The Value of Different Slot Game Symbols

There are a lot of choices when it comes to online slot games today. With so much competition, each developer has to come up with different ways of making their game unique. This usually comes in the form of different themes, game mechanics, and added features. Modifying these aspects will invariably have an effect on the variety and visuals of the symbols in play. Thousands of different slots, all with different styles and combinations of symbols, can make it difficult to learn how to play slot games.

Classic slot game symbols

Even if you have never played a slot game, you will probably still be familiar with some of the classic slot game symbols. Cherries, lemons, horseshoes, and 7s are all classic symbols that still show up in casinos and online slots today. The symbols originally represented prizes that could be won, such as different foods, e.g. fruits, candies, etc. Flavoured chewing gum was one of the most common prizes, with different combinations paying out different flavours. Modern slot games still use these to create a sense of familiarity with the classics, although they tend to mix them up with different numbers and symbols.

What are the different types of slot game symbols?

Why do the different slot symbols have different values, and what are they? Different game providers may choose to display the symbols in different ways. Despite this, each symbol tends to come under a category that can be universally applied to symbols found in other slot games. It is important to note, however, that different games can have their own additional rules tied to a specific symbol. This is particularly the case for special symbols like Scatters and Bonus symbols, and it is therefore recommended you double-check the game rules before wagering any real funds.

Low paying symbols

Lower-paying symbols are usually generic, and it is common to find the same symbols across many different slot games. These have no distinct properties other than being able to offer a payout in winning combinations. They are often represented by card values, such as 9, 10, other different numbers, or face cards. They can also be represented by the classic slot game symbols. 

High paying symbols

Symbols often tied to the theme of the slot game are generally more useful. They’re usually more distinct and easily recognizable from the more generic lower-paying ones. They function the same as lower-paying ones except they are more valuable in that they can lead to bonus games and more. 

Wilds

Wilds can take the place of other symbols. They can be used to create winning combinations when combined with low or high-paying symbols. Some games may add extra functionality to their Wilds. Sticky Wilds, for example, stay in place after you spin the reels.

Scatters

Scatters are special in that they don’t need to appear within a payline to trigger their effect. Most slot games will require at least 2 Scatters to appear on the reels, which usually provide a boost to winning rounds, sometimes in the form of a win multiplier. Landing on 3 or more Scatters can often lead to special features such as bonus rounds, free spin rounds or even jackpot payouts. 

Win Multipliers

Win multipliers add an increase to your payout depending on the amount of the multiplier. A 5x multiplier will increase your payout by 5 times. Multipliers can sometimes be locked to bonus rounds and may not appear until special conditions are met.

Bonus symbols

Many modern slot games include a bonus round that allows players to win much larger amounts than can be gained from a regular winning round. These bonus rounds usually include additional payout mechanics, such as win multipliers, re-spin options or special Wild features. Unlocking these bonus features usually requires landing on 3 or more bonus symbols or Scatters.