Hypernova Megaways is a dynamic online slot game from the Australian developer ReelPlay. Released in 2019, it marked the studio’s first foray into the Megaways system, which has become a benchmark in the iGaming industry. With up to 117,649 ways to win, cascading reels, and a captivating Jackpot Respin feature, Hypernova Megaways balances modern mechanics with straightforward gameplay. Designed to cater to both casual players and seasoned slot enthusiasts, this game offers medium-to-high volatility, a 96.095% RTP, and a maximum payout of 8,640x your stake.
Developer Background: ReelPlay
ReelPlay, formerly known as Chance Interactive, is a Sydney-based game studio founded in 2014. Despite its limited portfolio, the developer gained initial recognition with slots like Buster Hammer and Buster Hammer Carnival. The studio achieved greater prominence after acquiring a Megaways license through Relax Gaming in 2018, allowing it to incorporate this popular game engine into its titles.
Hypernova Megaways represents ReelPlay’s first Megaways slot, showcasing its potential to compete in a crowded market dominated by larger studios. By blending polished visuals with innovative features, ReelPlay has solidified its reputation as a studio worth watching in the competitive iGaming industry.
Theme and Visuals
Hypernova Megaways embraces a space theme, with the action unfolding against a vibrant galaxy backdrop filled with luminous blue and orange supernovas. The reel symbols are a mix of traditional card values (9, 10, J, Q, K, and A) and vivid gemstones, including a sapphire, an emerald, a ruby, and a diamond.
The design incorporates neon lighting effects, adding a modern touch, while subtle animations—like the pulsing Scatter symbols—enhance the visual experience. The soundtrack complements the celestial theme with an atmospheric score that would feel at home in a sci-fi movie.
Game Mechanics
Hypernova Megaways is built around the Megaways game engine, licensed from Big Time Gaming. This system dynamically adjusts the number of symbols on each reel with every spin, creating up to 117,649 ways to win. Each reel can display between 2 and 7 symbols, and an additional horizontal reel at the top adds extra chances to form winning combinations.
One of the standout mechanics is the Cascading Reels feature. Whenever a winning combination lands, the winning symbols disappear, allowing new ones to drop into place. This can trigger multiple wins from a single spin, adding excitement and value to every round.
The slot’s medium-to-high volatility ensures a balance between frequent smaller wins and the possibility of larger payouts. Betting ranges from $0.40 to $60 per spin, catering to both casual players and high rollers. The maximum payout is an impressive 8,640x your stake, making the game appealing to those seeking significant potential rewards.
Symbols and Paytable
Hypernova Megaways features a mix of low-value card symbols and higher-value gemstones. Each symbol has its payout value, depending on the number of matches in a payline. Here’s a detailed paytable for a 6-symbol combination:
| Symbol | 6 on a Payline | 5 on a Payline | 4 on a Payline | 3 on a Payline | 2 on a Payline |
| Diamond | 100x | 30x | 10x | 5x | 2x |
| Ruby (Heart) | 5x | 2.5x | 1.5x | 0.5x | – |
| Emerald (Square) | 2.5x | 1.5x | 0.75x | 0.25x | – |
| Sapphire (Triangle) | 2x | 1x | 0.5x | 0.25x | – |
| A (Ace) | 1.2x | 0.6x | 0.3x | 0.2x | – |
| K (King) | 1x | 0.6x | 0.3x | 0.15x | – |
| Q (Queen) | 0.9x | 0.5x | 0.3x | 0.15x | – |
| J (Jack) | 0.7x | 0.5x | 0.25x | 0.15x | – |
| 10 | 0.6x | 0.4x | 0.2x | 0.1x | – |
| 9 | 0.5x | 0.4x | 0.2x | 0.1x | – |
Bonus Features
Hypernova Megaways introduces several exciting bonus elements that enhance gameplay and increase win potential:
Jackpot Respin Feature
The Jackpot Respin is the game’s primary bonus. It activates when 6 or more Scatter symbols (depicted as supernova icons) land on the reels. Here’s how it works:
- Initial Respins. Players receive 3 respins to start.
