A casino (also called a gambling house or a gaming hall) is an establishment where various games of chance are played. The games are usually regulated by law or by the gaming commission. Modern casinos add a variety of extras to attract customers, such as restaurants, free drinks and stage shows.
Casinos are a popular form of entertainment, and as such, they generate billions of dollars in profits every year. However, something about gambling (probably the presence of large amounts of money) encourages people to cheat or steal. To combat these temptations, casinos spend a lot of time and money on security.
While musical shows, lighted fountains and shopping centers may help draw customers in, most casinos are built around games of chance. Slot machines, blackjack, roulette, craps and keno account for the majority of casino profits. Card games like baccarat and trente et quarante are also common in some casinos.
The mathematical odds are always against game players, but casinos offer a variety of inducements to attract big bettors and keep them coming back. These include free spectacular entertainment, reduced-fare transportation and luxury living quarters. In addition, elaborate surveillance systems provide a “eye-in-the-sky” view of the casino floor. These are able to detect suspicious behavior and can focus on specific patrons. Despite these measures, some gamblers are still tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion with others or on their own. In order to prevent these activities, the casinos use a variety of surveillance techniques.