Megaways slots are games that use the Megaways gameplay system, which debuted in Big Time Gaming’s Bonanza slot in 2016. This system allows for tens of thousands of potential winning ways from a single spin. ‘How can that be possible?’ you ask. Keep on reading to learn more about Megaways slots and how to play Megaways slot games.
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What is a Megaways Slot?
The Megaways game system was developed by Australian development house Big Time Gaming (BTG) for their 2016 release called ‘Bonanza’. Able to boast up to 117,649 winways, Bonanza was able to blow other slots out of the water and caused quite the stir. In the following years BTG released more Megaways slot games, but, most excitingly for slot fans, licensed the concept to many of the top developers, allowing for even more Megaways releases infused with each developer's unique flair.
Nowadays many popular releases have their own Megaways variants, with the chances of winning ranging from a little over 5000 to over 200,000.
How does it work?
The distinctive 6-reel rolling reels format is what makes Megaways games stand out. This allowed the first Megaways game (and the majority of subsequent releases) to boast up to 117,649 win ways; though as BTG licensed the concept, it has been tweaked to offer win way numbers that are higher and lower than this value.
When you look at a Megaways game you'll notice a bar of symbols hanging above the reels. When you land a winning combination the symbols used will disappear from the reels and other symbols will cascade down to fill the spaces, followed by the symbols held above the reels. This can lead to multiple possible wins per spin, leading to chain reaction effect which feels both dynamic and exciting.
When no more winning combinations can be made the winnings from the spin are totalled up (and any multipliers applied), and the player will be awarded this total. This is why the symbols used in Megaways games seem to have far lower payouts than traditional slots (ranging from 10-50x for the high-paying symbols) as multiple wins are possible.
Megaways Slot Typical Symbols and Features
There are no particular Megaways-specific symbols to be aware of as the Megaways system operates as an add-on to the conventional slot formula. Which is one of the biggest draws for the system as players can enjoy Megaways versions of popular slots they already know and love.
Therefore, you will find the regular mix of wilds, scatters, multipliers, high and low-paying symbols, occasionally mystery symbols and bonus symbols. To learn the unique symbols utilised before playing, you can always refer to the paytable/gameplay information of the selected Megaways games.
Similarly, as it works as an add-on feature, the Megaways system can seamlessly blend with other popular features, increasing the games’ appeal to a wider variety of players.
- Cascading reels, also known as tumbling reels or avalanching reels, fill winning combinations with symbols from the reel above.
- Megaways games often increase the multiplier by 1x every cascade. In the regular game, this resets with each spin, but in extra features like free spins, it may become a limitless win multiplier.
- Megaways slots usually offer free spins or a respins bonus round, as well as other generic features like pick and win bonuses and gamble features.
- Alongside this, Megaways slots are often paired up with the proprietary systems of other developers. This means you can find Megaways slots that are part of the Jackpot King network, or those that use prize systems like the Cash Collect feature.
How to Play Megaways and Increase Your Chances of Winning
Playing a Megaways slot is just like playing any other online slot.
- Load the Slingo site on your preferred device and log in or sign up for an account.
- Browse our extensive selection of games and click on the slots section. For convenient browsing we have a subcategory dedicated to Megaways games.
- Browse this category and pick the game which appeals to you. Load the game, and check out the game rules before playing.
- Set yourself a budget and a time limit for your gameplay session and stick to it.
- Finally, spin the wheels; best of luck!
Despite the insane amount of paylines, winning on a Megaways slot is simple. If three or more symbols appear consecutively on adjacent reels, a winning combination will be formed. The symbols will disappear from the reels and symbols will tumble down to fill the empty spaces. If a winning combination is formed from these new symbols, then the process will repeat itself. This will continue until no new winning combinations can be made.
The amount you have won will be totalled up, and any multipliers won applied and then paid out to you. If no other bonus feature such as free spins has been activated you can then spin the reels again.
How to bet on a Megaways game?
- Load the Slingo site on your preferred device and log in or sign up for an account. Our site is optimised for play on all devices including mobile ones.
- Head to the online slots section of our games lobby and click on the ‘Megaways’ subcategory.
- Browse this category and pick the game you want to play.
- Load the game, and check out the gameplay rules and paytable.
- Set your wager by using the bet selector provided. This often comes in the form of +/- buttons, up and down arrows, or a slider.
- When setting your bet be sure to never wager more than you can afford to lose. Additionally, set yourself a budget and a time limit for your session and stick to it.
- When you’re happy with your wager, click or tap the spin button to start playing.
Megaways Slots Tips
Since Megaways slots are games of chance, there is no specific strategy to win; yet, there are a few fundamental guidelines to bear in mind to make the most of your gaming experience.
- Take note of paylines: While some Megaways games employ 5,000 to over 200,000 winways, most follow the 117,649 payline formula originally created by Big Time Gaming.
- Be aware of the volatility: Though there are some medium-volatile Megaways games available, most will have extreme volatility and you need to be aware of the impacts this can have on the gameplay experience.
- Play with the Best Math Model: Many slot games have many mathematical models capable of altering the RTP by up to 3%, make sure you’re playing at a top casino (such as Slingo) which uses the most favourable math model.
- Check the Game Page: As we mentioned, Megaways slots come in numerous forms, usually including free spins, respins, modifiers, multipliers, and more. Be sure to check out the game page or the in-game information page and/or paytable to learn about how the specific features included in your chosen game work.
- Always gamble responsibly: No matter which game you play, you should always game responsibly. Never take excessive risks or chase losses, and if you’re not having fun any more, walk away and end your gaming session early.
Conclusion
Megaways games are some of the most played online slots for a reason! More win ways often equals more fun, and because this concept isn’t limited to just one developer, players get to enjoy the Megaways slot experience with styles and themes from their favourite developers.
As it acts as an add-on to core gameplay, Megaways slots are pretty beginner friendly; just be mindful of the volatility, and keep responsible gambling practices in mind.
At Slingo you’ll find a huge selection of the best and most popular Megaways games all conveniently organised in one tab. Sign up and discover your new favourite Megaways game today.