- Sticky Scatters. All triggering Scatter symbols remain locked in place, and the remaining positions respin.
- Reset Respins. Each new Scatter resets the respin counter to 3.
- Bonus Ends. The feature ends when all positions are filled with Scatters or the respins run out.
At the end of the bonus, each Scatter reveals either a cash value (1x to 100x) or a Jackpot prize:
- Platinum. 2,000x your stake
- Gold. 250x your stake
- Silver. 50x your stake
- Bronze. 10x your stake
Cascading Reels
Winning combinations trigger this feature, removing the winning symbols and replacing them with new ones. This allows players to land multiple wins in a single spin, adding a dynamic element to gameplay.
Horizontal Reel Wilds
The extra horizontal reel introduces Wild symbols, which substitute for all regular symbols to help create additional winning combinations.
RTP, Volatility, and Payouts
Hypernova Megaways offers an RTP (Return to Player) of 96.095%, placing it slightly above the industry average for online slots. This figure indicates that, over an extended period, the game returns $96.095 for every $100 wagered.
The game’s medium-to-high volatility strikes a balance between frequent smaller wins and the potential for larger payouts. This volatility level makes it suitable for players seeking both regular gameplay rewards and the chance to aim for higher jackpots.
The maximum payout for Hypernova Megaways is an impressive 8,640x your stake, achievable through the combination of cascading reels, high-paying symbols, and the Jackpot Respin feature. With bets ranging from $0.40 to $60 per spin, the potential rewards cater to both budget-conscious players and high rollers.
Mobile Compatibility
Hypernova Megaways is a fully optimized HTML5 slot, ensuring seamless performance on desktop, mobile, and tablet devices. Whether you’re playing on iOS, Android, or Windows, the game runs smoothly without the need for additional downloads. Key mobile-friendly features include:
- Autoplay Option. Configure up to 100 automatic spins for uninterrupted gameplay.
- Left-Hand Mode. A thoughtful addition for left-handed players, moving the spin button to the left side of the screen.
- Responsive Design. The game adapts to various screen sizes without compromising on graphics or functionality.
This accessibility makes Hypernova Megaways a solid choice for on-the-go players who value flexibility and convenience.
Final Thoughts
Hypernova Megaways combines the popular Megaways mechanics with a visually striking space theme, making it an engaging option for slot enthusiasts. ReelPlay’s decision to forgo a traditional free spins round in favor of the Jackpot Respin feature adds a unique twist to the gameplay, though it may not appeal to every player.
The game’s cascading reels, dynamic paylines, and medium-to-high volatility provide an excellent balance between excitement and potential rewards. While the theme may not reinvent the wheel, the polished visuals, atmospheric soundtrack, and robust bonus features ensure an enjoyable experience.
FAQ
What is the RTP of Hypernova Megaways?
The RTP of Hypernova Megaways is 96.095%, which is slightly above the average for online slots.
Does Hypernova Megaways have a free spins feature?
No, Hypernova Megaways doesn’t include a traditional free spins round. Instead, it features the Jackpot Respin, where Scatter symbols can lead to cash prizes and jackpots.
Can I play Hypernova Megaways on mobile?
Yes, Hypernova Megaways is fully optimized for mobile devices. It works seamlessly on iOS, Android, and Windows, with no need for downloads.
What is the maximum payout in Hypernova Megaways?
The maximum payout is 8,640x your stake, achievable through the cascading reels and bonus features.
How much can I bet on Hypernova Megaways?
Bets range from $0.40 to $60 per spin, catering to both casual players and high rollers.
What makes Hypernova Megaways unique?
The game stands out with its Jackpot Respin feature, offering a chance to win up to 2,000x your stake through four jackpot tiers.
