100,000+ winning lines potential, but also not be too complicated.
There’s a certain element of complexity here that can’t be avoided. Still, the best games will keep it fun and interesting without cluttering up your screen with too many mechanics at once.
Having said that, for the best payout potential bonus games and free spins are essential. MegaWays free spins rounds can provide some of the biggest prizes in online casino gaming, outside of dedicated progressive jackpot pokies.
1. Bonanza (Big Time Gaming)
Bonanza is a pioneering slot that introduced many players to the Megaways mechanic, offering an exhilarating mining adventure with up to 117,649 ways to win.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Max Megaways | 117,649 |
| Reel Structure | 6 reels with varying symbol heights |
| Key Megaways Features | Cascading reels, unlimited multipliers in free spins |
| Volatility | High |
Feature Mechanics
Each spin presents a varying number of symbols per reel, creating a dynamic number of ways to win. Winning combinations trigger cascading reels, where winning symbols explode to allow new ones to fall into place, potentially creating consecutive wins. Landing four scatter symbols spelling "GOLD" activates the free spins feature, starting with 12 free spins and an unlimited win multiplier that increases with each cascade.
Why It Stands Out
Bonanza's innovative use of the Megaways mechanic, combined with its engaging cascading reels and unlimited multipliers during free spins, set a new standard for online slots. Its dynamic gameplay keeps each spin exciting, making it a favourite among players seeking high volatility and big win potential
2. The Dog House Megaways (Pragmatic Play)
Building upon the charm of the original, The Dog House Megaways introduces the Megaways mechanic to offer up to 117,649 ways to win, all set in a playful canine-themed environment.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Max Megaways | 117,649 |
| Reel Structure | 6 reels with varying symbol heights |
| Key Megaways Features | Sticky Wilds, Raining Wilds |
| Volatility | High |
Feature Mechanics
Players can choose between two free spins modes:
- Sticky Wilds Free Spins: Wilds remain in place for the duration of the feature, increasing the potential for significant wins.
- Raining Wilds Free Spins: Wilds are added randomly on each spin, offering a more unpredictable but exciting experience.
The Megaways system dynamically changes the number of symbols per reel, making every spin unique and increasing unpredictability in base play. The free spins rounds capitalise on Megaways' potential by adding stacked wilds that remain locked or randomly placed, depending on the feature selected.
Why It Stands Out
Unlike traditional slots, The Dog House Megaways benefits from ever-changing paylines and enhanced wild mechanics that make each bonus round different. The choice of Sticky or Raining Wilds adds a strategic element, giving players control over their preferred level of volatility.
3. Extra Chilli Megaways (Big Time Gaming)
Extra Chilli Megaways adds a spicy twist to the classic Megaways formula, with up to 117,649 ways to win and an innovative gamble feature for free spins.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Max Megaways | 117,649 |
| Reel Structure | 6 reels with dynamic symbol heights |
| Key Megaways Features | Cascading reels, gamble feature for free spins |
| Volatility | High |
Feature Mechanics
The cascading reels feature means that every win removes the winning symbols, allowing new ones to drop in, potentially leading to chain reactions of wins. The free spins round is triggered by landing three or more scatter symbols, with an option to gamble for additional free spins before starting the round.
During free spins, an unlimited win multiplier increases after each cascade, making this one of the most volatile and exciting Megaways slots available.
Why It Stands Out
The gamble feature adds an extra layer of risk and reward to the traditional Megaways experience. The cascading reels and increasing multipliers create huge payout potential, making it an exciting choice for players who love fast-paced, high-volatility slots.
4. The Goonies Megaways (Blueprint Gaming)
Based on the cult classic 80s film, The Goonies Megaways combines nostalgia with the ever-changing reel setup of Megaways to create a thrilling adventure.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Max Megaways | 117,649 |
| Reel Structure | 6 reels with variable symbols per spin |
| Key Megaways Features | Mystery symbols, multiple bonus rounds |
| Volatility | Medium to High |
Feature Mechanics
The Megaways system ensures that no two spins are ever the same, keeping the base game engaging. Random modifiers such as Mikey’s Hidden Treasure or Sloth’s Win Spin can trigger at any time, adding extra wilds, multipliers, or mystery symbols to the reels.
