The classic symbols are cherries, bars, double bars (two bars stacked atop one another), triple bars and sevens.

The symbols that stop on a payout line determine whether a player wins. Video slots are also available with 5, 15, 20, 25 and even 50 or more paylines, accepting up to 25 credits per line.

One common configuration has nine paylines on which you can bet 1 to 5 credits. On video slots, push one button for the number of paylines you want to activate, and a second button for the number of credits wagered per line. Then hit the 'spin reels' button, or pull the handle on those few slots that still have handles, or hit a button marked 'play max credits' or 'bet max,' which will play the maximum credits allowed per spin on that machine. On reel-spinning slots, push a button marked 'play one credit' until you've reached the number of coins you wish to play.

Once payment is inserted into the currency acceptor, the equivalent amount of credits is displayed on a meter.