What Are Megaways Slots?
A plain-English guide to Megaways slots — the variable-reel mechanic, up to 117,649 ways to win, and why they play so differently to normal slots.
Megaways slots are the most popular slot format in the UK, but plenty of people play them without knowing what makes them different. Here is the plain-English explanation.
The variable-reel idea
A traditional slot has fixed reels and a set number of paylines — say 20. Megaways replaces that with a variable-reel system: on every spin, each of the six reels displays a random number of symbols, usually between two and seven. Because the number of symbols changes, so does the number of ways to win, recalculated fresh each spin.
Up to 117,649 ways to win
When all six reels land their maximum of seven symbols, the ways to win hit 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 × 7 = 117,649 — the famous figure. Instead of matching symbols along fixed lines, you win when matching symbols land on adjacent reels from the left. Our ways to win guide breaks down the maths.
Who created it
Megaways was invented by Big Time Gaming and debuted in 2016 on Bonanza. BTG licenses the mechanic to other studios, which is why you see Megaways versions from Pragmatic Play, Blueprint, Red Tiger and many more. Our history of Megaways tells the full story.
Keep learning
This guide is part of our wider library. To go deeper, read what are Megaways slots, how Megaways works and volatility explained. Every term is defined in our Megaways glossary, and you can put it all to work on our best Megaways casinos ranking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this guide specific to UK players?
Yes. Everything here reflects UK Gambling Commission rules as they stand in 2026, including the 2025–2026 changes to stake limits and player protection. We only cover UKGC-licensed casinos.
What are Megaways slots?
Slots using Big Time Gaming's variable-reel mechanic, giving up to 117,649 ways to win that change every spin. See our full explainer.
How many ways to win do they have?
Up to 117,649 on a maximum spin, when all six reels show seven symbols. The number changes each spin. See ways to win explained.
What RTP do Megaways slots have?
Typically 94% to 96.5%, but many ship in several RTP versions and the casino picks which to run. Always check the game info. See Megaways RTP explained.
Why are Megaways slots so volatile?
The huge number of ways to win and escalating bonus multipliers concentrate the return into rare big wins. See volatility explained.
Are Megaways slots fair?
Yes — at UK-licensed casinos they run on independently tested RNGs that cannot be altered. They carry a house edge, so they are fair but favour the casino over time. See are Megaways slots rigged.
Who invented Megaways?
Big Time Gaming, which launched it on Bonanza in 2016 and licenses it to other studios. See our history of Megaways.
What is the best Megaways slot?
Bonanza is the original; Fishin' Frenzy, Big Bass, Gonzo's Quest and Rainbow Riches Megaways are also hugely popular. It depends on the features and volatility you want. See best Megaways slots.
Can I play Megaways slots for free?
Yes — most casinos offer demo mode, a good way to learn a title before staking real money. See Megaways free play.
Did UK rules on slots change recently?
Yes — stake limits of £5/£2 a spin, independent testing and fund protection all apply to Megaways slots. See our 2026 rules guide.
How do you stay independent?
We earn affiliate commission on sign-ups, but it never affects our rankings, which follow the published method in our methodology. We only list licensed casinos and publish every correction.
How do I play Megaways responsibly?
Treat them as high-volatility entertainment, play at affordable stakes, set a deposit limit and never chase losses. Free help is on 0808 8020 133. See responsible gambling.