Big Time Gaming shook up the iGaming world with the Megaways engine—offering players more ways to win than ever before. If you’ve tried Bonanza or Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, you’ve seen how BTG turned slot mechanics into something dynamic and unpredictable.
Now part of Evolution, BTG still operates independently and sticks to what it does best: highly volatile, high-quality slots built with innovation in mind. In my experience, their titles consistently deliver crisp graphics, smooth mobile performance, and game-changing features like cascading reels, symbol cloning, and dual-mode gameplay.
In this review, I’ll break down what makes BTG slots stand out, which games are worth trying first, and how South African players can access them safely and legally. Whether you’re chasing a max multiplier or just want something different, BTG offers plenty to explore.
By Adiela de Bruyn - Last modified 2025/03/24 - Estimated reading time: 9 minutes.
I’ve tested plenty of casino software, and Big Time Gaming stands out for both its highs and lows. The mobile-first trend has reshaped the industry, and BTG jumped on early, delivering slots that run smoothly on nearly every device. While I think the developer’s pace could pick up, the creativity behind its core games remains impressive.
Creative director Ian Schmidt and CEO Nik Robinson bring fresh ideas to the table, while Huw McIntosh’s technical direction ensures everything works behind the scenes. Their combined experience shows in the way BTG games feel intuitive and polished.
Big Time Gaming launched in 2011, and it didn’t take long to shake up the scene with the Megaways engine. If you’ve played Bonanza, you’ve seen just how addictive this feature can be. It redefined what players expect from online slots.
The tech stack runs on HTML5, which means BTG slots work without a hitch on phones and tablets. That became possible thanks to a 2012 deal with CORE Gaming. Since then, most of their releases feel tailored for touchscreen play.
Still, BTG isn’t a volume developer. With under 100 games in its collection, it clearly focuses on quality over quantity. That can be a good thing—if you enjoy well-crafted games—but it also means you won’t find a new title every month.
Distribution-wise, Quickfire played a big role early on. A 2012 licensing and distribution deal helped BTG reach players at a time when competition was heating up fast.
While the company is Australian, BTG games are widely accessible worldwide. You won’t need a VPN to view their site, but real-money gameplay still depends on whether your chosen casino is licensed to offer their games.
The Evolution Acquisition
In 2021, Evolution snapped up Big Time Gaming in a deal worth 450 million euros. That acquisition surprised a few of us, but in hindsight, it made perfect sense. Evolution had already taken over NetEnt, so this was a logical next step.
Even though Evolution is headquartered in Sweden, BTG still operates from Australia. I’ve noticed they’ve kept their distinct design approach, and so far, Evolution hasn’t watered down the core BTG experience.
License and Registration
From what I’ve seen, Big Time Gaming ticks the boxes in terms of licensing. Their first gaming license came from the Alderney Gambling Control Commission, and that set the tone for their global reach.
Other respected regulators that have granted BTG licenses include:
Malta Gaming Authority
UK Gambling Commission
Gibraltar Gambling Commission
The company is officially registered in Australia, where its operational base remains to this day.
Awards and Recognitions
Even with just over 59 slots in its lineup, Big Time Gaming has earned plenty of industry respect. I’ve followed their track record, and their standout achievement is the multiple wins at the EGR B2B Awards for Innovation in Slots Provision, from 2017 to 2021. That kind of consistency says a lot.
The Megaways Revolution
I’ve played a lot of Megaways slots, and I always trace the engine back to BTG. Free spins and multipliers may come standard these days, but Megaways changed the whole experience. With up to 117,649 ways to win, even a single spin feels loaded with possibilities.
The core idea is simple but powerful: the number of symbols on each reel shifts every spin. One round may give you 324 ways to win, and the next one, over 100,000. That makes every spin unpredictable and dynamic.
Games like Dragon Born Megaways introduced the concept, but Bonanza truly launched it into the mainstream. These days, Megaways has become a licensed feature used by other developers, but BTG still feels like the king of that domain.
It’s worth noting, though, that some newer slots from other providers now go beyond 200,000 ways to win. BTG hasn’t pushed past its original limits, but what it offers still holds up.
What I also like is the inclusion of mystery symbols. These features boost the suspense and can change the outcome with a single transformation. It’s a smart touch that keeps gameplay fresh and exciting.
If you're new to Megaways, I'd suggest playing a few demo rounds first. Most South African casinos allow you to test these games without spending a cent, which is ideal for getting used to the changing paylines and bonus triggers.
A few Big Time Gaming games as shown on their website.
Key Big Time Gaming Game Features
Everyone knows about Megaways, but BTG games offer more than that. I’ve spotted a few patterns that set them apart from other slot developers.
High-end 3D graphics that load smoothly on mobile and desktop
Audio design tailored to the game’s vibe—music isn’t just background noise, it sets the mood
Clutter-free layout with dynamic pay systems like Clutter-pay
CEO Nik Robinson once said music flows through every game—and I agree. BTG games almost always deliver a chill, immersive audio backdrop that works surprisingly well. When I played on mobile, the load times were quick, controls were smooth, and most games adjusted well to both portrait and landscape modes.
