What are Megaway games?
The slot software system called Megaways was introduced in 2016 – and has helped revolutionise the online slot world.
Since then Australian-based concept has become one of the most popular and innovative features in slot game design across the globe.
How did Megaways develop?
Megaways is actually a behind-the-scenes game technology that now operates many top slot games. It was developed by Big Time Gaming (BTG), an Australian-based software provider for online casinos.
Big Time Gaming introduced the Megaways system in 2016 with the release of the slot game ‘Dragon Born.’ This featured a stunning dynamic reel structure with varying symbol heights on each reel – leading to a large number of ways to win on each spin.
The game was an immediate hit. Dragon Born quickly gained global attention for its innovative approach.
The success led to BTG allowing the idea to spread by licensing the Megaways technology to other game developers. This allowed them to incorporate the Megaways mechanic into their own new slot games.
By 2018 the popularity of Megaways games was soaring – following the release of smash-hit titles like ‘Bonanza’ and ‘Extra Chilli.’
These games showed that creating massive ways to win was a huge winner with online players.
The BTG developers introduced extra features like cascading reels, which even more excitement to the games.
This led to even more game developers securing BTG licenses to create their own Megaways slots. Players were treated to more and more Megaways games with different themes, graphics, and bonus features.
Some of the biggest names in the online casino industry, such as NetEnt, Blueprint Gaming, and Red Tiger Gaming, have now incorporated the Megaways mechanic.
Meanwhile the Megaways system has continued to evolve. Game developers are constantly pushing the technological boundaries to create unique and engaging Megaways experiences.
What exactly is Megaways?
A ‘game mechanic’ is the software behind online slot games. The Megaways mechanic introduces a variable reel structure to slot games, providing players with a large number of ways to win on each spin.
Megaways games offer extra exciting features including:
Variable Reel Heights
Instead of the traditional fixed number of symbols on each reel, Megaways games have reels with varying heights. This means that the number of symbols on each reel can change with every spin – leading to a different number of ways to win on each spin.
Dynamic Ways to Win
The number of ways to win is determined by multiplying the number of symbols on each reel. Some Megaways games can have hundreds of thousands or even millions of ways to win.
Cascading Reels
Many Megaways slots feature a special cascading reels mechanic.
This means that when a winning combination occurs, the winning symbols disappear, and new symbols cascade down to replace them. This can lead to multiple consecutive wins on a single spin.
Bonus Features
Megaways slots often come with various bonus features to increase the excitement, such as free spins, multipliers, and special symbols that enhance the gameplay – and increase the potential for big wins.
Features like these have helped the Megaways mechanic gain widespread popularity in the online casino industry. You can now find Megaways games with different themes and features offered by various online casino software providers.
Here are some of the most popular Megaways slots currently available:
Bonanza Megaways (Big Time Gaming)
One of the earliest and most popular Megaways slots, known for cascading reels.
Extra Chilli Megaways (Big Time Gaming)
The sequel to Bonanza, Extra Chilli introduced an innovative Feature Drop option, allowing players to buy free spins.
Gonzo’s Quest Megaways (Red Tiger Gaming/NetEnt)
This game combines the iconic Gonzo’s Quest theme with Megaways mechanic, to offer an exciting adventure – plus cascading reels.
Mega Fortune Megaways (NetEnt)
An adaptation of NetEnt’s classic Mega Fortune progressive jackpot slot with Megaways’ extra features.
Monopoly Megaways (Big Time Gaming)
A Megaways version of the classic board game with a unique twist.
Great Rhino Megaways (Pragmatic Play)
An African safari-themed Megaways slot with free spins, multipliers, and possible big wins.
Raging Rhino Megaways (WMS/SG Digital)
An adaptation of the popular Raging Rhino slot, this features the Megaways mechanic for extra fun.
Primal Megaways (Blueprint Gaming)
Set in prehistoric times, Primal Megaways offers a visually stunning experience with the chance for big wins.
Star Clusters Megaways (Big Time Gaming)
Known for its innovative cluster-pays mechanic combined with the Megaways engine, this offers a unique twist on traditional slots.
Fishin’ Frenzy Megaways (Blueprint Gaming)
A fishing-themed Megaways slot with free spins and potential for high payouts.
These are just ten of the scores of Megaways titles available to today’s online slot players. And the best news for players is that the system is still evolving – so expect even more great Megaways games to keep appearing at your favourite online casino.
