Online Slot Symbols Explained

Whether you're a seasoned player spinning the reels of casino slots or a newcomer to online slot games, familiarising yourself with slot machine symbols is essential.

At Virgin Games, we're all about simplifying the thrilling world of slots  - making your gameplay even more rewarding. 

So, sit back as we explore the most common slot symbols you'll come across, including Wilds, Scatters, and Bonus symbols.

Why Understanding Slot Symbols Matters

Online slot games can seem intimidating at first, especially with their flashing lights, fast-paced soundtracks, and vast variety of slot symbols. 

But video slots are a lot simpler than you would guess. And learning about the symbols on the reels can go a long way to understanding how you could win real money cash prizes. 

Here's our handy guide to slot symbols you're most likely to see...

Standard Symbols

Every slot game comes packed with standard symbols. These are often themed around traditional fruit machines, featuring cherries, lemons, and playing card symbols (10, J, Q, K, A), mythical creatures, or even popular movie characters. Matching symbols across active paylines is the simplest way to score wins. 

A quick tip: Always check the game's payable. This helps you understand which standard symbols offer higher payouts and how many you need to match.

Wild Symbols

Wild symbols are an exciting find on the reels. These symbols are known for their ability to substitute for almost any other standard symbol, helping you complete winning combinations. 

Wild symbols come in different formats, including: 

• Stacked Wilds: This types of Wild symbol covers entire reels, potentially boosting your chances of triggering a real money slot prize. 
• Sticky Wilds: Once landed, Sticky Wilds stay in place for multiple spins, creating more winning opportunities. 
• Expanding Wilds: These symbols expand to fill entire reels, providing thrilling, high-reward gameplay. 

Scatter Symbols 

Scatter symbols are game changers because they pay wherever they land, regardless of paylines. Land enough Scatters (usually three or more), and you'll trigger special features, like free slot spins or exciting bonus games. 

These symbols usually unlock bonus rounds or multipliers, significantly ramping up your potential rewards. For example, landing three Scatter symbols could trigger a Free Spins Bonus, giving you multiple chances to win without placing more wagers.

Bonus Symbols 

Bonus symbols do exactly what their name suggests; they trigger bonus rounds or mini-games, often separate from standard spins. These can be anything from wheel spins, pick-and-click games, or instant-win features, boosting gameplay variety and excitement. 

When Bonus symbols land, you'll often transition to a new screen or feature, potentially unlocking significant rewards or even progressive jackpots.

Multipliers 

Multiplier symbols have the power to increase the value of your winnings, making these symbols a red hot find. A 2x multiplier symbol could double your winnings, while a 10x multiplier could transform a modest payout into a substantial prize. 

Multipliers frequently appear during free spins or bonus rounds, further magnifying the excitement and rewards of these special features.

Jackpot Symbols 

Jackpot symbols typically feature prominently in progressive or fixed jackpot slot games. Landing a set combination of these symbols could lead to big wins! 

Jackpot symbols are usually highly unique, reflecting the theme of the slot or clearly marked to represent their value when they land.

How to Spot Symbols Easily

Slot symbols vary by game and developer, but typically, the rules remain consistent. Classic slots usually feature traditional symbol designs like fruits and bars, while modern slots may have elaborate graphics tied to themes or stories. 

 We recommend always checking the slot's paytable, located within the game itself, which clearly explains symbol values and special features. This simple step ensures you never miss out on knowing exactly what to aim for.

Practice for Free with Online Slot Demos

Feeling overwhelmed? Virgin Games offers a vast selection of free demo slots where you can familiarise yourself with various symbols, and understand how bonus features work without spending real money. 

Once confident, you can spin the reels for real and apply your newfound knowledge to play for exciting rewards.

Slot Symbols FAQs

Still have questions? Here's a quick-fire Q&A covering the most common slot symbol queries...

Do all slots have Wild symbols? 

While Wild symbols are very common, not all slots include them. Check the payable to be sure.

Can Scatter symbols appear anywhere on the reels? 

Absolutely. Scatters count wherever they land, which makes them particularly exciting to see.

What happens if I land multiple multiplier symbols? 

Typically, multipliers combine, dramatically increasing potential payouts.

Are bonus symbols available in all slots featuring bonus rounds? 

Yes, slots featuring bonus rounds always include special bonus symbols that activate these mini-games or bonus features.

What symbols are commonly found in slots featuring progressive jackpots? 

Jackpot symbols or specific combinations of high-value symbols usually trigger wins on progressive jackpots, so watch out for these in slots featuring jackpots. 

Understanding slot symbols isn't just about boosting your confidence - it significantly enhances your overall gaming experience. By knowing exactly what to look for, every spin becomes more thrilling. 

Ready to put your new knowledge to the test? Check out Virgin Games' vast selection of more than 900 online slots and start spinning today.

Want to spin the reels on top online slot games? Join Virgin Games today and claim your exclusive welcome offer to get 30 free spins* to use when you start playing slots online!