This paper deals with the analysis of rock slope stability using the distinct element method. This method consists in analysis of the interaction of discrete block assemblage delimited by elementary joints, which permits to consider the heterogeneous, anisotropic and discontinuous features of the rock mass. In particular, we were able to show that this method, and especially the BRIG3D software, is an outstanding tool which gives informations of greatest interest in order to analyze the toppling mechanisms. We have confirmed the fundamental role of the rock mass structure with different simulations. In the case of toppling phenomena, the essential parameter is the dip of major discontinuities. It has an influence on the intensity and volume of deformations. The anisotropic and heterogeneous features of the rock mass play also an important role. It is proved by insertion of thick rock bars in the structure or varying rock block sizes in the mass. These models modified considerably the stress distribution and the deformation distribution. Finally, we have analyzed the influence of mechanical parameters such as friction angle and tangential stiffness.