Are Megaways Better than Slots?

Slot machines have undergone several advancements and are now adopted into digital screens and more complex reels like Megaways slots. Thus, Megaways can also be classified as slots but more advanced than traditional slots. 

Some of the best online slots today are Megaways, with potential for big wins and innovative features. So, your choice of slot depends on what kind of gaming experience you seek. Do you prefer the simplicity and comfort of traditional slots or the fast-paced features and variable outcomes of Megaways slots?

In this article, you will learn more about Megaways and traditional slots, including their differences, pros, and cons.

⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note that all gambling involves risk. The content in this article is intended for informational purposes only. We do not promote gambling, and all readers are advised to gamble responsibly.

What are Megaways?

Megaways is a slot machine developed by Big Time Gaming in 2016. Megaways follows a random reel modifier system, which creates a flexible gaming experience for players. This slot type is also characterised by its high volatility and huge paylines that can reach up to 117,649 winning ways and even more.

"The slot machines sit there like young courtesans, promising pleasures undreamed of, your deepest desires fulfilled, all lusts satiated." These words from Frank Scoblete emphasised the pleasure and satisfaction often derived from slots. It gets more interesting because innovations like Megaways have made modern slots an engaging gambling choice.

How does Megaways Work? 

Unlike traditional and classic slots with fixed paylines, Megaways yield multiple combinations by altering the symbols from every spin. This implies that each Megaways on mobile slots reel shows a different number of symbols, usually between 2 and 7 symbols per reel.

To win Megaways slots, you need to achieve matching symbols on adjacent reels from left to right. For example, if you get a matching symbol on reels 1,2 and 3, that's a win for you right there!

Features of Megaways 

According to The Business Research Company, the slot machines market size is expected to grow to $4.31 billion in 2029 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.3%. Research has shown that the evolution of Megaways has also contributed to the growth of slots across online casinos. Thanks to the innovative and engaging features.

Apart from the reel varieties and massive win potential, the other key Megaways features on most safe slot sites are below.

1. Cascading reels: Many Megaways games use cascading or avalanche mechanics, eliminating winning symbols and dropping in new ones. This can lead to multiple consecutive wins on a single spin. 
2. High volatility: Megaways are highlighted as volatile, which means the wins are rare, but there is a much bigger payout when players hit a winning combination.
3. Bonus features: Megaways bonus features often include free spins, multipliers, expanding wilds, and mystery symbols. Examples of games with these symbols include Extra Chilli, Bonanza Megaways, Gonzo's Quest Megaways, and Divine Fortune Megaways.

Pros of Megaways 

1. Megaways have a massive win potential.
2. Megaways' flexible gameplay makes gambling unpredictable yet exciting.
3. Megaway cascading features create the possibility of getting multiple consecutive wins from a single bet.
4. Megaways' multiple features add excitement and variety to players' gaming options.
5. Megaway slots often come with modern design, graphics, and animation, which makes them more visually appealing.

Cons of Megaways 

1. Megaways can overwhelm new players due to the ever-changing reels and complex features.
2. Megaways' high volatility makes them not the best choice for casual players or those with smaller bankrolls.
3. Some Megaways require slightly higher minimum bets compared to traditional slots.

Traditional Slots: The Classic Experience

Like many other betting games, traditional slots have been a source of entertainment for many individuals over the years. In the words of Jeanette Winterson, "Gambling is not a vice; it is an expression of our humanness. We gamble. Some do it at the gaming table, some do not. You play, you win, you play, you lose. You play."

Traditional slots, often known as classic slots, are the original form of slot machines. Unlike Megaways, traditional slots have fixed odds, so the payout rates are usually set even before the games begin. Traditional slots have existed as far back as the 1800s, while the first machine, the Liberty Bell, was invented by Charles Fey.

How do traditional slots work?

Foremost, traditional slots come with a fixed number of reels and paylines, typically 3 to 5 reels. The games are straightforward, with simple elements such as bars, symbols, bells, and lucky seven. 

Players win in traditional slots by matching 2 or 3+ symbols across a payline from left to right. Even though some classic slots have wilds and bonus features, they are usually not as huge as the features present in Megaways. Also, the volatility rate of traditional slots is low, as players will enjoy frequent wins but with a low payout.

Pros of traditional slots 

1. Traditional slots are simple and easy to learn, so they are ideal for beginners just starting with gambling.
2. Traditional slots allow for smaller bets, making them accessible for players on a low budget.
3. Traditional slots are popular among players who love old-school themes due to their common retro graphics and classic designs.
4. Traditional slots are highly predictable, which is an ideal choice for players who can't handle the randomness of Megaways games.

Cons of traditional slots 

1. Traditional slots have few bonus rounds, making them less engaging over time.
2. Traditional slots have fewer paylines and simpler structures, so the payouts are usually small.

Key Differences: Megaways vs. Traditional Slots 

Understanding the differences between Megaways and traditional slots is essential to deciding the best option for you, including knowing the house edges. According to a study by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, regular slot players barely differentiate between the house edges of different games. According to Lucas, one of the contributors, some casinos are taking advantage of these players' ignorance. 

Typically, Megaways slots offer slightly better return-to-player (RTP), with a lower house edge, than traditional slots. However, it's pretty tricky because, due to Megaway's high volatility, players might lose more quickly during a cold streak before hitting a big win.

The table below shows the other significant differences between Megaways and traditional slots.

Features	Megaways Slots	Traditional Slots
Reel	6 reels or more, with changing symbol count per spin	Usually 3 or 5 reels with fixed symbols
Paylines/winning ways	Up to 117,649 winning ways	Fixed Paylines, could be 10, 20, or 25
Volatility	High volatility (bigger, but less frequent wins)	Low to medium volatility (smaller, but frequent wins)
Bonus features	Often include free spins, multipliers, cascading reels	Usually wilds and basic bonuses
Target players	Advanced players seeking a thrilling experience	Beginners who prefer the feel of classic games

Players can explore a broad selection of online slots including classic and modern releases. Those interested in progressive-style experiences may also browse a range of jackpot slots, while players who prefer expanded reel systems can look into Megaways slot collection. 

All formats are available within the licensed and regulated online casino platform.

Conclusion

To answer your question, are Megaways better than slots? An experienced player will tell you Megaways are better, while a beginner will most likely go for the traditional versions. Megaways are mobile-friendly slots designed to fit into different screens perfectly. 

However, both Megaways and traditional slots offer distinct experiences and cater to other types of players, as the latter is more relaxing and has simple elements. Your choice should be based on your gambling needs and the gambling experience you seek.

For more information or to explore different game categories, you can visit Prime Casino.