Megaways Number in Slots Explained: What Is Megaways?
If you’ve ever noticed the large changing number displayed at the top of a Megaways slot and wondered what it represents, you’re not alone.
That number – the Megaways number – tells you how many potential symbol combinations could form on that particular spin. Understanding how this works can help you see what makes these games different from traditional slots with fixed paylines.
This guide explains how Megaways games calculate that number, why it changes every spin, and how it shapes the overall game structure. By the end, you’ll know what this number really means, how the feature works, and why it’s become a defining part of many modern online slots in the UK.
What Does Megaways Mean in Slots?
Megaways is a slot game mechanic developed by Big Time Gaming in 2016. It changes how symbols line up and how winning combinations can be created on every spin. Instead of using fixed paylines — where wins form along preset lines — Megaways slots use a system known as “dynamic reels.”
Each reel can show a different number of symbols on every spin. This number usually ranges between two and seven, but the range varies depending on the game. The total number of potential combinations for that spin is calculated by multiplying the number of visible symbols on each reel together.
For example, if a slot has six reels and each reel displays seven symbols, that spin offers 7⁶ = 117,649 possible combinations. If each reel shows only three symbols, there would be 3⁶ = 729 ways to win. This figure is what appears as the Megaways number on the game screen.
This design means the number of potential winning combinations changes every time you spin. Each game’s paytable — a built-in information screen that lists symbol values, rules, and reel setup — explains how its version of Megaways works. It can be a useful place to check before you start playing.
Why Does the Megaways Number Change on Each Spin?
In Megaways slots, the reels aren’t locked to a fixed structure. When you press spin, a Random Number Generator (RNG) — a type of software tested and certified under UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) rules — decides how many symbols appear on each reel and what they are.
The RNG is what makes the outcome unpredictable and fair. Every spin is independent from the last, meaning previous results have no effect on future ones. The variation in reel height makes the layout look different every time, and the displayed Megaways number simply reflects how many possible symbol combinations exist at that moment.
Here’s a simplified example using six reels:
- If the first reel shows five symbols, the second has four, and the rest each show six, you would calculate 5 × 4 × 6 × 6 × 6 × 6 = 25,920 ways to win.
This fluctuating layout keeps each spin unique. However, the size of the Megaways number does not indicate how valuable a spin might be — it only shows how many combinations could appear. Potential wins, losses, and symbol placements are all random.
How Many Winning Ways Can Megaways Slots Offer?
The maximum number of Megaways available depends on the game’s setup. Many use six reels with up to seven symbols on each, leading to a potential 117,649 ways to win. Others use different formats — for example:
- Five reels with up to five symbols each: 5⁵ = 3,125 ways.
- Seven reels with up to seven symbols each: 7⁷ = 823,543 ways.
Some slot games may add extra reels or modifiers that can increase these totals even further, though these designs are less common. The important thing to remember is that this number changes every spin based on how many symbols appear on each reel.
Because every slot developer sets up its reels differently, you may want to check the game’s information section for its specific structure and maximum Megaways.
Popular Features Found in Megaways Games
Megaways games often offer bonus mechanics that affect how symbols can behave. These features differ between titles, but some common examples include:
- Cascading Reels: Winning symbols disappear, and new symbols fall into place, giving another chance to form new combinations on the same spin.
- Free Spins Rounds: Certain symbols trigger a separate round of free spins, often with additional features such as increasing multipliers.
- Expanding Wilds: Wild symbols can stretch across multiple positions on a reel, replacing other symbols and creating new combinations.
- Mystery Symbols: Identical hidden symbols that all reveal the same outcome once the reels stop.
- Reel Modifiers: Random changes to the reel structure, such as adding extra symbols or shuffling their positions.
Because each Megaways slot has its own rules, checking the paytable and information pages before playing can help you better understand how that game works.
Should You Pay Attention to the Megaways Number?
Whether you focus on the Megaways number or not is entirely personal. Some players enjoy watching it change because it shows how open or closed the grid is on that spin. Others may prefer to focus purely on the symbols themselves.
A higher Megaways number doesn’t mean a higher chance of winning — it only means there are more possible combinations that could occur. Every spin remains random, and outcomes are based on probability, not prediction.
There is no strategy or betting pattern that can guarantee success in Megaways or any other slot. These games are designed to be random, and results are produced by certified RNG software to meet fairness standards set by the UKGC.
Play Megaways Slots Online
Dream Jackpot is a licensed online casino with a wide selection of Megaways slots. You can browse popular titles that use the Megaways system, compare features, and pick the style that suits you.
If you already have an account, log in to see what is available. New to Dream Jackpot? You can join online and explore the game library at your own pace.
We aim to provide a secure place to play and clear information about every title. Play for entertainment, set sensible limits, and only spend what you can afford.
*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.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.