The Mayan Stackways slot is a 2023 Hacksaw Gaming game on five reels and four rows, with 1,024 base ways to win and a top listed RTP of 96.23%. Its StackWays mechanic stacks between 2 and 10 matching symbols on a reel to create extra ways. Below we explain the mechanic, the RTP versions and what play costs.
The top RTP version is 96.23%, but lower versions exist, so check the figure at your casino.
The 5x4 grid gives 4 × 4 × 4 × 4 × 4 = 1,024 ways before StackWays adds more.
StackWays stacks 2 to 10 matching symbols on a reel, which raises the ways for that symbol.
Volatility and max win aren't confirmed in our data; the help screen shows both.
UK rules cap slot stakes at £5 a spin (£2 for 18 to 24-year-olds) and bar feature buys.
Developer
Hacksaw Gaming
RTP
96.23% (lower versions exist)
Layout
5 reels × 4 rows
Ways to win
1,024 (more via StackWays)
Released
2023
Main feature
StackWays: stacks of 2 to 10 matching symbols on a reel
Mayan Stackways slot: what you need to know
Mayan Stackways comes from Hacksaw Gaming, the Malta-based studio that launched in September 2018 and is best known for Wanted Dead or a Wild. The game takes a familiar ways-to-win grid and adds a mechanic of its own, StackWays, which piles matching symbols onto a single reel.
Mayan Stackways specifications
Item
Figure
Developer
Hacksaw Gaming
Released
2023
RTP
96.23% (top version; lower versions exist)
Grid
5 reels × 4 rows
Base ways
1,024
Main mechanic
StackWays, stacking 2 to 10 matching symbols on a reel
Volatility
Not confirmed: check the help screen
Max win
Not confirmed: check the help screen
We only state figures our checked data confirms. Where a figure is missing, the game's help screen at your casino is the place to look. Our slots hub has reviews with fuller data if you'd like to compare.
How the features work in Mayan Stackways
The base grid: 1,024 ways
Mayan Stackways uses ways to win rather than paylines. Matching symbols on adjacent reels, from the left, pay in any row. With four positions on each of five reels, there are 4 × 4 × 4 × 4 × 4 = 1,024 possible paths.
StackWays: matching symbols piled on a reel
The defining mechanic stacks between 2 and 10 matching symbols on a reel. In a ways game, every matching symbol on a reel multiplies the number of routes a win can take, so a reel carrying a stack of the same symbol counts that symbol several times over. That's how the game goes beyond 1,024 ways on some spins.
Our checked data describes the stacking itself but not the bonus rounds or extra features that may sit around it, so we won't guess at them. The game's help screen lists every feature, and the gambling.com Mayan Stackways page (opens in a new tab) gives a further overview.
Why stacked symbols multiply Mayan Stackways wins
Ways arithmetic is multiplication. For a given symbol, the number of winning ways equals the count of that symbol on reel 1, times the count on reel 2, and so on along the run. The illustration below uses made-up counts to show why a stack matters; the real stack sizes and payouts depend on the spin.
Illustration: one symbol across three reels
Reel 1 count
Reel 2 count
Reel 3 count
Sum
Ways for a three-reel win
1
1
1
1 × 1 × 1
1
2
1
1
2 × 1 × 1
2
2
5
1
2 × 5 × 1
10
2
10
3
2 × 10 × 3
60
Each extra matching symbol in a stack scales the result, so a single tall stack can turn one small win into many paying ways at once. The total RTP still includes all of this; a big stack is part of how the game delivers its average, not a bonus on top. Our multipliers page explains how other games boost wins.
Mayan Stackways RTP: why the version matters
The top version of Mayan Stackways lists a 96.23% RTP, but lower versions exist. Studios often supply a game at several RTP settings, and each casino chooses which one to run. The game looks and plays the same either way; only the long-run cost changes.
What each RTP point costs on £500 staked
RTP
Average cost per £100
Average cost on £500 staked
96.23% (top version)
£3.77
£18.85
1 point lower (95.23%)
£4.77
£23.85
2 points lower (94.23%)
£5.77
£28.85
The lower rows are illustrations of the arithmetic, not confirmed versions of this game. The point is that each percentage point lower adds £1 to the average cost of every £100 you stake. The Gambling Commission's RTS 3 standard on game rules (opens in a new tab) means the game's rules and return information must be available to you before you play, so check before staking. Our page on why slot RTPs differ between casinos explains the practice.
