Joker Megaways Slot Review
Games Inc may be a UK-based developer founded in 2012, but when they partnered with Relax Gaming to access the Megaways licence, they created something genuinely novel: a 3-reel take on the Megaways format. Joker Megaways arrived in 2020 and immediately established itself as a standout release by blending retro fruit machine aesthetics with modern mechanics. The game portrays itself well as a classic offering, presenting vibrant, sleek graphics that feel minimalistic yet engaging. For those seeking familiar nostalgic imagery combined with contemporary Megaways innovation, Joker Megaways delivers on both fronts.
Base Game & Features
Joker Megaways operates across a 3×(2-8) dynamic reel grid that delivers between 8 and 512 ways to win depending on symbol positioning. The reel structure is the key to understanding this slot’s appeal: instead of the traditional 5-reel Megaways design, Games Inc engineered a compact 3-reel system that still captures the mechanic’s volatility whilst maintaining the classic fruit machine feel. Each reel holds between 2 and 8 symbols, changing the available paylines on every single spin.
The symbol set is quintessentially retro: cherries, lemons, plums, grapes, watermelon, bells, and stars make up the regular symbols, whilst the Joker acts as both scatter and wild. During base gameplay, the Joker’s wild functionality means it substitutes for regular symbols to complete winning combinations. What sets this game apart is its high volatility nature, meaning base game wins come less frequently but with more substantial payouts when they do land. Players familiar with high-variance slots will recognise the rhythm immediately—stretches of quieter spins punctuated by significant wins.
Special Symbols & Mechanics
The Joker symbol operates as the linchpin of the entire game design. Beyond its scatter function that triggers the bonus round, it performs as a universal wild during both base game and free spins. The 3-reel Megaways implementation is genuinely unique and provides an interesting twist on traditional fruit machine gameplay. The dynamic row system—varying between 2 and 8 symbols per reel—creates genuine unpredictability. One spin might present 8 ways to win, the next 512. This mechanic adds meaningful volatility beyond just the pay table, as winning combinations shift with each spin’s reel configuration.
Bonus Features & Free Spins
Joker Megaways’ bonus round is where the game truly shines. Landing three Joker symbols on reels 1, 2, and 3 triggers the Joker Free Spins feature, awarding 10 initial spins. During the bonus round, Jokers remain wild and—critically—each Joker symbol landed increments a progressive multiplier by +1, starting from 1x. This mechanic transforms the free spins from a simple free play opportunity into a genuine excitement generator. Retriggering is possible: landing three additional Jokers during the bonus grants 10 more spins, further amplifying the multiplier potential. For high-volatility enthusiasts, this is precisely where wins build.
Beyond free spins, the game includes a Gamble Feature accessible after any winning spin. The 50/50 gamble—choosing between Red Heart or Blue Spade—offers the chance to double or lose your win. Players can repeat this up to 8 times or until reaching a 500x current bet limit, adding an optional risk-reward layer for those seeking additional engagement. The mechanics here are straightforward but provide genuine strategic choice.
Bonus Buy & Stakes
A Bonus Buy feature costs 100x your stake and guarantees three Joker symbols on the next spin, immediately triggering the free spins bonus. This feature is particularly valuable for players seeking direct access to the game’s most exciting element without extended base game play. However, it’s worth noting that in UK jurisdictions, regulatory restrictions prevent access to this feature, so UK-focused players will need to rely on natural triggering through base game play. For international markets where it’s available, the Bonus Buy provides meaningful value for those comfortable with the cost.
Our Honest Verdict
Joker Megaways represents a genuinely solid high-volatility offering that successfully marries retro aesthetics with modern mechanics. Games Inc smashed expectations by delivering high build quality with smooth animations—the combination of 3-reel classic mechanics with Megaways is something no other studio had executed before. The base game is quite uneventful, which is precisely what high-volatility design dictates. Wins occur less frequently, but when the bonus round hits, the progressive multiplier system creates genuine excitement. The game holds some pretty decent potential with a maximum win of 10,000x stake, though reaching that ceiling requires hitting the bonus with substantial multiplier buildup—possible but not common.
The 96.56% RTP is on the higher side of average, paired appropriately with the high volatility to deliver extended sessions with explosive potential rather than consistent smaller wins. The extensive betting range (€0.10 to €100) is unusual for a Megaways slot and makes the game accessible to both casual players and high-stakes players, a genuine strength. This game particularly appeals to fruit machine enthusiasts and classic slot players who want familiar aesthetics with modern Megaways mechanics. Those seeking consistent base game activity should look elsewhere; this is built for players comfortable with volatility who want their thrills concentrated in the bonus round.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the RTP of Joker Megaways?
Joker Megaways features an RTP of 96.56%, which is on the higher side of average for slot games. This higher-than-average return rate is paired with high volatility, meaning wins occur less frequently but can be substantial when they land. The combination makes it suitable for players who prefer extended sessions with the potential for larger payouts. -
What is the maximum win on Joker Megaways?
The maximum win on Joker Megaways is 10,000x your stake. This substantial maximum payout reflects the game’s high volatility nature and appeals to players seeking big win potential. Achieving this maximum requires hitting the bonus round with significant multiplier accumulation from multiple Joker landings. -
How do the free spins work in Joker Megaways?
Landing three Joker symbols on reels 1, 2, and 3 triggers 10 free spins. During free spins, all Joker symbols act as wilds. The game features a progressive multiplier starting at 1x that increases by +1 with every Joker symbol landed during the bonus round. Free spins can be retriggered if three additional Jokers appear, adding 10 more spins and further boosting the multiplier potential. -
Does Joker Megaways have a bonus buy feature?
Yes, Joker Megaways includes a Bonus Buy feature that costs 100x your stake. When activated, it guarantees three Joker symbols on the next spin, immediately triggering the free spins bonus round. Note: This feature is not available in UK jurisdictions due to regulatory restrictions, so UK players will need to rely on natural triggering through base game play. -
What is the volatility of Joker Megaways?
Joker Megaways has high volatility, meaning wins occur less frequently but can be substantial when they do land. The combination of high volatility with a 96.56% RTP makes the game suitable for players who enjoy extended sessions with realistic potential for larger payouts. High volatility also means brief playing sessions can feel particularly quiet until a feature event occurs. -
Who developed Joker Megaways and what Megaways licence do they use?
Joker Megaways was developed by Games Inc, a UK-based gaming developer founded in 2012. Games Inc partnered with Relax Gaming to gain access to the Megaways licence through Big Time Gaming. Joker Megaways represents the first Vegas-style game from this Games Inc and Relax Gaming partnership, launching in July 2020. -
What is the minimum and maximum bet on Joker Megaways?
Joker Megaways offers an extensive betting range with a minimum bet of €0.10 and a maximum bet of €100 per spin. The unusually high maximum bet for a Megaways slot makes it accessible to both casual players seeking lower stakes and high-stakes players willing to bet the maximum. This wide range is a genuine differentiator in the Megaways landscape. -
Can I play Joker Megaways on my mobile device?
Yes, Joker Megaways is fully available for mobile play. The game is built using HTML5 technology, ensuring responsive compatibility across all devices including Android and iOS smartphones and tablets. The responsive design adjusts the layout based on your device orientation, delivering a seamless experience whether you’re playing on a phone or tablet.
