Dead or Alive Megaways: A worthwhile addition to the series?
NetEnt's Dead or Alive Megaways has a lot to live up to
Across some corners of the iGaming world, there have been whispers about one of the biggest slot franchises, Dead or Alive, gaining a Megaways upgrade. It’s been rumoured for over a year that Dead or Alive Megaways is due to be released by NetEnt - but is there any truth to this?
Perhaps one of the most pressing questions is should there actually be a Megaways version of Dead or Alive? The popular wild west slot remains at the top of slot sites for a reason, and Megaways could potentially ruin the solid reputation of the game.
Ultimately, this article will dive into the rumours of Dead or Alive Megaways and if it will be a worthwhile addition to the highly regarded series.
Play the original Dead or Alive and Dead or Alive 2 here:
Megaways can enhance gameplay
Both Dead or Alive and Dead or Alive 2 only contain 5-reels with 9 paylines which is quite uncommon when compared to other online slots. Despite this, the game still remains popular but there is definite room for improvement.
Megaways can improve the overall gameplay and create a more thrilling experience for the player. The original Gonzo’s Quest was a huge hit within the iGaming community, but Gonzo’s Quest Megaways completely changed the series for the better.
Favourite features such as Free Fall Multipliers were brought back but the Megaways version added even more ways to win and a Royal Wheel to increase the free spins feature. If Dead or Alive Megaways upgraded the original Dead or Alive game to improve the free spins, multiplier and even add additional features - then Megaways would be welcomed.
Correct any mistakes from the original games
Whilst the original Dead or Alive still holds up - it’s not perfect. The sequel, Dead or Alive 2, stepped up the series to the next level showing just what the first game lacked. A Megaways version of the first game could completely revamp it.
The original payout in Dead or Alive is respectable for 2009, but low for modern audiences at 12,000x your stake. Dead or Alive 2 increased this to a whopping 111,111x your stake which is one of the biggest out there. There’s no way that Dead or Alive Megaways could have this colossal amount but something at least half of this would vastly improve the experience.
Another feature that could be improved upon is the free spins mode that delivers up to 12 free spins. It would be refreshing to see different types of free spins like in the sequel or even a respin mechanic like Link & Win or Hold & Spin.
Megaways isn’t always beneficial
For a majority of online slots, Megaways can add new life and completely revitalise something that is perhaps old fashioned or out of date. However, it is worth noting that Megaways is not an instant fix and doesn't have the power to completely fix everything.
One of the most notable examples that come to mind is Divine Fortune and the Megaways version Divine Fortune Megaways. Most of the features are kept the same with the slot only really adding Megaways.
Sadly, the RTP and overall maximum win are changed to be a lot smaller. Sequels are supposed to improve upon everything, not make them worse. Most players prefer to stick to the original, which could be the case for Dead or Alive Megaways if the game fails to improve upon anything.
There are other mechanics out there
Whilst Megaways is the biggest mechanic in the iGaming world, it is not the only one. Within the past few years, more and more developers have been trying to recreate the Megaways magic with a unique mechanic.
Dead or Alive Megaways doesn't necessarily just need Megaways as it could contain Megaways and another mechanic. Odin Infinity Reels Megaways contains both Megaways and Infinity Reels to lead to unlimited potentials. Whilst there are some slots that have combined these mechanics, it's still only a handful that would make Dead or Alive Megaways stand out even more.
Another point worth mentioning is that Megaways isn't the only option. Dead or Alive with Cluster Pays would be an interesting concept and make for intriguing gameplay that matches symbols rather than paylines.
Dead or Alive Megaways has a lot to live up to
If the rumoured Dead or Alive Megaways is true, then it needs to be something special or it will fade into oblivion like many other cash-grab Megaways slots.
The original Dead or Alive and Dead or Alive 2 are both beloved slots that deserve the right upgrade as they are some of the greatest online slots out there. Let's just hope that NetEnt gives the series the VIP treatment it deserves.
Play the original Dead or Alive and Dead or Alive 2 here: