Slot machines are closely linked with fruit symbols like cherries, lemons, and oranges. Whether you’ve visited a high street arcade or played online, you’ll likely have seen these familiar icons.
For many, the sight of three cherries in a row is instantly recognisable, but the meaning and popularity of classic fruit imagery is not always clear. With so many new slot designs out there, you might wonder why these old favourites continue to appear.
To shed light on this, let’s look at why fruit symbols became a staple on slot reels, and explore what it means when you land three cherries. Read on to learn more.
Why Do Slot Machines Have Fruit Symbols on Their Reels?
Fruit symbols have featured on slot machines for over a hundred years. Back in the early 1900s, gaming laws in the UK and elsewhere meant cash payouts weren’t allowed. Instead, machines awarded sweets or chewing gum, with fruit symbols showing which flavour you’d won. Three lemons, for example, might mean a lemon-flavoured sweet, while cherries pointed to cherry-flavoured gum.
As laws changed and cash prizes returned, manufacturers kept the fruit symbols because they’d become part of the game’s identity. This tradition continues today, especially in the UK, where the term “fruit machine” is still widely used.
Today, these symbols are mostly about recognition and nostalgia. Many enjoy the comfort of classic images, even as new-features and themed games appear, especially online. You may also notice features like Megaways or cascading reels, which offer different ways to play—details about these can usually be found in the game’s rules or paytable. Slot outcomes are always random; there’s no certain way to predict or influence results.
Players should always remember to gamble responsibly and within their means- never wager more than you can afford to lose.
What Does 3 Cherries on a Slot Machine Mean?
Seeing three cherries land on a slot machine often marks a win, typically among the smaller rewards on the paytable. In classic UK fruit machines, cherries are one of the lower-paying icons. How much you win will depend on the specific game and how much you bet.
Over the years, matching cherries could mean a small cash payout or even trigger a bonus feature. Some classic machines awarded sweets, but today, cash prizes are the norm. You could always check a slot’s paytable to see what three cherries—or any other combination—is worth.
Slot machines, whether in a pub or online, work with Random Number Generators (RNGs). This means each spin is independent, and there’s no link between one round and the next. The outcome of every spin is random and cannot be guaranteed, which is why it could be helpful to check the game rules before you consider getting started.
Why Are Fruit Symbols Still Common on Modern Slots?
Fruit symbols remain popular because they’re familiar and easy to spot, making slots welcoming for newcomers and long-time players alike. Their clear shapes and bold colours make it simple to spot wins quickly.
Developers often blend fruit symbols with new themes or features, offering a mix of nostalgia alongside mechanics like extra spins or multipliers. Cherries and lemons can appear next to bonus rounds or layouts such as Megaways or cascading reels, but this can differ between games and providers so it might be wise to check before engaging with a fruit-themed slot.
The UK’s online casinos offer both classic and modern slots, so you’ll find plenty of games with fruit icons as well as those with up-to-date entertainment themes. Players should always keep responsible gameplay in mind when engaging with gambling activities.
Are Fruit Machines and Slot Machines the Same Thing?
In the UK, “fruit machine” usually means what other places call a slot machine, but there are some subtle differences.
Fruit machines, found in pubs and arcades, most often feature fruit, bells, and bar symbols. They may also include features like "hold" and "nudge" buttons, giving a more hands-on experience compared to some other slots. Short bonus rounds or minigames are also quite common.
“Slot machine” is a broader term and includes both traditional fruit machines and the latest video slots. Online slots range from classic reels with cherries and lemons, to branded games based on TV or films and often bring in advanced features.
Features, payouts, and rules can differ widely. Checking each game’s paytable and information section might be a good idea before you play.
Play Classic Slots Online at Slots UK
At Slots UK, you’ll find plenty of classic slots featuring familiar fruit symbols as well as the latest game styles. Explore games with traditional reels or discover features like Megaways and cascading reels, suited to all sorts of preferences and playing styles.
You might pick a slot for its look, features, or bonuses—there isn’t a “best” game, just the one that fits your preferences. Setting limits on your play and knowing your budget are both good steps for safe gaming.
Slots UK is licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), with measures to support responsible play. If you enjoy the look of fruit machines, or want to see what other game themes and features are available, there’s a wide selection ready to browse.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these slot games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.