What are Megaways slots and how do they work?

We know that players are always on the hunt for the best no wagering slots promising big pay-outs. Here at No Wagering, we point you in the direction of the best titles at the best online casinos. 

Where better to start than with Megaways™ games!

So, what are Megaways slots?

Unlike traditional slots with fixed paylines, Megaways slots are a unique brand of slot game that offer a dynamic and variable system that can lead to tens of thousands of ways to win on every spin.

These enhanced winning opportunities mean that Megaways games have emerged as a thrilling option for players seeking excitement and potentially a big win.

First introduced in 2015, Megaways slots were developed by Australian developers, Big Time Gaming. 

How do Megaways slots work?

At the heart of Megaways slots lies the Megaways mechanic which alters the number of symbols appearing on each reel with every spin.

In contrast with traditional slots where the number of symbols per reel remains constant, Megaways slots feature a random reel modifier that changes the number of symbols on the reels This leads to a different number of ways to win every time. This dynamic set-up keeps players engaged by adding an element of unpredictability to the gameplay.

Different ways to win

In Megaways slot games, you can find reels with anything from 2 up to 7 symbols. The number of reels on Megaways slots can also vary and you may even find some games have an additional reel. This of course affects the number of ways you can win.

On average, most standard online slot games have 20 paylines, however, the majority of Megaways slot games have an incredible 117,649 ways to win, which of course is a huge incentive if you’re looking to land some big wins.

Which Megaways games should I play?

When it comes to choosing the best Megaways games to play, the options are vast and varied. With so many titles from several different developers, it can be tricky to pick one to play. Here are a few suggestions based on our experience playing all the Megaways games:

Bonanza Megaways

Bonanza Megaways was one of the very first Megaways slots to be launched and is still hugely popular. On top of its Megaways mechanics, this game also employs cascading reels. This means that winning combinations of symbols disappear to be replaced by new symbols, offering more chances to win. There are expanding win multipliers and a generous free spins feature that can propel you towards the maximum win of 10,000x your stake. Bonanza Megaways has an exhilarating mining-themed adventure and up to 117,649 ways to win.

Play Bonanza Megaways here:

Who Wants to be a Millionaire Megaways

This world-famous game show has been re-imagined as a thrilling Megaways title. In addition to 117,649 ways to win, you'll find exciting bonus features that closely mimic the show, such as the Hot Seat Free Spins, where you can climb your way up the Free Spins ladder by using your lifelines. Who Wants to be a Millionaire Megaways has a generous maximum win of 50,000x your stake.

Play Who Wants to be a Millionaire Megaways here:

Mystery Reels Megaways

Red Tiger Gaming's Megaways offering has proven to be another huge hit for the popular developer, as Mystery Reels Megaways takes all the best bits from a number of well-loved original Megaways titles. The classic and colourful slot theme is a real blast from the past with a nostalgic edge that makes this game an instant winner in our eyes. It also helps that this slot has a very high RTP of 98.06% and a maximum win of 10,000x your stake.

Play Mystery Reels Megaways here:

Key features of Megaways slots

Understanding the key features of Megaways slot games can enhance your gaming experience and maximise your winning potential. Here's what sets them apart:

Cascading reels

Many Megaways slots feature cascading reels, where winning combinations disappear to be replaced by new symbols cascading down from above, potentially leading to consecutive wins from a single spin.

Variation on traditional slots

While Megaways slots retain familiar elements of traditional slots, such as spinning reels and matching symbols, they introduce innovative mechanics like the Megaways system to give different numbers of symbols on each reel for fresh and exciting gameplay.

Ways to win and matching symbol combinations

The dynamic nature of Megaways slots means there can be a huge number of ways to win, offering players multiple opportunities to land winning combinations across the reels.

Scatter symbols and bonus rounds

Megaways slots often incorporate scatter symbols that trigger bonus rounds, such as free spins with increasing multipliers, providing additional chances to win big.

Free spins and multiplier bonuses

The inclusion of free spins bonus rounds and multiplier bonuses in Megaways slots adds to the thrill and excitement of gameplay, potentially leading to substantial payouts.

Progressive jackpots

Some Megaways slots feature progressive jackpots, where a portion of each wager contributes to a growing prize pool that can be won randomly during gameplay.

Where to play Megaways slots

Finding reputable online casinos offering a wide selection of the best Megaways slots is essential for an enjoyable gaming experience. Here are some of our favourite no wagering casinos known for their Megaways offerings:

Comparisons and differences between Megaways and traditional slots

Understanding the distinctions between Megaways and traditional slots can help you choose which games to play. Here's a brief comparison:

Dynamic gameplay: Megaways slots offer varying reel configurations and thousands of ways to win, whereas traditional slots typically feature fixed paylines and reels. There are pros and cons to Megaways slots:

Pros

• Increased win potential due to more ways to win
• Exciting bonus features like cascading reels and multiplier bonuses
• Diverse themes and unique mechanics

Cons

• Higher volatility compared to traditional slots, leading to potential fluctuations in winnings
• Complex gameplay mechanics may take some time for players to understand

RTP and winning potential

Return to player (RTP) is a crucial factor to consider when playing Megaways slots, as it indicates the theoretical percentage of wagers that a game will return to players over time. Megaways slots often boast a high RTP percentage, combined with strong winning potential thanks to their unique gameplay and innovative features.

Popular Megaways slots

In addition to the titles mentioned earlier in this guide, several other Megaways slots are well worth exploring. Some of these titles include:

Rick and Morty Megaways:

Developed by Blueprint Gaming, Rick and Morty Megaways immerses players in the wacky universe of the hit animated TV series, offering exciting gameplay with Megaways mechanics, iconic characters and great bonus features.

Monopoly Megaways:

Based on the iconic board game, Monopoly Megaways combines nostalgic elements with innovative features. This is an ideal choice for fans of Monopoly-themed slots.

Gorilla Gold Megaways:

Gorilla Gold Megaways transports players deep into the heart of the jungle for an exhilarating adventure filled with cascading reels, great apes and the chance to uncover untold treasures on the reels.

Not just Big Time Gaming who have Megaways

While Big Time Gaming invented Megaways slots, the success of the Megaways mechanic has seen many other online slot developers license it to add to their own games – giving many old favourites a new lease of life. Developers producing games using the Megaways mechanic include:

• Red Tiger Gaming
• Blueprint Gaming
• Scientific Games
• iSoftbet
• Relax Gaming

Conclusion

Megaways slots revolutionised the gaming industry with their dynamic gameplay, innovative mechanics and high winning potential. Whether you're a seasoned player or a newcomer, exploring the diverse range of Megaways titles can provide hours of entertainment and the opportunity to win huge sums of money. With their continued popularity and ongoing development, Megaways games are poised to remain a staple in the slots world for years to come.