Bonanza Megaways is the slot that changed the industry. Big Time Gaming released it in 2016 as the first game with the Megaways mechanic, in which the number of symbols on each reel changes with every spin. The result is up to 117,649 ways to win, a concept that has since been licensed to dozens of other developers. Add cascading wins, which Big Time Gaming calls Reactions, and a free spins round with a multiplier that has no upper limit, and you have one of the most influential slots ever made. In this Bonanza Megaways slot review we explain how it all works.
Bonanza Megaways at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Provider | Big Time Gaming |
| Release | 2016 |
| Reels | 6 reels with 2 to 7 symbols each, plus an extra horizontal reel |
| Ways to win | Up to 117,649 |
| RTP | 96% |
| Volatility | Medium to high |
| Maximum win | 26,000x your stake |
| Stake in the UK | From £0.20 up to the £5 per spin limit (£2 for players aged 18 to 24) |
Theme and Design
The game is set in a gold mine, with wooden beams, mining carts and sparkling gemstones. The high-value symbols are coloured gems, and the lower-value symbols are card ranks carved into stone. Above the main reels runs a horizontal Extra Reel filled with mining carts. The design is simple but effective, and the explosive animations of the Reactions keep every spin lively.
How Megaways Works
On every spin, each of the six reels shows a random number of symbols, from two to seven. The number of ways to win is the number of symbols on each reel multiplied together. With seven symbols on every reel, counting the Extra Reel symbol on reels 2 to 5, the maximum is 117,649 ways. Wins are formed by matching symbols on adjacent reels from the left, in any position. The number of ways is shown above the reels before each spin settles.
The Extra Reel
The Extra Reel sits above reels 2 to 5 and adds one more symbol to each of those reels. It moves from right to left. A Dynamite Wild can only appear on the Extra Reel and substitutes for paying symbols. Gold Scatter letters can also land there, which helps you trigger the free spins.
Reactions
After every win, the winning symbols explode and new symbols fall into their place. If the new symbols create another win, the Reaction continues. A single spin can produce a long chain of wins at no extra cost. Reactions are especially important in the free spins, where every one of them increases the multiplier.
Free Spins with an Unlimited Multiplier
The free spins are triggered by landing the four Scatter letters G, O, L and D at the same time. This awards 12 free spins, and extra Scatters add 5 more spins each. During the free spins, the win multiplier starts at 1x and increases by one with every Reaction. There is no cap, so a round with many Reactions can build a very high multiplier. Gold bullion Scatters on the Extra Reel can add more free spins during the round. This feature is where Bonanza Megaways reaches its maximum win of 26,000x your stake.
RTP, Volatility and Maximum Win
Bonanza Megaways has an RTP of 96%. The volatility is medium to high: the base game can be quiet, but the Reactions and the unlimited multiplier in free spins can produce very large wins. The maximum win is 26,000x your stake, following an update by Big Time Gaming that raised the cap from the original 10,000x.
The Megaways Legacy
After the success of Bonanza, Big Time Gaming licensed the Megaways mechanic to other developers. Today there are hundreds of Megaways slots, including versions of popular games such as Gonzo’s Quest Megaways, Rainbow Riches Megaways and Fishin’ Frenzy Megaways. Bonanza remains the original and, for many players, the best.
Playing Bonanza Megaways in the UK
At UK-licensed casinos, slots follow the rules of the UK Gambling Commission. Autoplay and turbo spins are not allowed, spins last at least 2.5 seconds, and the maximum stake is £5 per spin for players aged 25 and over, or £2 per spin for players aged 18 to 24. Bonus buy options that exist in some other markets are generally not offered at UK casinos.
Bonanza Megaways on Mobile
The game runs on iPhone, Android phones and tablets. The changing reel heights are easy to follow on a phone screen. See our guide to mobile slots in the UK.
Who Is Bonanza Megaways For?
Bonanza Megaways suits players who enjoy dynamic games where every spin looks different. The free spins with an unlimited multiplier offer real excitement, and the potential maximum win is very high. Because the volatility is medium to high, it is not the best choice for players who want steady small wins. If you prefer a calmer game, try a low volatility classic like Starburst.
Why the Number of Ways Matters
In a Megaways slot, the number of ways changes every spin, and it has a big effect on your chances of a win. A spin with only a few hundred ways will often pay little, while a spin with tens of thousands of ways can produce many combinations at once. During Reactions, the number of ways can also change as new symbols fall into place. This constant variation is what makes Megaways games feel so dynamic, and it is also part of the reason for their higher volatility compared with fixed-payline slots.
Tips for Playing Bonanza Megaways
- Be patient: the free spins require all four GOLD letters, so they can take time to trigger.
- Choose a modest stake: give yourself enough spins to reach the bonus.
- Watch the Extra Reel: it can deliver Dynamite Wilds and Scatter letters.
- Set limits: decide how much you want to spend before you start.
Where to Play Bonanza Megaways
Bonanza Megaways is available at many UK casinos with Big Time Gaming games. Browse more titles on our online slots page, compare free spins offers, and always choose a licensed casino. Read our guide to gambling with real money for tips on playing safely.
Play responsibly. Set limits, take breaks and never play with money you cannot afford to lose. For support, visit BeGambleAware.org. 18+ only.
Features
Bonanza Megaways FAQ
Who invented Megaways?
Big Time Gaming invented the Megaways mechanic and launched it with Bonanza in 2016.
How do you trigger free spins in Bonanza Megaways?
Land the four Scatter letters G, O, L and D at the same time to win 12 free spins.
What is the maximum win on Bonanza Megaways?
The maximum win is 26,000x your stake.
What is the RTP of Bonanza Megaways?
The RTP of Bonanza Megaways is 96%.
How many ways to win does Bonanza have?
Up to 117,649 ways, depending on how many symbols land on each reel.
