- Great graphics and music
- Popularised the Megaways format
- Unlimited Multipliers & Free Spins
- Free Spins Round takes a while to trigger
- Lacks in payouts compared to other Megaways slots
- Letters as low paying symbols
Wondering how MEGAWAYS online pokies came to be? Bonanza slot is a must-play slot game for anyone who appreciates vibrant and lively casino games that carry the Megaways feature. Developed by Big Time Gaming this Megaways slot went live in December 7th of 2016. It is not the first megaways slot game to ever be created, but it’s so popular that it is considered as such. It was thanks to Bonanza that the Megaways engine of Big Time Gaming became a hit, resulting in numerous slots being rebranded using this gameplay; take for instance Gonzos Quest, Piggy Riches, and Spartacus, which have all a Megaways version.
With an average RTP of 96% and a medium to high volatility, Bonanza is a pretty solid gaming option. With the bet levels ranging from $0.20 – $20 per spin, this game is inviting for all sorts of players. There are some tantalizing bonuses and a vibrant gameplay apparent here, as well as a maximum potential win of 12,000x the bettors’ stake.
$1500
+50 FREE Spins
$20 FREE
code POKIES20FREE
Plus 200% Match + 200 Free Spins 2x times with code: POKIES200
$25 FREE CHIP
Code: 25JOURNEY
WGR: 60x / Max. cash-out: $180
Theme & Design
It’s true that today, players can find and enjoy numerous titles under the title ‘Bonanza’. Still, Bonanza Megaways remains the most popular game that employs the mining theme. With symbols linked to rare rocks, dynamite, carts, and the classic letters – the theme is thoroughly represented in a 3D format.
Bonanza game grid is located in front of a mine, while the actual reels depict select stone walls, which change in size according to the active ways to win in each round. The background opens when players land the letters G-O-L-D on the reels, illustrating that the potential to actually find GOLD becomes reachable through the free spins of the game.
The overall gameplay is very lively, with the vibrant music beautifully complementing the players’ experience. ‘Yiiiiha’ is the sound that you want to hear as you are spinning Bonanza Megaways reels, as it is the sound effect that is followed after every win. Be careful though, as the music in Bonanza can easily push you to spin the reels faster than you planned, due to its rushing tempo.
How to Play Bonanza Slots
Getting started with Bonanza Megaways is as simple as with any other slot game. There are the standard (-) and (+) buttons that will help you to adjust your bet levels, while there are no paylines to activate. Due to its Megaways format, there are varying ways to win in each round, reaching up to 117,649. Thus, after setting your bet level, you can hit the play now button and hope for the best.
Wins are formed by landing identical symbols on at least 3 adjacent reels, counting the top extra bar. Alternatively, players who land 2 identical symbols and a wild will also form a win. After every winning combination the winner symbols explode, creating space for new symbols to appear, and therefore newer winning opportunities. The maximum win in the base game comes from the diamonds, which pay 50x the bet level when 6 land on the reels.
Bonanza Free Spins & Bonus Features
We have already touched upon a few of the bonuses available at Bonanza Megaways, but we have not even began exploring the most lucrative one – the unlimited free spins.
Wild Symbols
Represented by the dynamite, players can land 1 or more wilds on the Bonanza reels during both the base and the bonus game. This symbol operates as a substitute, creating way more chances to form a winning combination.
Reactions Feature
As we touched upon, whenever players land a winning combo at Bonanza, the symbols explode, making space for new symbols to land on the reels. The same effect is repeated until no more wins are formed on the reels, whereby players will have to pay to trigger a new spin.
Free Spins
Bonanza free spins round is one that often takes a while to trigger. Formed by 4 Scatter Symbols, players need to land the letters G, O, L, and D on the reels to unlock it. The order of the letters does not matter, while these can even be on the same reel. Landing over the 4 required letters on the reels will add 5 extra free spins to the original 12.
During the bonus game, players can win more free spins by matching 3 or more carts. For every 3 carts players are awarded 5 extra spins, which are not capped at any level.
Unlimited Multiplier
Probably the best aspect of Bonanza Megaways is the multiplier that comes into play during the bonus round. After every win, and reaction win, during the bonus game of Bonanza Megaways, the multiplier increases by 1 up to an unlimited amount.
Stats & Mechanics of this Slots Game
Bonanza Megaways is an absolute sensation when it comes to its gameplay. The BGT engine cannot be matched by any classic slot machine, which is why this game is so beloved by players. The bet levels are inviting, while the max win during any free spin is a stunning 12,000x the original bet level. When you wrap your head around that number, consider the unlimited potential of multipliers and free spins, which can end up boosting your bankroll like no other slot.
The RTP and the volatility levels are average, but this is rarely reflected in the time required to trigger the free spins bonus. This is probably the biggest con of this game based on players’ reports.
| Bonanza | Statistics |
| Return to Player (RTP) | 96% |
| Bet Levels | $0.20 – $20 per spin |
| Volatility/Variance | Medium – High |
| In-Game Bonuses | Wilds, Scatters, Free Spins, Reactions, Unlimited Multiplier |
| Demo Play Available? | No |
| Theme | Mining |
| Max Win | 12,000x |
| Developer | Big Time Gaming |
| Ways to Win | 6 reels and 117,649 maximum winning ways |
| Related Games | Fruity Bonanza, Bonanza Scatter Drops, Gonzos Quest Megaways |
Our Verdict
In 2021, there are many games that have similar gameplay to Bonanza, which is why we alter our rating to reflect the current environment. Back in the day we would have given this game a solid 10/10 due to its innovative gameplay, solid max payout, and elevating music and graphics. Now, the gameplay is pretty standard, the payouts and RTP along most slot games, which leaves the last two complementing elements as its unique aspects.
Further, the scatters take a while to land on the reels, which is another negative aspect of Bonanza Megaways slot game. Thus, we give this title a 7/10, without, however, downplaying its tremendous influence on the online slots landscape.
Bonanza Slot FAQs
Due to the popularity of this title, we have added a few more pointers to clarify things in relation to Bonanza slots.
There are different reports about the RTP of Bonanza, while its developers has not published this information. Based on our play-time and reports, we rate this game as medium-high volatility game. Although the bonus game might take about 130 spins to be triggered (on average), the base gameplay is pretty rewarding.
Although there is no progressive jackpot apparent in Bonanza Megaways slot (as is the case with all Megaways games), the 12,000x maximum payout is higher than your average jackpot prize.
The theoretical return to player rate of Bonanza is 96%, although this is calculated over 1,000,000 spins. This means that players might experience a different experience than the suggestive $96 return for every $100.
Check out the best online casinos that offer slots from Big Time Gaming; most pokies apps include Megaways games, like Bonanza, in their catalogues, as it is one of the most popular slots of all times.
Although Bonanza was released back in 2016, it is one of the best mobile pokies, being compatible with all iOS & Android devices.
- About the Author
- Affiliate Disclosure
Michael has reviewed and verified all information on this page. Having worked in the iGaming industry for over 8 years, he is the most capable person to help you navigate online casinos, pokies, and the Australian gambling landscape.
