This change allowed manufacturers to skirt gambling laws and continue to pay out hard cash after gambling was banned in some areas. Originally, these machines paid out in chewing gum or fruit-flavored sweets, and the symbols were designed to resemble pieces of fruit. The first fruit-themed machines began to emerge in the late 19th century when gambling restrictions were beginning to take hold. In order to win a payout in a slot machine, the player must land matching symbols on an active pay line. They evoke nostalgic feelings for sweets and can help the player recall their favorite experiences with gambling.

In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, fruit symbols are associated with rewards and have a positive psychological effect on players. These are followed by fruit symbols, which can include cherries, oranges, watermelons, lemons, and plums. These are still common today, though most games only feature Aces, Kings, Queens, Jacks, and Tens. The first known symbols to appear on slot machines were playing card suits and numbers. These symbols can significantly increase a player’s chances of winning big money.

While the majority of slots use standard reel symbols, many also have scatters, wilds, sticky or multiplier symbols, and bonus rounds. The symbols used in slot machines vary depending on the machine type.

Bell fruit gum slot machine