Slot machine symbols are the beating heart of every online slot game, from classic cherries and BARs to wilds and scatters. But these icons aren’t just decorative; they determine your fate with every spin and shape the gameplay experience.
In this guide, I’ll break down the different types of slot machine symbols you’re likely to encounter and explain what each of them means. Whether you’re a complete slots newbie or just curious about how symbols impact your gaming experience, I’ve got you covered. Let’s take a closer look at what each symbol does and why it matters.
What is a slot machine symbol?
A slot machine symbol is a visual icon that appears on the reels of a slot game and is directly correlated to any winnings you receive. To receive these winnings, you’ll usually need to line up matching symbols. Moreover, each symbol has its own value or function; some award payouts, while others trigger bonus features like free spins or mini-games. There are several types of slot symbols, including classic symbols (like fruits and sevens), wild symbols (which substitute for others), scatter symbols (which often trigger bonuses), and bonus symbols (which unlock special features).
What are the classic slot machine symbols?
Classic slot machine symbols are the traditional icons that date back to the early days of mechanical slots. However, these symbols are still used today and are often a great way for new players to get started, as they offer simple gameplay. Here is the classic slot machine symbols list:
| Slot machine symbols | Meaning/use | Typical value |
| Cherry | The fruit symbol that often acts as a small win or a “nudge” for other combinations. | Low payout |
| Lemon | Another fruit symbol, similar to the cherry, often offers small payouts. | Low payout |
| Orange | Part of the fruit-themed symbols, similar to cherries and lemons. | Low payout |
| Plum | Another fruit symbol that can trigger small payouts. | Low payout |
| Watermelon | Part of the fruit family, often leading to low or medium payouts. | Low to medium payout |
| Bar | Represents the classic “Bar” symbol. Variations include single, double, and triple bars. | Low to medium payout |
| Bell | The Liberty Bell is the origin of the term “slot machine.” It usually represents a higher payout. | Medium to high payout |
| Diamond | Represents a valuable symbol, often used in vintage machines for big wins. | High payout |
| Seven (7) | The most iconic and high-paying symbol in classic slots, often triggering large payouts. | High payout |
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What are wild symbols?
The wild symbols on a slot machine have a unique ability to substitute for any other symbol to create a winning combination. So, while they do not normally have a specific value, this ability makes them highly sought after. However, different slot games can often utilize these symbols in different ways. Here are some different examples of common wild variants:
- Standard Wilds
– These simply substitute for regular symbols (except scatters or bonus icons).
- Expanding Wilds
– When they land, they stretch to cover the entire reel.
- Sticky Wilds
– These stay in place for a set number of spins, giving you more shots at a win.
- Walking Wilds
– They move across the reels with each spin until they disappear.
- Multiplier Wilds
– Not only do they substitute, but they also multiply your win, sometimes by 2x, 3x, or even more.
How do scatter slot machine symbols work?
Scatter slot machine symbols are special symbols that typically trigger bonus features, regardless of their position on the reels. Unlike regular symbols, scatters don’t need to appear on a specific payline to be effective, they only need to land in the required quantity anywhere on the screen. When a certain number of scatter symbols appear (usually three or more), they often activate bonus rounds, such as free spins, mini-games, or other interactive features. While the exact function of a scatter symbol can vary depending on the game’s design, it is generally used to unlock rewarding gameplay opportunities.
How do bonus slot machine symbols work?
Bonus symbols are a common feature of more modern slot machines, including
quick hit slots. These symbols are special icons that trigger a bonus feature or mini-game within a slot, typically when a specific number of them land on the reels. These symbols often lead to interactive rounds that are separate from the base gameplay, offering the potential for higher rewards, free spins, or other impressive features.
Bonus symbols usually need to appear in a certain configuration, such as on specific reels or in consecutive order, to activate their feature. Moreover, the type of bonus round they unlock can vary widely between games, ranging from simple pick-and-win features to elaborate multi-level games. These symbols are designed to add variety and excitement by offering a more engaging way to win beyond traditional paylines.
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The importance of understanding the slot machine pay table
The pay table is like your slot game cheat sheet, it tells you exactly how the game works before you even spin the reels. It breaks down how much each symbol is worth, how many of them you need to land to get paid, and what combinations trigger bonuses or special features. Think of it as the instruction manual for winning.
Learning the pay table won’t affect your chances of landing a win, but it will greatly improve your knowledge and understanding of the game, leading to a more enjoyable gaming experience. You’ll know which symbols to look out for, how wilds and scatters behave, and what to expect from the game’s bonus rounds. It can also reveal details like paylines, volatility, and the game’s RTP (Return to Player).
What the slot machine symbols mean for RTP
Slot machine symbols don’t directly change a game’s RTP (Return to Player), but they play an important role in how the RTP is achieved. The value, frequency, and function of symbols are all factored into a game’s payout structure, which is used to calculate the overall RTP.
Here’s how symbols affect RTP behind the scenes:
- Low-paying symbols:
These show up more frequently, leading to smaller but more regular wins that contribute steadily to the RTP.
- High-paying symbols:
These typically appear less often but offer larger rewards. Their rarity helps balance the RTP.
- Bonus rounds and features:
Triggered by certain symbols, these are factored into the RTP even if you don’t hit them often.
So, while symbols don’t change the RTP, they determine how that theoretical payout percentage plays out over time. This could be through frequent small wins or rare high-value bonuses.
Top tips to utilize symbols on a slot machine
You might be tempted to start spinning the reels now that you know the ins and outs of the slot machine symbols. But if you follow these
slot tips and advice, you’ll be in an even better position to maximize these games:
Before spinning, check the game’s pay table. It explains what each symbol does, how much it pays, and which ones trigger features like free spins or bonuses.
Wild symbols can substitute for most other symbols, helping you complete winning lines. Look for games with special wilds, like expanding or multiplier wilds, for even more fun.
🎰 Play slots with bonus rounds
Bonus symbols are usually the key to launching high-paying bonus games. These games can provide fun, excitement, and generous rewards.
🚀 Stay updated on new features
Slot developers often release games with innovative symbols like splitting wilds or symbol upgrades. Keeping up with new mechanics ensures you’re not missing out.
💰 Bet conservatively at first
If this is your first time hearing about all the different slot machine symbols, it’s a good idea to start with small bets. As you become more comfortable with the symbols and the pay table, you can increase your bets responsibly.
Final verdict on the symbols on a slot machine
Understanding the slot machine symbols is essential if you’re serious about playing these games. This knowledge will mean you can quickly work out the different features of the game, including any potential bonus round or free spins that you could get your hands on. Additionally, an understanding of the pay table will mean you know exactly which symbols to look for so you can get excited as soon as they land on your screen. Whether you’re playing a classic fruit machine slot or a modern video slot, having read this guide, you’re now fully prepared to take them all on in style. Happy spinning!
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Slot machine symbols FAQs
🎰 What is the Slot Machine symbols meaning?
Slot machine symbols represent different values or functions within a slot game. Some symbols form winning combinations, while others, like wilds, scatters, and bonus symbols, trigger special features such as free spins or mini-games. Ultimately, each symbol has a specific role in how the game plays and pays out.
🤔 Can I play online slot games for free?
Most online casinos will require a deposit of some kind to play slot games. However, you can use various promotions, including the
latest no deposit codes for existing players, as a way to try slots without spending any of your own money.
❓ Are bonus symbols the same as scatters?
Not always. While both trigger features, scatter symbols typically award free spins or instant payouts, and bonus symbols usually launch a separate feature or mini-game. However, the exact rules depend on the specific slot.
