Definition
Megaways is a slot game mechanic, licensed from its originator to many studios, in which the number of symbols on each reel changes randomly on every spin, producing a variable number of ways to win — often advertised as "up to 117,649 ways". Each reel can show a different count of symbols (commonly two to seven), and wins are formed by matching symbols on consecutive reels from the left regardless of row position, rather than on fixed paylines.
Most Megaways titles also use cascading or tumbling wins, where winning symbols are removed and replaced within the same spin.
The mechanic is a maths and marketing template rather than a single game. Studios build their own themed titles on the licensed engine, tuning volatility, RTP and feature design within it.
The "117,649 ways" headline is the maximum when every reel shows seven symbols (seven to the sixth power); the effective ways on a typical spin are far fewer.
In context
For affiliates, Megaways is worth understanding because it is a major content category players search for by name, and because its design has specific responsible-gambling and honesty implications. Megaways games are typically high volatility: long losing stretches punctuated by rare large wins, with the cascading feature and big "ways" number creating frequent small hits and near-misses that make sessions feel eventful.
Review content should describe this volatility plainly, state the actual RTP (which varies by operator's licensed configuration, as with any slot), and avoid implying the huge "ways" figure translates into a better chance of winning — it does not change the RTP.
Megaways titles also commonly offer a bonus-buy option where allowed, and are frequent subjects of the streamer and "big win" content that regulators scrutinise for presenting gambling as a route to money. An affiliate covering Megaways games responsibly focuses on how the mechanic works, honest volatility and RTP information, and feature explanations, rather than on highlight-reel wins.
It should also note that bonus-buy and certain high-volatility configurations are restricted or banned in some markets, so availability differs by jurisdiction.
Worked example
An affiliate's guide to a popular Megaways slot explains the changing-reel mechanic and the 117,649-ways maximum, states the RTP variant each reviewed casino runs, labels the game high volatility with an example of typical losing-streak length, and notes that the bonus-buy feature is unavailable in two of the markets it covers.
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
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