Start with stake definition
Record total bet, coin or denomination and whether displayed symbol awards are multipliers of that unit. Changing stake should scale the ledger exactly as the rules describe.
The paytable connects symbol values, minimum match lengths and the ways calculation. Reading those items together is more reliable than judging a Megaways game from the largest ways figure shown above the reels.
Count symbols per reel
Use the current spin’s visible symbol positions to calculate the product of reel heights for the maximum potential ways. This does not mean every symbol combination wins.
Apply adjacent-reel matching
Confirm the minimum number of consecutive reels from the left and count matching symbols on each eligible reel. Multiply occurrences according to the game’s ways rule.
Handle special symbols
Read wild substitution, scatter payment, mystery symbols and exclusions separately. Scatters may pay anywhere and therefore use a different calculation from adjacent ways.
Record mathematical version
Save declared RTP, volatility wording, maximum win and feature options from the same panel. Do not copy values from another operator or review without matching the exact build.
117,649 is a maximum configuration, not every spin
Variable reel heights can produce fewer ways on most displayed grids, and only matching symbol combinations create a payout under the paytable.
Paytable questions
How are Megaways counted?
Multiply the displayed symbol positions across the relevant reels for that spin’s potential ways.
Do wins need a payline?
Megaways commonly uses adjacent-reel ways, but the exact rule panel governs the title.
Where can I find RTP?
Open the in-game help or information panel for the actual version being played.