Interest in Megaways slots compared to classics

Interest in Megaways slots compared to classics

1) Introduction

The Australian gambling market has traditionally been built around classic pokies - three- and five-reel machines with the usual symbols of fruits, sevens and card signs. However, with the growth of online casinos, innovative mechanics are increasingly coming to the fore, and Megaways slots occupy a special place here. Their format, proposed by Big Time Gaming, changed perceptions of the game's dynamics, giving players thousands of combinations and an ever-changing playing field. In 2025, comparing interest in Megaways and classics becomes a key indicator of the evolution of Australian user preferences.

2) Classic slot appeal

Classic machines maintain a stable audience due to several factors:
  • Simplicity: Familiar mechanics without complicated rules.
  • Nostalgia: many players are used to pokies in bars and clubs where classic machines stood.
  • Reduced volatility: frequent, albeit small, wins.
  • Local releases: Australian studios still produce fruit, classic "777" and minimalist machines.
  • Audience: mainly 40 + age players, as well as beginners who prefer direct and understandable mechanics.

3) How Megaways differ from classics

The number of ways to win: from hundreds to 117,649 and above.
Changeable structure: the number of symbols on the reels is constantly changing.
High volatility: Wins are rarer but potentially significantly higher.
Dynamics: Each spin is unique, making the game less predictable.
Chips: Cascades, multiples, bonus games with increasing chances.

4) Australian player interest comparison

Classics

Leads among older players.
Used as "everyday entertainment" with small stakes.
Attracts an audience of offline establishments.
In the online environment, it is often chosen by beginners.

Megaways

Attract advanced users and players 25-40 years old.
Popular in Telegram casinos and mobile applications.
High engagement due to dynamics and "feelings of unpredictability."
Selected by players focused on big wins and risk.

5) Megaways popularity growth factors

1. Marketing providers: Pragmatic Play, NetEnt and Red Tiger are actively promoting Megaways in AU.
2. Exclusive releases: A number of casinos are releasing Megaways slots for Australian audiences only.
3. Streamer broadcasts: Megaways appear more often in reviews and streams, as they are more spectacular.
4. "Slots with mechanics" trend: Players move from standard reels to interactive formats.

6) Final conclusions

The classic remains the foundation: it keeps a stable audience, especially in the offline segment and among older players.
Megaways are growing strongly, with their momentum and scalability making them the No. 1 choice among a young online casino audience.
In 2025, interest in Megaways in Australia is already comparable to the popularity of the classics, and in the online environment it is gradually overtaking it.
The trend for the coming years is a move towards hybrid slots, where elements of the classics will be combined with innovative Megaways mechanics.