Mayan Stackways on a £20 budget
At the top 96.23% version, staking £20 once through costs about 75p on average (£20 × 3.77%). At a lower version it costs more. Without a published volatility rating, we can't say how widely sessions will swing, so treat the game with the same caution you'd give any modern ways slot.
£20 at the 96.23% version
Stake
Spins from £20
Average loss on £20 staked
Average cost of 500 spins
10p
200
75p
£1.89
50p
40
75p
£9.43
£1
20
75p
£18.85
The 500-spin column assumes a pace that fits within the UK minimum of 2.5 seconds per spin. Our explainer on slot volatility shows how to read a game's rating once you've found it in the help screen.
Mayan Stackways volatility and max win: checking for yourself
Two numbers players often look for, volatility and maximum win, aren't confirmed in our checked data for Mayan Stackways. Rather than repeat unverified figures, here's how to find them.
Open the game and look for an information or paytable button.
Find the volatility rating; Hacksaw games often show it on a scale, but confirm it in this one.
Look for a line stating the maximum win as a multiple of stake.
Check the RTP figure on the same screen to see which version you're on.
Compare the numbers with games you know before deciding on a stake.
Join a UK-licensed casino and complete the age and identity checks.
Launch the game and confirm the RTP, volatility and max win in the help screen.
Choose your stake per spin.
Press spin for each round; autoplay isn't available on UK slots.
Watch how matching symbols stack on the reels and add ways.
Collect any wins and check the net spend counter on screen.
Stop when you hit your time or money limit.
UK slot rules for Mayan Stackways
Every online slot at a UK-licensed casino follows the same rules. Stake limits cap a spin at £5 for players aged 25 and over and £2 for 18 to 24-year-olds, as explained in the Commission's online slots stake limit guidance (opens in a new tab). Spins must take at least 2.5 seconds, and autoplay, turbo spins and slam-stop are not allowed.
Some slots sold outside Great Britain offer bonus buys. Since a Gambling Commission warning in January 2020, feature buy-ins are not offered to British players, so any feature has to be reached through normal play. Read our feature buy page and the autoplay ban for more.
Slots like Mayan Stackways
These reviewed games share a ways-based grid or the same studio. Figures are from our checked slot data.
Stick 'Em is the nearest match on grid size. For other adventure-themed games, browse our adventure slots.
Where to play Mayan Stackways: partner offers
Our checked data doesn't show which partners carry Mayan Stackways, so check the casino's game lobby. The offers below are welcome offers for slots, on named or selected games, and Mayan Stackways isn't one of the named games. 18+ and terms apply.
PlayOJO: with a first deposit of £10 or more, new UK customers (not Northern Ireland) get 80 free spins on Big Bass Bonanza at 10p each. No wagering applies, so winnings are cash. Designated offer link only; can't be combined.
Coral: deposit and stake £10 or more on slots to receive 100 free spins on selected games, each worth 10p. Accept them within 48 hours and play them within 7 days; winnings carry no wagering. Neteller, PayPal, Paysafe, Skrill, prepaid cards and some debit cards don't qualify.
Ladbrokes: deposit and play £10 or more on slots to receive 50 free spins daily for your first 10 days, a 500 maximum, at 10p each on selected games. Claim before 23:59 every day; 7-day expiry; no wagering. Prepaid cards, PayPal, Paysafe, Neteller, Skrill and Moneybookers are excluded.
Coral and Ladbrokes belong to the same operator, LC International Limited, so you may not be able to open new accounts at both. See free spins value for how to weigh these offers.
Coral and Ladbrokes are both run by LC International Limited (Entain). If you already hold an account with one Entain brand, you may not be able to open another; check the terms first.
Significant terms: 18+. New UK customers (excluding Northern Ireland). First deposit only. Minimum deposit £10. 80 free spins on Big Bass Bonanza, £0.10 each. No wagering requirements; winnings paid in cash. Cannot be used with any other offer. Only available to players who arrive through the designated offer link. Full T&Cs apply. GamCare.org.uk
Read our PlayOJO reviewLicence: Skill On Net Limited, Gambling Commission account 39326. Offer checked 5 October 2026.
