What are Megaways Slots? How to Win & Best Megaways Games in 2025

If you're a fan of online slots, you've probably heard about Megaways slots—the game-changing mechanic that completely changed the way players can win through slot games. Megaways games can offer literally hundreds and thousands of different ways to win, with dynamic reel structures, and high volatility action. But how exactly do Megaways slots work, and why are they so popular?

In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about Megaways slots, from how they work to the best strategies and top Megaways slot games to try. After all, who doesn't want more ways to win?

What are Megaways Slots?

Megaways slots are a unique type of slot machine that use a dynamic reel modifer system, meaning the number of symbols on each reel changes with every spin. Unlike traditional slots with fixed paylines, Megaways slots offer thousands of ways to win on every spin.

The Megaways mechanic was created by Big Time Gaming (BTG), and first introduced with Bonanza Megaways, released in 2016. Due to the immense success, BTG licensed their Megaways technology to other leading game providers like NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, and more, leading to a massive expansion of Megaways titles across various providers, themes, and styles.

How do Megaways Slots Work?

Simply saying "Megaways slot games are packed with thousands of paylines is well and good, but how do they actually work? Let's break it down:

1. Dynamic Reels: Each reel displays a different number of symbols on every spin, typically ranging from 2 to 7. This variability means the number of possible winning combinations changes with every single spin.
2. Variable Paylines: With the Megaways engine, there are no fixed paylines. The varying number of symbols appearing and paylines adds an element of unpredictability to the online slot.
3. Cascading Reels: Most Megaways slots feature cascading reels, where any winning symbols are removed to make way from new symbols to drop in. This triggers consecutive wins for a single spin, boosting the payout potential.
4. Bonus Features: Megaways slots tend to include special features such as a free spins round, multipliers, and other bonus games.
5. Volatility & RTP: Megaways games are typically high volatility, meaning they offer larger but less frequent payouts. The Return to Player (RTP) rate varies from game to game, but usually sits between 95 and 97%.

Top 12 Most Popular Megaways Slot Games

There are probably hundreds of online Megaways slots out there, but some have stood out as fan favorites.

Here are some of the best Megaways slots around, featuring different themes, bonus rounds, developers, and paylines. And the best part is, they are all available on Rivalry's online casino.

1. Bonanza Megaways

• Provider: Big Time Gaming
• Paylines: Up to 117,649
• Bonus Features: Free spins, unlimited multipliers, cascading reels

Bonanza Megaways is a gold-mining-themed adventure where players must find their own fortune. Bonanza was the first-ever Megaways slot machine to be released, acting as the genres pioneer and paving the way for hundreds of other Megaways slot titles to follow. The game has a decent RTP of 96% and is highly volatile, making it perfect for players who enjoy big potential payouts but can handle dry spells.

2. Extra Chilli Megaways

• Provider: Big Time Gaming
• Paylines: Up to 117,649
• Bonus Features: Free spins, increasing multipliers

Adding some extra heat to the online slots scene comes Extra Chilli Megaways, another hard-hitting Megaways slot by Big Time Gaming. This slot game is set in a bustling Mexican market, serving up some serious volatility. With an RTP of 96.19% and high variance, Extra Chilli Megaways is a fan-favorite and features an interesting gamble mechanic, where players can risk their hard-won free spins for even more rewards.

3. Twin Spin Megaways

• Provider: NetEnt
• Paylines: Up to 117,649
• Bonus Features: Twin reels, wild multipliers, free spins

Offering a modern twist on the classic Twin Spin, Twin Spin Megaways ups the ante, blending retro fruit machines with the cutting-edge Megaways engine. The RTP is 96.04% with a medium-to-high volatility, making it more balanced compared to other higher-volatility Megaways slots.

4. Big Bass Bonanza Megaways

• Provider: Pragmatic Play
• Paylines: Up to 46,656
• Bonus Features: Fisherman wilds, free spins, progressive multipliers

Big Bass Bonanza Megaways lets players cast their line for huge prizes while jazzing up the standard "Big Bass" series with huge win potential. The RTP is 96.70%, and it has high volatility, offering frequent free spins rounds where multipliers grow as the game progresses.

