Slot machines, both physical and the ones at online casinos, are adorned with an array of symbols that contribute to the thrill of the game. The number of symbols on a reel can vary, primarily depending on the type of slot machine. Traditional 3-reel slots usually have between 10 to 12 symbols per reel, whilst more advanced 5-reel video slots can have up to 15-20 symbols per reel.
The sheer variety of symbols, from fruits and bells to numbers and characters, enhances the visual appeal and excitement of slot games. Read on to learn more about the different symbols that could appear on slots.
How Many Symbols Does A Megaways Slot Reel Have?
Megaways slots, a popular variety of online slots, bring a unique twist to the conventional format. Invented by Australian software provider Big Time Gaming, these slots feature dynamic reels with a varying number of symbols on each spin.
Typically, a Megaways slot reel can display between 2 to 7 symbols per spin. The fluctuating number of symbols means the number of ways to win also changes with each spin; the most common maximum number is up to 117,649 ways, but some can offer even more.
Is Slot Volatility Affected By The Number Of Symbols?
Slot volatility, often referred to as variance, is a term used to describe the theoretical behaviour of a particular slot game. It essentially indicates how frequently a slot is likely to pay out and how large these payouts may be.
Generally, slots with more symbols tend to have higher volatility, as there are more symbols to possibly get in the way of a winning combination, so there may be less of the same type in view. This also means wins may occur less frequently.
Conversely, slots with fewer symbols usually have lower volatility, offering smaller, more frequent payouts, as they are more likely to land more of the same symbols on the reels.
However, the volatility rating of each slot is unique, so it's best to check the volatility of the specific slot game you are choosing to play. Remember, the volatility rating is a theoretical value taken from a large sample over a long period, so the results may not necessarily reflect the displayed volatility rating in your session.
What Are The Symbols On A Slot Machine?
The symbols on a slot machine play a crucial role in determining the outcome of your spin. Each symbol has a different function and value, contributing to the complexity and excitement of the game. Here's a rundown of some common slot machine symbols:
Wild Symbols
Wild symbols are a staple of modern slot games. They can substitute for any other standard reel symbol to help form winning combinations, potentially enhancing your chances of winning a payout.
Multiplier Symbols
Multiplier symbols are another popular feature in many slot games. As the name suggests, these symbols can multiply your winnings by a certain amount if they apply to a winning combo, often leading to substantial payouts.
Scatter Symbols
Scatter symbols are unique in that they don't need to appear on a payline to trigger a win. Instead, they can appear anywhere on the reels, as long as enough land in view to award a payout as outlined in the paytable. Scatter symbols are also often responsible for triggering bonus features such as free spins or mini-games.
Bonus Symbols
Bonus symbols are typically the ticket to a game's bonus round. These symbols often trigger special features when landed in specific combinations, offering additional prizes or challenges beyond the base game.
Standard Reel Symbols
Standard reel symbols form the bulk of symbols you'll see on the reels. These can range from fruits, bells, and numbers in classic slots to thematic icons in video and 3D slots. Matching these symbols according to the game's paytable results in wins.
What Do Slot Machine Symbols Mean?
As mentioned earlier, slot machine symbols are the icons/pictures that appear on the reels of a slot machine, and they are more than just pretty pictures, they each carry a particular significance and function.
As outlined above, different symbols can trigger various game features, add to your winnings, or determine the game outcome. The meaning of these symbols can often tie into the theme of the slot, adding an extra layer of immersion to your gaming experience.
Slot Machine Symbols FAQs
What Does 3 Lemons on a Slot Machine Mean?
In many traditional fruit machines, landing three lemon symbols on a payline usually results in a moderate payout. However, the exact payout can vary based on the slot's specific paytable.
What Fruits are on Slot Machines?
Classic fruit machines typically feature a variety of fruit symbols, including cherries, lemons, oranges, plums, watermelons, and grapes. The fruit symbols are a nod to the early history of slot machines when winnings were often paid out in gum instead of money.
Why Do Some Slot Machines Have Fruit on Them?
The presence of fruit symbols on slot machines dates back to the early 20th century. During a time when cash payouts were illegal, slot machines paid out in fruit-flavoured chewing gums. The symbols on the reels represented the flavours of gum you could win.
What Does 777 Mean on a Slot Machine?
In many slot machines, especially classic ones, landing three 7s (777) on a payline often triggers a big payout. The number 7 is considered lucky in many cultures, which is why it's often featured in slot games.
What Are The Most Common Slot Machine Symbols?
The most common slot machine symbols depend on the type of slot. Traditional fruit machines frequently feature fruits, bells, BARs, and 7s, while video slots often include a variety of symbols tied to the game's unique theme. However, wilds and scatters are common features across various slot types, though the design of these can vary from one slot to the next.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this slot game are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.