Significant terms: 18+. New players only. Offer runs 01/10/2026 to 01/02/2027. Deposit (certain types excluded) and bet £10+ on slot games to get 100 free spins (selected games, £0.10 each, 48 hrs to accept, valid 7 days). No wagering on free spin winnings. Deposits by Neteller, PayPal, Paysafe, Skrill, prepaid cards and certain debit cards do not qualify. Restrictions and T&Cs apply. GamCare.org.uk
Read our Coral reviewLicence: LC International Limited, Gambling Commission account 54743. Offer checked 5 October 2026.
Time limitClaim daily for 10 days; each batch valid 7 days
Worked valueUp to 500 spins at £0.10 (up to £50 in spins)
Significant terms: 18+. New customers only, from 14/11/25 until further notice. Certain deposit methods excluded. Deposit and spend £10+ on slots for 50 free spins a day during the first 10 days after first deposit and registration (max 500, £0.10 each, selected games, claim before 23:59 each day, valid 7 days). No wagering. Prepaid cards, PayPal, Paysafe, Neteller, Skrill and Moneybookers deposits do not qualify. Restrictions and T&Cs apply. GamCare.org.uk
Read our Ladbrokes reviewLicence: LC International Limited, Gambling Commission account 54743. Offer checked 5 October 2026.
18+. Every casino game has a built-in house edge, so over time you should expect to lose what you stake. Set a budget before you play and stop when it’s gone: safer gambling tools and support. Free, confidential help: National Gambling Helpline 0808 8020 133.
Frequently asked questions
What is the RTP of Mayan Stackways?
The top version of Mayan Stackways lists an RTP of 96.23%, an average cost of £3.77 per £100 staked over the long run. Lower RTP versions exist, and each casino decides which to run, so the figure you see may be lower. Check the help screen before you play. Our page on why RTPs differ between casinos explains why this happens.
What is StackWays?
StackWays is the mechanic in Mayan Stackways that stacks between 2 and 10 matching symbols on a reel. Because wins are counted by ways, each extra matching symbol on a reel multiplies the routes a win can take, which can push a spin beyond the base 1,024 ways. The overall RTP already includes these stacked wins. Our ways to win page explains the arithmetic behind it.
How many ways to win does Mayan Stackways have?
Mayan Stackways has 1,024 base ways to win, with more possible when StackWays stacks matching symbols on a reel. The base figure comes from five reels of four rows: four multiplied by itself five times is 1,024. Wins pay for matching symbols on adjacent reels from the left, in any row. See our Stick 'Em review for another Hacksaw game with 1,024 ways.
Who makes Mayan Stackways?
Mayan Stackways is made by Hacksaw Gaming and was released in 2023. Hacksaw launched in September 2018, is based in Malta, and its parent Hacksaw AB has been listed on Nasdaq Stockholm since 25 June 2025. It holds a Gambling Commission licence, and its best-known slot is Wanted Dead or a Wild. Our Hacksaw Gaming page lists more of its games.
What is the max win on Mayan Stackways?
We haven't been able to confirm a maximum win for Mayan Stackways from our checked data, so we don't quote one. The cap for the version you're playing is shown in the game's help screen, usually as a multiple of your stake. Wins scale with stake, and UK rules cap slot stakes at £5, or £2 for players aged 18 to 24. See max win caps explained.
Is Mayan Stackways high volatility?
We can't confirm the volatility of Mayan Stackways because our checked data doesn't include a rating. Open the game's help screen, where Hacksaw titles usually show the rating, and read it alongside the RTP. Until you know, set a modest stake so your budget lasts long enough to see how the game behaves. Our guide to slot volatility explains what the ratings mean.
Can you buy the bonus on Mayan Stackways in the UK?
No, bonus buys aren't available on UK slots. Since a Gambling Commission warning in January 2020, feature buy-ins are not offered to British players, so any feature in Mayan Stackways has to be reached through normal spins. Versions outside Great Britain may differ, but those aren't available at UK-licensed casinos. Read our page on buying bonus rounds.
Can I play Mayan Stackways in demo mode?
Yes, if your casino offers a demo, but in the UK you must verify your age before playing even free versions of casino games. A demo uses the same maths as the paid game, so it's a good way to see how StackWays behaves and to read the help screen without spending money. Our demo play guide explains how it works at UK casinos.
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