A casino is a public place where people gather to play games of chance. Although the typical casino adds a variety of luxury amenities to attract patrons, such as restaurants, free drinks and stage shows, less lavish places that house gambling activities could still be called casinos. In addition to offering games, casinos make money by charging a “vig,” or “house advantage,” on each bet. This advantage is very small, usually no more than two percent, but over millions of bets it can amount to significant profits. Combined with other sources of income, such as admission fees and hotel stays, this revenue can finance a casino’s extravagant fountains, giant pyramids and towers and replicas of famous landmarks.
While most casino games are based on chance, some have a skill element that can improve players’ chances of winning. For example, blackjack players with perfect strategy can increase their winnings by reducing the house edge. Other games that require some level of skill include poker, baccarat and roulette. Casinos also offer a variety of video poker and slot machines.
The casino industry is regulated in most states, but there is a wide range of legal definitions. Some states prohibit casino-style games entirely, while others limit them to specific types of games, such as slots and video poker. Most of the country’s casinos are owned by major real estate and hotel chains. These companies have the deep pockets necessary to buy out mob-controlled operations and avoid federal antitrust prosecution. However, many gangsters continue to operate illegal gambling operations.
In 2005, Harrah’s Entertainment found that the typical casino gambler was a forty-six-year-old woman from a household with above-average income. Other studies have shown that about 23% of American adults visit a casino at least once a year.
Casinos use a variety of technology to monitor their games and patrons. Surveillance cameras provide a high-tech “eye in the sky” that allows security staff to watch every table, window and doorway. Computers monitor game results and adjust the machines to focus on suspicious patterns of play. This can alert dealers to cheating or tampering.
Casinos also use computers to track and reward high-volume players. The most frequent and highest-spending patrons receive free room and meal comps, as well as other gifts. These programs are similar to airline frequent-flyer programs. To take advantage of these offers, casino guests swipe a player’s card before each game session. The cards tally up points and give the patron access to other amenities, such as limo service, restaurant and show vouchers or airline tickets. Players can also earn comps by referring friends to the casino. This type of promotional program is a key component of a casino’s marketing strategy. It can help a casino develop a loyal customer base and attract new patrons. In addition, it can reduce the number of comps a player needs to pay for his or her next visit. This saves the casino money and keeps its customers happy.