The free spins feature is triggered by landing three or more scatter symbols, leading to one of six unique bonus rounds, each with its own Megaways-enhanced twist.
Why It Stands Out
Unlike many Megaways slots that focus purely on multipliers, The Goonies Megaways uses the mechanic to amplify random bonuses and interactive features, making it a more varied and entertaining experience.
5. Wheel of Fortune Megaways (Big Time Gaming)
Wheel of Fortune Megaways takes the iconic game show and supercharges it with up to 1,000,000 ways to win, offering one of the highest Megaways reel expansions in any slot.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Max Megaways | 1,000,000 |
| Reel Structure | 6 reels with expanding symbols |
| Key Megaways Features | Wild Megastacks, expanding reels |
| Volatility | High |
Feature Mechanics
The base game operates with up to 117,649 Megaways, but the real excitement comes in the free spins round. Before free spins begin, a spin of the Wheel of Fortune determines the starting number of Megaways.
During free spins, special expansion symbols can increase the height of the reels, potentially reaching up to 10 symbols high and unlocking up to 1,000,000 ways to win—one of the largest Megaways configurations in any slot.
Why It Stands Out
Wheel of Fortune Megaways pushes the limits of the Megaways mechanic by offering one of the highest maximum ways-to-win setups in the industry, making it an absolute must-play for fans of huge potential payouts and classic game show nostalgia.
Why Are Megaways Pokies So Popular?
Megaways pokies offer something for everyone. Here’s why they’ve become a favourite among Australian players:
✅ Unparalleled Winning Potential: With up to 117,649 ways to win, Megaways pokies vastly outperform the 243 ways found in many advanced traditional slots.
✅Unpredictable Gameplay: No two spins are alike, making every session unique.
✅High Volatility: These games are known for delivering massive wins, though less frequently than low-volatility slots.
✅Engaging Features: Many Megaways games include cascading reels, free spins, and multipliers to ramp up the excitement.
✅Variety of Themes: From ancient Egypt to outer space, there’s a Megaways slot for every taste.
A Note On Volatility
MegaWays pokies are nearly all, by the nature of the format, highly volatile pokies.
This means a large percentage will get very low wins, and probably won’t break even over a session. However, a lucky few players will eventually win thousands (or tens of thousands even) times their stake. That’s just how these games work!
Only go in with what you can afford to lose, and if you do get lucky and bag a massive MegaWays win – that’s a bonus!
If you’re looking to make smaller consistent wins, traditional slots might be more up your street. Or the ultimate game of low house edge – live blackjack!
A-Z Overview of All MegaWays Pokies
Pokie |
Supplier |
Max. Payout |
Max Megaways |
Bonus Buy Feature? |
RTP % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 88 Fortune | Shuffle Master | 10,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 96.27% |
| 1 Million Megaways BC | Iron Dog Studios | 45,000x | 1,058,841 | ✅ | 96.2% |
| Ali Baba's Luck | Red Tiger | 20,336x | 15,625 | ❌ | 96.09% |
| Bar X Safecracker | Blueprint | 50,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 95.50% |
| Battleship Direct | SG/Red7 | 2,500x | 117,649 | ❌ | 95.90% |
| Bonanza | Big Time Gaming | 50,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 96% |
| Buffalo Rising | Blueprint | 10,000x | 117,649 | ✅ | 96.50% |
| Diamond Mine | Blueprint | 10,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 96.43% |
| Dragon Born | Big Time Gaming | 25,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 95% |
| Dragon's Fire | Red Tiger | 10,470x | 117,649 | ❌ | 95.72% |
| Dragon's Luck | Red Tiger | 10,368x | 117,649 | ❌ | 95.69% |
