How to Win Megabucks Slot
Written by: Filip Gromovic Reviewed by: Nashon Khamala
Read time: 5 minutes
There are many progressive jackpots, and then there’s Megabucks, a glaring reminder that one spin can result in life-changing wins. This 3-reel game by IGT was released in 1986 and offers winnings starting at a staggering $10 million.
Visually, Megabucks keeps things simple yet nostalgic, featuring familiar and classical symbols like cherries, bars, and sevens. Despite its massive popularity over the years, the slot can only be found in land-based casinos across Las Vegas. But this does not take away its appeal one bit, as this just means you can soak in the buzzing atmosphere of a real casino.
Ready to give this game a shot? We have prepared a special guide on how to win money on Megabucks slot to walk you through everything you need to know. So, keep reading.

Key Features and Special Symbols
At first glance, the machine may appear simple to players, but it’s anything but that. While there are no traditional bonus rounds on this machine, it makes up for this lack with an even better feature, one that we’ll be discussing shortly.
But let’s begin by taking a look at the icons:
- Megabucks symbol – This is the jackpot icon in the game, and landing 3 on the payline can trigger a payout of $10 million and above. However, to increase your chances of winning, keep reading our guide on how to win Megabucks slot machine jackpot to find out.
- Regular symbols – The game also features classic icons like the 7’s, cherries, and bars. While these are the low–paying elements, matching three of the same kind will trigger 2 to 1,000 times your bet, depending on the machine. However, before playing, you should go through the slot’s pay table to find out the exact payout amount for each one.
Progressive Jackpot is the number one appeal of the game. The title uses a unique computerized system created by IGT, a first of its kind when it was introduced. This technology links the slots together across various casinos to form larger progressive jackpots. So, if you already know how to win money on Megabucks slot machine, keep in the back of your mind that whenever you use the machine, the value increases. And that’s because both winning and non-winning plays are counted towards it.
However, in this case, you can only qualify for the prize if you bet the maximum number of credits per play. And with this game, you’ll need to wager at most $3 during gaming sessions.
Understanding Slot Machine Mechanics
If you’re ready to hit that multi-million-dollar jackpot, it is important that you first understand the mechanics behind the game. Because there’s more to it than just spinning. If you’re new and you don’t know how to win Megabucks slot, you might think that there’s an exact method to win, but that’s not so.
First of all, the game features a spinning reel containing several symbols, and the goal is to align 3 of the same icons across the payline. When it comes to the mechanics, this title uses a random number generator (RNG), an essential part of slot machines. So, while there’s a probability that you’ll win every spin, there’s also a probability that you won’t.
Now, to another equally important part that makes up the game, the return to player (RTP). This is a rate that tells you how much money the machine will pay back over a couple of plays. For every casino game, a high RTP percentage means a better return for you as a player. However, when this percentage is average, like Megabuck’s 86%-89%, you might just start to wonder. It might interest you to know that some progressive machines generally have lower RTPs, and this is because more money goes into the jackpot contribution, unlike other games.
So, while Megabucks may look like an ordinary 3-reel machine, it has a lot going on beneath the surface.
Casinos Where You Can Try Megabucks Slot
How to Win Megabucks Slot Machine
There are several ways to win on this machine, but since this is a three-reel slot, your winnings start when you match two or three of the same symbols on the payline. We have provided you with some of the biggest Megabucks wins recorded in history and some strategies to help you win:
Amount Won | Year |
$27,580,878 | 1998 |
$34,959,458 | 2000 |
$39,713,982 | 2003 |
$13,154,723 | 2019 |

Let’s talk about strategies that will help you win at Megabucks!
- Bet the maximum credit – To win the jackpot on Megabucks, you must wager the maximum to access the top jackpot prizes. This is actually non-negotiable, as even if you land the three Megabucks symbols without it, you won’t qualify for the top prize. You’ll only get to claim a fixed payout. So, while the small wins from the 7s, cherries, and bars are enough to keep you going, the real potential lies in your $3 bet.
- Understand basic strategies – Another how to win Megabucks slot machine jackpot slots strategy lies in applying to your gaming the basics tips. While we can’t dispute the fact that casino games are based on luck, we also know that having certain knowledge of them can improve your experience. So, understand how the paylines work, know the odds, and go through the paytable before playing.
- Set win limits – Slot games are fun, yes, but you know what’s even better? Going home with an actual win. When you get lucky enough to hit multiple wins in a session, don’t use up your winnings in pursuing more. Instead, end the session and claim your payout. You can go do something else instead. But make sure you walk out with your winnings in tow.
- Have fun – Above all, remember to have fun. Enjoy the casino excitement and the music, and play slots at your own pace, especially since you can access the games without registration.

Conclusion
Megabucks isn’t just another gambling machine. It’s a chance at landing a once-in-a-lifetime win. This goes further to explain why it commands such appeal from a host of players globally. While there’s no secret code to winning, playing smart gives you an edge. Before playing slots, create a budget, get comfortable, and enjoy the atmosphere. By having a relaxed approach to the game, you can just be on your way to being a millionaire. We hope you found these tips discussed here helpful, as they’ll serve as your guide every time you visit a real-money casino.