Megaways slots have become a familiar sight across online casinos, but many players are unsure exactly what the term ‘Megaways’ means or how these games work. The Megaways number shown on the screen often catches the eye, but it isn’t always clear why it’s important or how it affects gameplay.
This blog post explores what the Megaways number is, how it’s calculated, and what it tells you during play. It also looks at practical examples, how winning combinations and cascading reels work, and how a high Megaways number relates to payouts, volatility, and return to player (RTP).
You’ll also find a quick comparison with fixed payline slots, a look at common features such as free spins and multipliers, and some straightforward tips for choosing a Megaways game that suits your preferences.
Read on to learn more.
How Is the Megaways Number Calculated and Interpreted?
The Megaways number in a slot game shows how many possible ways there are to win on a single spin. Unlike traditional slots with a set number of paylines, Megaways slots use a system where the number of symbols on each reel changes every spin.
Every time the reels spin, each reel might display a different number of symbols. To work out the Megaways number for that spin, the game multiplies the number of symbols on all the reels together. For example, if there are six reels and each reel shows five symbols, the Megaways number would be 5 x 5 x 5 x 5 x 5 x 5, which is 15,625 possible ways to win on that spin.
The highest Megaways number possible in a game is often shown at the top of the screen, but the actual number changes with every spin. It simply reflects the potential combinations available each time the reels stop.
So what does that look like in real games? A few concrete examples make it easier to see.
Examples of Megaways Numbers and Way Counts
A common Megaways slot might have six reels, with each reel showing between two and seven symbols on every spin. If all six reels display the maximum seven symbols, the calculation would be 7 x 7 x 7 x 7 x 7 x 7, which totals 117,649 Megaways. This is the highest possible number of ways to win for that game.
If the slot reels show a mix of symbols—say, three symbols on the first reel, five on the second, two on the third, and so on—the total ways to win for that spin would be calculated by multiplying those numbers together. For example, 3 x 5 x 2 x 6 x 4 x 7 = 5,040 Megaways.
Some Megaways slots may use fewer reels or have different ranges for possible symbols on each reel, which leads to lower or higher potential way counts.
With the numbers in mind, the next step is understanding how wins are formed and what happens after they land.
Winning Combinations and Cascading Reels in Megaways Slots
Winning combinations in Megaways slots are usually formed by matching symbols on adjacent reels, starting from the leftmost reel. The position of the matching symbols on each reel does not matter, which is different from many traditional slots that require symbols to line up in set patterns.
Cascading reels are a common feature in Megaways games. When a winning combination lands, those symbols are removed from the reels. New symbols then drop down to fill the empty spaces, which may create additional wins in the same spin.
This cascading process continues until no more winning combinations appear. Each cascade is part of the original spin, and in many games, multipliers build during cascades or within free spins, enhancing wins that follow.
Those mechanics link directly to how a game’s payouts, volatility and RTP can feel over time.
Impact of a High Megaways Number on Payouts, Volatility, and RTP
A higher Megaways number means there are more possible ways for matching symbols to land on the reels during a spin. This increases the number of potential winning combinations, but it does not guarantee more frequent or larger prizes.
Payouts in Megaways slots are determined by the game’s paytable and features, not just by the number of Megaways available. Even with many ways to win, the size and frequency of payouts will vary from one spin to another.
Volatility describes how often and how much a slot may pay out. Megaways games are often designed with medium to high volatility, meaning wins may be less frequent but can be larger when they occur. Volatility levels differ between games, so checking this information first can help set expectations.
RTP, or Return to Player, is a theoretical figure that represents the percentage of total wagers a slot is designed to return to players, on average, over a long period. For example, a slot with an RTP of 96% is programmed to pay out £96 for every £100 wagered, on average, over an extended period. Actual outcomes in individual sessions may be higher or lower than the stated RTP.
With the core numbers covered, it helps to see how built-in features shape the experience from one Megaways game to the next.
Common Megaways Variations and Features
Megaways slots often include a range of features designed to make gameplay more varied. These differ between games but are commonly found across many titles using the Megaways mechanic.
Below are some of the most noticeable features, explained in simple terms.
Free Spins and Multipliers
Many Megaways slots include a free spins round, usually triggered by landing a certain number of scatter symbols in the base game. In a free spins round, the game awards a set number of spins that do not deduct from the player’s balance.
Multipliers are often paired with free spins. With each win or every cascade, the multiplier may increase, boosting the potential prize from any wins during that round. The specifics vary by game, so checking the rules helps to understand how the multiplier grows and whether it resets between spins.
Extra Rows and Split Symbols
Some Megaways slots add extra rows to the reels, which increases the possible number of ways to win. The layout may shift during play, leading to a larger Megaways number on certain spins.
Split symbols are another feature that might appear. These symbols can divide into two or more parts, allowing more symbols to be shown on a single reel and, in turn, lifting the total ways to win for that spin.
With these variations in mind, it’s useful to see how Megaways compares with traditional fixed payline slots.
Megaways vs Fixed Payline Slots
Megaways slots use a changing system where the number of ways to win can increase or decrease on each spin. The layout is more flexible, often with a different number of symbols on each reel, which affects the total ways to win for that spin.
In contrast, fixed payline slots have a set number of lines across the reels that do not change. In these games, wins are only counted if matching symbols line up along these fixed paylines. The number of paylines is shown at the start of the game and remains the same on every spin.
This means that Megaways slots may offer thousands of potential winning combinations per spin, while fixed payline slots always provide the same, predetermined number of ways to win.
Whichever style appeals, it pays to understand how fairness is maintained behind the scenes.
Fairness and Randomness in Megaways Slots
Fairness and randomness are key aspects of Megaways slots. Each outcome is determined by a Random Number Generator (RNG), which is regularly tested to ensure that every spin is independent and unpredictable.
This technology means the symbols appearing on each reel are not affected by past spins, and there are no patterns to follow. Licensed online casinos in the UK are required by the UK Gambling Commission to use certified RNG software for all slots, including Megaways titles.
Game fairness is checked by independent testing agencies. These organisations review and verify the accuracy of the RNG and the published return to player (RTP) rate, providing reassurance that all players have the same opportunities under the game rules.
Anyone who chooses to play should look for games available at licensed casinos, as this provides stronger consumer protection and oversight.
With that foundation in place, a few practical checks can make it easier to pick a Megaways game that fits how you like to play.
Tips for Choosing a Good Megaways Game
When comparing Megaways slots, start with the basics. Look at the number of reels and the minimum or maximum Megaways number possible in each game. This information is usually listed in the game’s paytable or help section.
Consider the return to player (RTP) percentage. This figure shows the theoretical payout over a long period and is a useful reference, though it may not reflect individual play. Volatility is another key point. Some games pay smaller amounts more often, while others may pay less frequently but with higher prizes.
Check any extra features such as free spins, cascading reels, multipliers, or bonus rounds. These shape the rhythm of the game and may suit different preferences.
It can help to try the free demo version of a Megaways slot if available. This shows how the game behaves without wagering real money.
If you decide to play for real, only stake what you can afford to lose and consider setting time and spending limits that suit your circumstances.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.