| Extra Chilli | Big Time Gaming | 50,000x | 117,649 | ✅ | 96.41% |
| Eye Of Horus | Merkur/Blueprint | 10,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 96.31% |
| Fishin' Frenzy | Blueprint | 10,000x | 15,625 | ✅ | 96.12% |
| Flower Fortunes | Fantasma Games | 18,840x | 531,441 | ❌ | 96% |
| Genie Jackpots | Blueprint | 10,000X | 15,625 | ✅ | 96.52% |
| Gods Of Olympus | Blueprint | 10,000x | 15,625 | ✅ | 96.03% |
| Holy Diver | Big Time Gaming | 20,000x | 586,971 | ❌ | 96.39% |
| Hypernova | Reel Play | 8,640x | 117,649 | ❌ | 96.01% |
| Irish Riches | Blueprint | 10,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 95.93% |
| Kingmaker | Big Time Gaming | 10,000x | 16,807 | ❌ | 96.65% |
| Legacy Of Ra | Blueprint | 50,000x | 15,625 | ❌ | 96.01% |
| Leo Vegas | Blueprint | 50,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 96.5% |
| Lightning Strike | Blueprint | 10,000x | 15,625 | ❌ | 95.96% |
| Luck O' The Irish | Blueprint | 10,000x | 16,807 | ❌ | 96.76% |
| Machina | Kalamba Games | 26,000x | 46,656 | ✅ | 96.59% |
| Medallion | Fantasma Games | 12,331x | 46,656 | ❌ | 96.23% |
| Medusa | NYX | 50,000x | 117,649 | ✅ | 96.28% |
| Monopoly | Big Time Gaming | 15,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 96.39% |
| Mystery Reels | Red Tiger | 10,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 96.18% |
| Mystery Spin Deluxe | Blueprint | 10,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 96.00% |
| Paddy Power Gold | Red Tiger | 10,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 96.00% |
| Primal | Blueprint | 50,000x | 46,656 | ❌ | 96.76% |
| Raging Rhino | SG Digital | 10,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 96.18% |
| Rainbow Riches | Barcrest | 10,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 95.90% |
| Return Of Kong | Blueprint | 50,000x | 117,649 | ✅ | 96.03% |
| Safari Gold | Blueprint | 50,000x | 117,649 | ✅ | 96.50% |
| Slots 'O Gold | Blueprint | 10,000x | 15,625 | ❌ | 96.45% |
| Star Quest | Big Time Gaming | 20,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 96.9% |
| Temple Of Treasure | Blueprint | 10,000x | 117,649 | ✅ | 96.46% |
| Temple Tumble | Relax | 8,000x | 46,656 | ❌ | 96.25% |
| The Pig Wizard | Blueprint | 10,000x | 15,625 | ❌ | 95.75% |
| Tiki Treasures | Blueprint | 10,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 96.03% |
| Valletta | Blueprint | 10,000x | 15,625 | ❌ | 96.39% |
| Vikings Unleashed | Blueprint | 50,000x | 117,649 | ✅ | 96.5% |
| White Rabbit | Big Time Gaming | 10,000x | 117,649 | ✅ | 97.44% |
| Who Wants To Be a Millionaire | Big Time Gaming | 12,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 96.24% |
| Wish Upon a Leprechaun | Blueprint | 50,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 95.5% |
| Wolf Legend | Blueprint | 50,000x | 117,649 | ❌ | 96.21% |
Suppliers With a Licence To MegaWays Mechanics
Even though BTG created the MegaWays mechanic, they have now licensed it out to many others in the industry. The following pokies developers now also publish their own MegaWays titles, most of which you can find at Aussie online casinos:
Blueprint Gaming
Pragmatic Play
Playson
Stakelogic
Red Tiger
SG Digital
NetEnt
ReelPlay
NextGen
Relax Gaming
WMS
Games INC
Iron Dog Studio
Conclusion
Megaways pokies have revolutionised the way we play slots, combining innovative mechanics with engaging features. Whether you’re chasing cascading reels, exploring free spins, or just enjoying the dynamic paylines, these games offer endless excitement. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of Megaways and discover why they’ve become a hit among Australian players.
Ryan is our resident pokies expert. Not only does he provide readers with the latest insights, innovations and technology news related to pokies, but he also knows all there is to know about pokies game developers.
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