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What Is a Casino?

A casino is a place where people can gamble and play games of chance. They are typically built near hotels, restaurants, retail stores and cruise ships.

How Casinos Make Their Money

The main source of profit for casinos is gambling, especially slot machines and video poker. These games have a built-in statistical advantage for the casino and allow it to earn profits on each dollar bet.

They also offer free food, drinks and entertainment for their patrons. This entices them to return and helps to reduce the house edge.

Using Technology

Casinos use computers and other devices to keep track of their games and monitor the amount of money wagered on each hand. This includes chip tracking, where betting chips interact with electronic systems in the tables to ensure that players are not making more bets than the casino can afford; and roulette wheels that are electronically monitored for deviations from expected results.

Security

Casino security is an important concern because of the large amounts of currency handled within a casino. Both patrons and staff may be tempted to cheat or steal, in collusion or independently; most casinos have security measures to prevent this from happening.

Popular Games

Casinos offer a range of games, including roulette and craps, which are favored by both small and big bettors. Blackjack and baccarat are common, as are video poker and slot machines. These games are played at fixed odds, with an expected profit (the “vig” or rake”) for the casino.