The first machines recognisable as slot games were created during the final years of the 19th century. Over the century that followed, these developed into some of the most popular games played all over the world.
In the UK, ‘fruit machines’ became ubiquitous in pubs and clubs up and down the country. In Australia and New Zealand, under the name of ‘pokies’, they found a similar path to success.
From the casinos of Las Vegas to the amusement arcades of Blackpool, slots achieved global domination during the 20th century. Then, just when it seemed their time might be fading, the internet gave rise to the phenomenon of online gaming.
Each year of the 21st century, the world’s appetite for online slots increased. By 2016, the total market for online poker, casino, sports books, lotteries, and slots was worth almost $30 billion.
By this time, the latest revolution in online slots was already in progress, but few people knew it. Founded in Australia by Nik Robinson in 2011, Big Time Gaming quietly launched the very first Megaways slot in 2015.
Dragon Born, as it was titled, made little impact on the gaming world, but its successor was far less modest. In 2016, Big Time Gaming released the mining-themed Bonanza and the landscape of online slots was changed forever.
Megaways slots are different to conventional slot games due to a unique mechanic which creates an element of spectacular unpredictability. During real-time gameplay, a random number generator (RNG) alters the amount of reels, symbols, and paylines for each spin.
The result is some spins have a regular number of ways to win, while others offer up to 117,649. These changes are completely random, keeping players on their toes at all times and generating a thrilling gaming experience.
While the first Megaways slots were exclusive to Big Time Gaming, their popularity soon led major platforms to come calling. By 2021, more than 150 variations of Megaways slots were available to play across a wide range of gaming providers.
In 2024, almost every recognised name in the online casino world has a dedicated Megaways section. Over 200 games can be enjoyed by millions, if not billions, of players in every corner of the world.
So, what is it like to play a Megaways slot in contrast to a conventional game?
As we’ve said, the key difference in Megaways slots is their unpredictability. With the variables and win possibilities changing every spin, it feels like playing a new game every time.
This eliminates the repetition which can sometimes become tiring when playing the same game for long periods. With no need to go searching for variety, players can keep their sessions straightforward and stress-free.
RTP (Return to Player) is the industry term for the percentage of money staked that is paid out as wins. On average, most online slots deliver an RTP somewhere between 92% and 97%.
When it comes to Megaways, it is unusual to find a slot game with an RTP below 96%. In simple terms, this means you have a better chance of winning when you play Megaways slots.
- Huge payouts are possible
With so many potential ways to win when you play Megaways slots, the chances of small payouts are increased. Thanks to the long odds created through additional reels and symbols, the size of the maximum payout is also higher.
Typically, the top coin prize for a Megaways slot can be as high as 50,000 times a player’s stake. Some offer maximum wins of more than 100,000 times the spin-stake, even with deposits as low as 10p.
- The games are constantly evolving
Just because Megaways slots are a global success doesn’t mean their makers are ready to relax. The core mechanic has now been licensed to several creators meaning new variations are released almost every month.
In addition to this, high-profile collaborations allow new Megaways slots with instantly recognisable themes to be created every year. The Goonies, Wheel of Fortune, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire and others have all recently featured in Megaways games.
- Bonus features don’t end with the RNG mechanism
If randomised core elements aren’t enough extra excitement for you, Megaways slots have plenty more up their sleeve. Free spins, mystery symbols and multipliers that become unlimited or wild can all be found in Megaways games.
These exciting additions, alongside the almost endless potential of the Megaways core mechanic, create an unrivalled gaming experience. It’s easy to see why so many players are finding Megaways games, and then choosing to stay with them.
Over the last eight years, Megaways has grown from a little-known innovation to one of the world’s most popular games. The only question left to ask is: If you haven't tried Megaways slots yet, isn’t it about time you did?