What Are Megaways Slots and How Do They Work
Megaways is a revolutionary game mechanic patented by Australian developer Big Time Gaming (BTG) in 2015 that has fundamentally transformed the online slots landscape. Unlike traditional slots with fixed paylines (typically 10-50 lines), Megaways slots use a random reel modifier that changes the number of symbols visible on each reel with every single spin, creating a variable number of ways to win that can reach staggering heights.
The standard Megaways configuration features six main reels, each capable of displaying between 2 and 7 symbols per spin. The total number of ways to win on any given spin is calculated by multiplying the symbol count on each reel together. When all six reels show the maximum 7 symbols, you get 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 = 117,649 ways to win. When fewer symbols appear, the ways to win decrease accordingly. This creates a dynamic, unpredictable experience where no two spins feel the same.
Many Megaways slots also feature a horizontal bonus reel positioned above the main grid, typically sitting above reels 2-5. This additional reel adds even more symbols to the mix and can contribute to winning combinations, further increasing the theoretical maximum ways to win in some titles.
The Cascading Wins Mechanic
Nearly all Megaways slots incorporate cascading wins (sometimes called tumbling reels, avalanche, or reactions). When you land a winning combination, the winning symbols are removed from the grid and new symbols cascade down from above to fill the empty spaces. If the new symbols create additional wins, those symbols are also removed and replaced. This chain reaction continues until no new wins are formed.
Cascading wins are particularly powerful during free spins rounds, where an escalating win multiplier typically increases by 1x with each consecutive cascade. This means your first cascade pays at 1x, the second at 2x, the third at 3x, and so on — with no upper limit in most Megaways titles. A single free spin can theoretically produce 10, 15, or even 20+ consecutive cascades, each at a higher multiplier than the last. This is where the truly massive wins in Megaways slots originate.
For UK players looking for Megaways titles at slots not on GamStop, the non-GamStop casino market provides the added advantage of bonus buy features, which we cover in detail later in this guide.
Key Megaways Terminology
Ways to Win: Variable, up to 117,649 per spin. Cascading Wins: Winning symbols removed and replaced for chain reactions. Win Multiplier: Increases with each cascade during free spins. Mystery Symbols: Transform into matching symbols to create larger wins. Bonus Buy: Instant access to free spins for a premium (banned at UKGC sites).