The Fisherman wild collects money values for extra wins; will you reel in a fortune?

5. The Dog House Megaways

• Provider: Pragmatic Play
• Paylines: Up to 117,649
• Bonus Features: Sticky wilds, free spins

Who let the dogs out? The Dog House Megaways is set in a playful neighborhood with adorable cartoon pups, offering a lighthearted yet high-stakes slot game. With an RTP of 96.55% and high volatility, it offers two different free spins features—one with sticky wild multipliers and one with raining wilds, catering to different playstyles.

6. Great Rhino Megaways

• Provider: Pragmatic Play
• Paylines: Up to 200,704
• Bonus Features: Free spins, cascading reels, multipliers

Set in the great African savannah, Great Rhino Megaways takes players on a legendary safari full of wild animal action with a powerful jackpot feel. The RTP is 96.58% and it's highly volatile, making it ideal for risk-takers. This slot game offers various free spins options, giving players the freedom to choose between different volatility levels and embrace their wild side.

7. Gonzo's Quest Megaways

• Provider: Red Tiger Gaming (licensed by NetEnt)
• Paylines: Up to 117,649
• Bonus Features: Avalanche multipliers, free spins, progressive multipliers

Gonzo's Quest Megaways reboots the classic NetEnt slot with Megaways mechanics, taking players deep into jungles unknown in search of lost treasure and riches. This iconic Megaways game has an RTP of 96% and high volatility, with the unique Avalanche feature allowing for chain-reaction wins and increasing multipliers.

8. Wild West Gold Megaways

• Provider: Pragmatic Play
• Paylines: Up to 117,649
• Bonus Features: Sticky wild multipliers, free spins, retriggers

Saddle up for a ride in Wild West Gold Megaways! This cowboy-themed slot brings sheriff badges, cowboy bandits, and all high-stakes gameplay you'd expect from the Wild West.

With an overall RTP of 96.44%, players can experience exciting free spins bonus rounds with sticky wild multipliers to boost their bounty potential.

9. White Rabbit Megaways

• Provider: Big Time Gaming
• Paylines: Up to 248,832
• Bonus Features: Expanding reels, free spins, feature buy

Inspired by Lewis Caroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, White Rabbit Megaways utilizes the Megaways system to create over 200,000 different ways to win. It also has an impressive RTP of 97.27%, making it one of the highest-paying Megaways slots on this list. Its expanding reels feature also lends itself to massive wins.

10. Divine Fortune Megaways

• Provider: NetEnt
• Paylines: Up to 117,649
• Bonus Features: Free spins, bonus symbols, falling wild respins

Divine Fortune Megaways is a Greek mythology-themed slot that builds upon the success of the original Divine Fortune but with an upgraded Megaways twist. Featuring an RTP of 96.09% and medium-to-high volatility, the game provides balanced gameplay with frequent wins and the potential for big payouts

11. Madame Destiny Megaways

• Provider: Pragmatic Play
• Paylines: Up to 200,704
• Bonus Features: Free spins, retriggers, wild multipliers

Step into the mystical world of fortune telling and tarot cards with Madame Destiny Megaways. This slot has an RTP of 96.56% and high volatility, making it a high-risk, high-reward game. The standout feature is the free spins round, where a wheel determines the number of free spins and the multiplier applied to all wins.

12. Starz Megaways

• Provider: Pragmatic Play
• Paylines: Up to 117,649
• Bonus Features: Expanding wilds, free spins

A new Megaslots slot addition to Rivalry is Starz Megaways. This intergalatic-themed slot features vibrant visuals and bonus spins, taking players on a cosmic adventure through deep space. The RTP is 96.48%, and it has high volatility, with expanding and sticky wilds, letting players score out-of-this world prizes.

Best Strategies for Playing Megaways Slots

Megaways slots tend to be high volatility, which means a strategic approach can maximize your chances of winning and extend your playtime. Here are some key tips:

Manage Your Bankroll

It's the golden rule of betting to always manage your bankroll carefully, but it's even more important with Megaways games, since they have large swings. Avoid going all in on a single session, and consider playing with smaller bets to extend your playtime and increase your odds of hitting bonus rounds.

