Megaways has become one of the most recognisable mechanics in modern online pokies. Developed by Big Time Gaming, the system changes the number of symbols on each reel with every spin, which means the number of ways to win can shift constantly. Most Megaways titles offer up to 117,649 ways to win, though some stretch far beyond that figure. Read more about this at mastercard pokies australia.
For Australian players, the appeal is obvious. Megaways pokies tend to combine high volatility with generous maximum win caps, and many titles now sit above 50,000x the stake. That combination of unpredictability and upside has made the format a staple at most reputable online casinos.
How the Megaways Mechanic Actually Works
Traditional pokies use fixed paylines. Megaways does something different. Each reel holds a random number of symbols on every spin, usually between two and seven. The total number of ways to win is calculated by multiplying the symbol count on each reel together.
With six reels showing seven symbols each, that produces 117,649 ways. Add a horizontal reel across the top, as many Megaways titles do, and the potential expands further. This is why two spins on the same game can feel completely different.
Most Megaways pokies also include a cascading reels feature. Winning symbols disappear and new ones drop in, which can trigger consecutive wins from a single spin. Free spins rounds typically come with increasing multipliers, and it is common for these to climb by one step with every cascade.
Volatility is usually high. Players should expect longer dry spells between wins, but also the chance of a single spin producing a payout worth hundreds of times the stake.
Top Megaways Titles Worth Trying
Bonanza Megaways remains the benchmark. Big Time Gaming’s gold-mining themed release offers 117,649 ways and a maximum win of 10,000x. Its free spins round has no fixed spin count, instead running until no more cascades occur.
Extra Chilli Megaways takes the same formula and adds a gamble feature that lets players risk their free spins for a bigger starting multiplier. Maximum win sits at 20,000x, making it a favourite among high-volatility players.
Gonzo’s Quest Megaways from NetEnt pairs a familiar Aztec theme with 117,649 ways and an unlimited multiplier during free spins. The maximum win reaches 21,000x.
Buffalo King Megaways by Pragmatic Play offers 200,704 ways to win, a step up from the standard configuration. Its maximum win of 5,000x suits players who prefer steadier sessions.
Sweet Bonanza Megaways and Gates of Olympus Megaways have both gained traction for their cluster-style visuals and multiplier-heavy bonus rounds, with caps reaching 10,000x and 5,000x respectively.
- Bonanza Megaways – 117,649 ways, 10,000x max win
- Extra Chilli Megaways – 117,649 ways, 20,000x max win
- Gonzo’s Quest Megaways – 117,649 ways, 21,000x max win
- Buffalo King Megaways – 200,704 ways, 5,000x max win
What to Check Before You Play
Return to player percentage matters more than most players realise. Megaways titles typically sit between 96% and 96.5%, though some versions drop below 95% depending on the operator’s chosen configuration. Always check the in-game information panel.
Bet sizing is equally important. Because volatility is high, a bankroll of at least 200 to 300 times your average bet gives a more realistic chance of reaching a bonus round. Chasing multipliers on a thin balance rarely ends well.
Finally, confirm the casino holds a valid licence and uses certified random number generators. A good Megaways game is only worth playing on a platform that pays out promptly and publishes its audit results.