Online slot gaming has witnessed numerous evolutionary stages, one of which is the incorporation of 'Megaways', a novel feature that has significantly modified the landscape of online slot games.
Pioneered by the Australian software developer Big Time Gaming, the 'Megaways' concept has introduced a dynamic twist to the traditional static structure of slot games.
What Is The Megaways Feature In Slots?
Megaways, a unique game mechanic, offers a changing number of ways to win on each spin, potentially escalating to hundreds of thousands. Unlike traditional slots, which have a static structure with a fixed number of paylines, the 'Megaways' feature offers a dynamic gaming experience.
This dynamic nature is a result of the random reel modifier mechanic, which sees a different number of symbols that can appear on each reel, which changes with every spin. The result? A different number of ways to win that makes the gaming experience even more unpredictable.
How Do You Win On Megaways Slots?
Megaways slots use winning ways rather than paylines, so winning combinations are formed if a certain number of matching symbols land on adjacent reels from left to right, starting from the leftmost reel.
However, it's important to note that the gameplay in Megaways slots is quite dynamic. The number of symbols on each reel can change with every spin, so one spin may have a couple hundred ways to win, but the next could have hundreds of thousands.
The majority of Megaways slots come with a variety of bonus features that enhance the gaming experience. These may include cascading reels, multipliers, bonus spins, mystery symbols and more.
What Does The Megaways Number Mean?
The 'Megaways' number on an online slot refers to the number of possible ways to win on a specific spin - i.e. with the current number of symbols on display on each reel.
Typically, the Megaways number is displayed next to the reels on each spin, informing the players about the maximum number of winning ways available. It's important to note that this number changes with every spin, reflecting the dynamic nature of these games.
What Is The Difference Between Megaways And Jackpot?
While Megaways slots offer a variable number of ways to win, jackpot slots are a different beast altogether. Jackpot slots feature fixed jackpot prizes or a progressive jackpot system, where a portion of each wager is added to a communal pot. This pot can be won by any player playing that specific game (or one of the other participating slots if there are multiple), leading to some of the biggest top prizes available in the online slots world.
In contrast, Megaways slots don't feature a progressive jackpot. Instead, the winnings are determined by the winning combinations formed on the reels. Additionally, Megaways slots often feature a plethora of bonus features, such as cascading reels and multipliers, which may include fixed jackpot prizes.
Fixed jackpots are ones that are specific to that slot game and are proportional to the bet amount, and they commonly appear in the form of Mini, Minor, Major and Grand prizes displayed somewhere on the screen outside the reels. They are typically won through bonus features, such as a Respins feature.
Which Megaways Slots Can I Play?
There is a broad range of Megaways slots available for online play. Some of the popular titles available here at Barbados Bingo include 10,001 Nights Megaways, 9 Pots of Gold Megaways, Blue Wizard Megaways, Book of Tut Megaways, Break Da Bank Again Megaways, Centurion Megaways, Chilli Heat Megaways, Fishin' Frenzy The Big Catch Megaways, Gonzo's Quest Megaways, and many many more.
Big Time Gaming may have created Megaways, but other developers use the feature on license in their own games. This means you can find Megaways slot games from a range of big names in the online slots industry.
Conclusion
The introduction of Megaways has undeniably revolutionised the world of online slots. These games have become increasingly popular among slot enthusiasts by shaking up the traditional static nature of slot games. That being said, just because there are more ways to form wins in Megaways slots, it doesn't mean you are more likely to land wins. They are still games of chance with unpredictable outcomes, and winning is never guaranteed.
Please gamble responsibly and play within your means.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to these slot games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.