Many people don’t realise, but symbols play a big role in human life and have been central to communication for thousands of years. Long before written language, a sophisticated system of symbols, simple icons and markings were used to tell stories, mark territories and express cultural beliefs.
Symbols are always influencing how we think, talk and even how we play games. This article explores the interesting world of symbols, from how they’ve impacted history to modern media.
Ancient symbols & their meanings
Human civilisation has always relied on symbols to convey meaning, long before the invention of written words. Some of the earliest forms of communication can be found in cave paintings and petroglyphs, where early humans documented their experiences through simple images. These symbols told stories of hunting, rituals, and daily life, offering insight into prehistoric cultures.
Hieroglyphs & the language of the ancients
One of the most sophisticated early symbol systems was Egyptian hieroglyphics. Used for religious texts, governmental decrees, and personal inscriptions, hieroglyphs combined visual artistry with linguistic meaning. These symbols were more than just writing; they were deeply tied to the Egyptian worldview, often depicting gods, pharaohs, and nature in a way that connected the divine to everyday life.
Symbols in mythology & spirituality
Across cultures, symbols have carried deep spiritual meaning. Norse runes, Chinese characters, and Hindu yantras all hold symbolic power. They influence religious beliefs and guide rituals. Whether carved into stone or woven into fabric, these symbols have lasted across time, preserving traditions and shaping cultural identities for generations.
The power of symbols in modern culture
While the modern world feels so advanced, we are never far from our roots when it comes to communication and expression. Symbols still denote identity, build connections and influence movements in ways words alone cannot. Here are some ways they’re still used today:
Branding & recognition
One of the most common ways we encounter symbols is through the logos of companies. They’re potent reminders of what the brands stand for, what they do and what they sell. They’re designed to trigger all the emotions brands work hard to associate with their businesses. All the thoughts and emotions built up through years of advertising and unleashed like water through a floodgate at the sight of a logo, whether a swoosh, apple or golden arches.
Activism & cultural movements
Symbols have also played a key role in activism. Flags, hand gestures, and protest signs communicate powerful messages. They rally people behind shared causes. Whether it’s the peace sign, the raised fist, or a rainbow flag, these symbols transcend language barriers. This helps them spread and makes their messages easy to adopt, turning them into global movements.
The rise of digital symbols
The digital age has introduced a new wave of visual communication. Emojis, memes, and reaction GIFs have replaced words in many online conversations. These symbols convey emotions and ideas instantly, helping people express themselves in ways that text alone cannot. As online interactions continue to grow, the role of digital symbols will only become more significant.
Gaming & the language of symbols
Video games rely heavily on symbols to guide players, provide feedback, and create immersive experiences. From the earliest arcade games to modern open-world adventures, visual cues play a critical role in how games communicate information.
The evolution of gaming symbols
Older games had poor graphics compared to today’s games. This meant developers had to find simple, powerful symbols to convey certain information. For example, a red heart came to be the symbol for health. Some gaming worlds choose their own symbols, like Mario’s mushrooms. These visual shortcuts make moving through game worlds intuitive and effortless.
The psychology of colours and icons
Game designers carefully choose colours and imagery to bring out specific emotions and responses. Red often signals danger or urgency, like when your character is taking damage, while green indicates safety or progress, like finding a healing item. Symbols like arrows, glowing objects, and distinctive shapes help players navigate digital worlds intuitively, proving how essential visual language is in gaming.
The evolution of slot machine symbols in gaming
Slot machines are a prime example of how symbols have remained a core part of gaming culture. The earliest slot machines, developed in the late 19th century, featured simple but effective imagery: cherries, bells, and lucky sevens. These symbols quickly became iconic, shaping the look of casino gaming for decades.
The lasting appeal of classic symbols
Familiarity is always powerful. No matter how far gaming technology advances, there will always be a few familiar features, like those from traditional slot machines for example. Fruit, bars and wild cards keep a sense of nostalgia alive.
The influence of traditional symbols in online gaming
Casinos are one environment in which symbols have always been important. They play essential roles in games, from the numbers on a roulette wheel to suits on playing cards. You can also find them in the modern world of online casino slots, where the classic designs like cherries, bars and noughts and crosses are still in use. Timeless visuals combined with modern technology makes for a fresh yet familiar experience.
Why symbols will always be part of human culture
Symbols are more than just images. They’re a universal language that connects people across time and geography. Whether found in ancient carvings, modern branding, or digital media, they carry meaning in ways that words sometimes cannot.
The psychological impact of symbols
People form deep emotional connections to symbols. A national flag, a childhood logo, or a religious symbol can trigger powerful memories and emotions. They’re one of the simplest yet most powerful forms of communication. While they can lack specificity, their ability to resonate across generations is why they continue to shape cultural narratives.
Wrap-up
Symbols have always been at the centre of human expression. They’ve always shaped human culture, from ancient hieroglyphs to modern gaming interfaces. They’re powerful tools for communication because they transcend language barriers.
As games evolve, so too will their symbols. But, they will always carry the weight of their history and diverse connotations, whether it’s an apple or an ace of spades. Whether in media, branding, or interactive experiences, their presence in human culture remains stronger than ever.