If you're in South Africa, it's easy to access most BTG games on your phone. Just ensure your browser is up to date, and the casino platform you're using supports mobile play optimally.
Big Time Gaming Timeline
Key Milestones in Big Time Gaming History
2011
Big Time Gaming founded in Australia
2012
Partnership with Quickfire and CORE Gaming
2016
Launch of Bonanza and global rise of Megaways
2021
Acquired by Evolution for €450 million
2022+
Continued focus on innovation and volatility-driven gameplay
Top Big Time Gaming Games
Over the years, I’ve tested dozens of Big Time Gaming slots, but a few titles consistently stand out. These games are not only player favourites but also demonstrate BTG’s signature mechanics and themes. Here are my top picks, especially popular at South African online casinos.
Bonanza
This is the slot that made Megaways a household name. It offers up to 117,649 ways to win, and every spin can feel like a rollercoaster. With cascading reels and a mining theme, it creates explosive wins—sometimes literally.
It has a 96% RTP and a maximum win of 10,000x your bet. The standout feature for me is the DUELREACTION mechanic, which lets symbols fall in both directions. It’s rare and makes even small bets feel thrilling.
Who Wants to Be a Millionaire Megaways
Inspired by the famous game show, this slot brings high drama to the reels. It includes free spins, unlimited multipliers, and the tension of choosing your path up the prize ladder.
It’s BTG’s first branded slot and includes 117,649 ways to win, just like Bonanza. With a max win of 50,000x, it’s one of the most volatile yet rewarding games out there. I recommend starting in demo mode if you’re new to the format.
King of Cats
This is where BTG’s creativity shines. The slot features a switchable dual-mode system: Lion and Puma. Each mode changes the volatility, visuals, and features. Lion mode offers huge multipliers, while Puma mode focuses on free spins and wilds.
I love how different the modes feel. You can play aggressively or take a more cautious route—something not many slots offer. Max win? Over 56,000x.
Queen of Riches Megaways
If you enjoy Egyptian themes, this one’s worth checking out. With up to 117,649 paylines and full-reel wild multipliers, it blends ancient aesthetics with modern slot mechanics.
The cloned reels feature can multiply your wins by up to 49x. It doesn’t include free spins, but the visual punch and volatility still make it worthwhile.
Book of Gods
A step away from Megaways, this game uses 243 paylines and keeps things simpler—but still exciting. It features symbol cloning and free spins. The RTP is 96.35% with a max win of 10,000x.
If you want something classic yet polished, this is a great entry point. Try the demo mode first to explore the mechanics.
Conclusion
Big Time Gaming may not release new titles every month, but when they do, they bring fresh mechanics and bold concepts. From Megaways to dual-mode slots like King of Cats, BTG has a talent for making every spin feel unique.
I recommend their slots if you enjoy high volatility and innovative features. That said, the limited release schedule can be frustrating if you're always looking for something new. Still, the existing portfolio covers a wide range of themes and play styles.
For South African players, BTG games are widely available at licensed online casinos. Play responsibly, explore demo versions first, and always stick to your budget. There’s a lot to enjoy if you pace yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions about Big Time Gaming
Can I play Big Time Gaming slots for free?
Yes, you can. Most licensed South African online casinos offer Big Time Gaming slots in demo mode. I often use the free version to test game mechanics, especially for complex titles like King of Cats or Bonanza. It’s a great way to get familiar without risking your bankroll.
What makes Megaways games from BTG different?
Megaways slots change the number of symbols on each reel with every spin, offering up to 117,649 ways to win. This dynamic layout adds unpredictability and excitement. Big Time Gaming invented this mechanic, and in my experience, it completely changed how I approach slot gameplay.
Are Big Time Gaming slots available on mobile?
Absolutely. All BTG games use HTML5, so they run smoothly on both Android and iOS devices. I’ve tested several titles on mobile, and the experience was fast, responsive, and glitch-free—even in landscape mode.
Which Big Time Gaming slot has the highest payout?
From what I’ve seen, King of Cats offers one of the highest max wins at 56,620x your bet. If you’re chasing big multipliers and don’t mind volatility, this slot is a solid pick. The dual-mode feature also adds more control over your play style.
Is Big Time Gaming a licensed and safe provider?
Yes. BTG holds multiple gaming licenses from the UK, Malta, Alderney, and Gibraltar. I only recommend playing their games on licensed casino sites that operate legally in South Africa to make sure everything remains fair and secure.
Does Big Time Gaming release new games regularly?
Not really. Compared to other providers, BTG has a slower release schedule. But in my experience, each new title is usually worth the wait. They focus more on innovation and less on quantity, which shows in how polished their games feel.
Author and fact checker: Adiela de Bruyn
Expertise: Online casino reviews, player insights, and marketing strategies.
Experience: 10+ years. Former croupier, casino enthusiast, and contributor to South Africa's online gambling regulations.