Choose High RTP Games

Not all Megaways slots offer the same payout potential. Look for games with an RTP of 96% or higher to ensure you get better long-term returns. While RTP doesn't guarantee individual results, it gives an indication of how much a game pays out over time.

Check the Paytable

Each Megaways game has different symbol values and features. Understanding the paytable can help you choose the best games for your playstyle.

Take Advantage of Free Spins & Promotions

Online casinos like Rivalry offer free spins and casino bonuses, which you can use to play Megaways slots. These are essentially free cash you can use to increase your playtime and increase your chances without risking your own bankroll.

Know When To Walk Away

Since Megaways slots can be unpredictable, it's important to recognize when to step away from the game. Setting a win/loss limit can help you avoid chasing losses, make more strategic gambling decisions, and play responsibly.

Play Megaways Games on Rivalry Today!

If you're ready to experience the excitement of Megaways slots, you can find the best selection right here on Rivalry! We've got the classics like Extra Chilli and Bonanza, as well as modern, feature-packed gems like Big Bass Bonanza Megaways, so there's something to suit every kind of player!

Rivalry offers a top-tier gaming experience with fair RTPs, exciting promotions, and lightning-fast deposits and withdrawals (with cash or crypto)!

Why Play Megaways Slots at Rivalry?

✅ Huge Selection – Play a variety of Megaways titles from top providers, as well as over 1,000 other casino gems like table games, live game shows, online scratchcards, and more.

✅ Exclusive Bonuses – Take advantage of free spins, cashback offers, deposit bonuses, the VIP Program, and more! Our welcome bonus matches your first deposit 100% (up to $100).

✅ Farm $NUTZ – Every bet (win or lose) earns $NUTZ, Rivalry's native crypto token, which will have real utility and value when they've officially launched.

✅ Secure & Fair Gaming – Licensed by the Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission, regulated, and built for safe play.

✅ Seamless Experience – Enjoy Megaways slots on desktop and all mobile devices with smooth gameplay and zero lag.

✅ 24/7 Customer Support – Need help with anything? Our friendly player support team has got your back!

Ready to spin and win? Sign up at Rivalry, claim your welcome bonus, and dive into the high-action world of Megaways slots!

Final Thoughts

You can see now how Megaways slots have transformed the online casino world with their dynamic reels, cascading wins, and huge win potential.

No matter if you're a casual player or high roller, these innovative games offering an exciting, high-energy experience unlike any other, and you can play them all right now on Rivalry's licensed and regulated online casino.

Megaways Slot FAQs

Where can I play Megaways slots?

If you're looking for somewhere to play Megaways slots, look no further! Rivalry is a licensed and secure online casino with an impressive range of Megaways slots. These all come from popular providers like Big Time Gaming, NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, and more, each with exciting themes, maximum wins, and bonus rounds.

Can I play Megaways slots for free?

While some online casinos offer demo Megaways slots, Rivalry does not have any free Megaways slots. We currently only have real-money plays on all online slots and casino games.

Are Megaways slots good?

Yes, Megaways slots are a firm fave among players due to their dynamic reels, massive win potential, and exciting features like bonus spins, cascading reels, and progressive multipliers.

How to play Megaways slots?

Playing a Megaways slot game is no different to a traditional slot. All you need to do is:

1. Choose a Game – Pick from a wide selection of Megaways slots.
2. Set Your Bet – Adjust your stake according to your available bankroll.
3. Spin the Reels – Each spin has a different number of ways to win.
4. Match Symbols to Win – Check the paytable to see how many matching symbols you need for payout.
5. Look for Special Features – Many Megaways slots offer free spins, multipliers, cascading reels, and more.
6. Play Responsibly – Manage your bankroll and know when to stop playing.

What are the most popular Megaways games?

Some of the most popular Megaways slots include: Bonanza Megaways, Buffalo King Megaways, Big Bass Bonanza Megaways, Big Bass Bonanza Hold and Spinner Megaways, 5 Lions Megaways, and Twin Spin Megaways.